Gerberas known as Gerbera jamesonii are one of the most popular and brightest flowers in the gardens and homes worldwide. This makes them a favourite among beginners as well as experienced gardeners, their lively blooms varying from hot pink to yellow sunshine. If you’re considering having gerbera plants for sale in your home or garden, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information to buy, grow and care for these charming flowers.
Buying Gerbera Plants
When purchasing gerbera plants Australia, there are few things to consider so that you get healthy vibrant flowers.
- Choosing the Right Variety
There many types of gerbera daisies each having an array of characteristics that makes it distinct. Some common varieties include:
Gerberas Garvin a- known for being disease resistant and blooming continuously from spring until fall.
Gerbesr Revolution-a variety with large size strong petals commonly used in bouquets,
Gerbera Jamesanii- The original type offering wide range of colours with big blossoms.
- Where to Buy
You can obtain gerbera plants from various sources:
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers-These are great places to buy because you can see the plants and choose the healthiest ones.
Online Retailers –There are many online sellers specializing in gerbera. Make sure you buy from well-known vendors who offer healthy plants.
Farmers’ Markets– Local farmers’ markets usually have unique, good condition gerberas for sale.
- Inspecting The Plants
When buying gerbera plants, inspect them carefully for signs of health. These include:
Healthy Leaves: The leaves should be green and they should not have spots, discoloration or wilting.
Strong Stems: Stems must also be strong, upright; it is not worse if they lean down a little bit.
Bud Condition: You will want to find several buds on a plant as it gives us hope that this particular plant is healthy enough to yield more flowers.
Root System: If possible, check the roots for their color (white) and their form (healthy) as opposed to brownish or softness feeling.
Planting and Growing Gerbera Daisies
Once you have bought your gerbera plants for sale, it is time to put them into the ground. Proper planting and care are crucial for ensuring your gerberas thrive.
Ideal Growing Conditions
The following are ideal conditions that gerbera daisies prefer:
Sunlight: Gerberas require plenty of sunlight. They do well in full sun but can tolerate partial shade too.
Soil: Well-drained soil is important for growing gerberas. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels between 6.0 – 6.5.
Gerberas cannot survive in extremely high or low temperatures. The ideal temperature for gerberas is 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). They should be protected from frost and excess heat.
Planting Gerberas
Here are the steps you should take when planting your gerbera daisies:
Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and mix in organic compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
Plant the Gerbera: Place the plant in the soil, make sure crown runs few millimeters above ground level to save it from rotting.
Fill and Water: Fill soil into hole and gently pack it down around plants. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Watering and Fertilizing
Proper watering and fertilizing are key to healthy gerbera plants:
Watering: Keep moist but not waterlogged soil at all times, water at base of plant so as not wet leaves which could encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilizing: Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every other week during growing season, beware over-fertilization will lead excessive foliage production thus less flowering.
Pruning and Deadheading
Pruning and deadheading help promote continuous blooming:
Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep plant healthy as well as encourage new growths.
Deadheading: cut stem above its base where flowers have died; this will lead to higher production of flowers by plant through stimulation.
Caring for Indoor Gerbera Daisies
Gerberas grow perfectly well indoors too; here’s how they should be taken care of when indoors:
Light: Place your plant where there is indirect bright light. The best locations for them are south or west-facing windowsills.
Humidity: Average humidity is preferred for these gerberas. In case the house is too dry, it’s recommended to use a humidity tray or spray some water around.
Temperature: A room temperature of 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) is ideal for indoor gerberas.
Watering: Water only when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Ensure that the pots have drainage holes to avoid stagnation of water.
