Gerbera is usually grown as a houseplant or in a pot on the balcony or terrace. However, the plant also cuts a fine figure in the flower bed. What you should consider when planting gerberas.
How to plant and propagate gerberas?
Choose a sunny, slightly shady location and loose, water-draining garden soil for Gerberas. Plant them in a flowerpot in spring or outdoors from the end of May without covering the root crown. Propagate gerberas by seeds, root division, or cuttings.
Which location does Gerbera prefer?
Gerbera has its home in the tropics. It therefore needs a lot of light and air. It likes a sunny location, but should not get direct midday sun. Find a place in the garden where it is somewhat shady at midday or shade the flower window.
What should the potting soil be like?
Garden soil should be loose, arable and well-drained. When planting in a pot or container, some sand or perlite ensure permeability. Soil that is too lean is refined with a little ripe compost.
When is the best time to plant?
Gerberas are best planted in a flower pot in spring. If you want to care for gerberas in the flowerbed, you can plant them directly outdoors from the end of May.
How to plant gerberas correctly?
Don't put the plant too deep in the ground. The upper part of the root crown is not covered.
When does the gerbera bloom?
In the open field, the gerbera blooms from May to October if the location and care are right. On the windowsill it blooms continuously except for a short winter break. There are even cases where plants developed new flowers throughout the year.
How is Gerbera propagated?
Propagation occurs either via
- Seeds
- Root division
- Cuttings
You can get seeds from your gerbera yourself. It is easier to divide the roots of older plants in late autumn and keep the sections in a glass of water until the first small root shoots appear. They can then be transplanted into a flower pot in spring. Cutting cuttings is recommended for propagating rare varieties.
Is Gerbera hardy?
With the exception of the “Garvinea” variety, Gerbera is not hardy and must be kept indoors over the winter.
Tips & Tricks
If you want to grow gerberas from seeds, make sure the seeds are fresh. Gerbera seeds lose their ability to germinate after a short time.