As a plant that comes from the tropics, Gerbera is not winter-hardy. Although the pot flower appreciates being outdoors in summer, in winter Gerbera needs to be kept frost-free over the winter. There is only one variety that is partially hardy.
Are Gerbera plants hardy?
Are gerberas hardy? Gerbera plants are generally not hardy and should be kept at temperatures above 20 degrees. In winter they must be hibernated frost-free and in a bright place. Only the “Garvinea” variety is partially winter-hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to -5 degrees, but requires additional winter protection.
Outside in the summer – indoors in the winter
Gerbera thrives best at temperatures above 20 degrees. The potted plants should only be kept outside when it is not colder than 15 degrees.
Treat your gerbera to a summer holiday on the terrace or balcony from the end of May to September.
Before the temperatures drop too much in autumn, the pots should be brought into the house. Gerbera from the garden bed is dug up and overwintered in a pot.
Overwinter in the right location
Like all potted flowers that are not hardy, the gerbera needs a bright, frost-free and dry place in the house over the winter:
- Cool Hallway Windows
- Bright basement windows
- Frost-free staircases
- Windows in unheated rooms
The temperature for wintering should be around 15 degrees. During the winter, the gerbera is watered only slightly and not fertilized.
From the end of April, the plant gets used to higher temperatures on an hourly basis. Place them in the flower window or on the balcony for a short time when the outside temperature has risen to at least 15 to 18 degrees during the day.
Take gerberas outdoors from the end of May
Gerberas in pots can be brought back onto the terrace or balcony from the end of May. Then no more night frosts are to be expected.
Only “Garvinea” is conditionally winterproof
There is a type of gerbera that is well suited for keeping in the garden because it is hardy - but only to a limited extent. “Garvinea” comes in many colors and shapes.
This relatively new breed can tolerate temperatures as low as minus five degrees. Since it often gets colder in our latitudes, a sheltered location should be chosen. This gerbera also needs additional winter protection outdoors.
Tips & Tricks
You can try overwintering your gerbera in the flower window in winter. With a bit of luck, the houseplant will produce new flowers all year round. The plant will then be exhausted sooner and must be replaced.
