Gerbera (Gerbera daisy)
Gerbera × hybrida
Showy, daisy-like flowers in many colors; grown as ornamental perennials or container plants, preferring bright light, well-draining soil, moderate watering, and cool to mild temperatures.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Gerbera daisies are non-toxic to cats and dogs according to major pet-poison databases; skin contact may rarely cause mild irritation in sensitive people.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Provide bright light with at least 4–6 hours of morning or filtered sun daily. Indoors place near an east- or south-facing window with a sheer curtain; avoid harsh afternoon sun that can scorch leaves and flowers.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm (¾ in) of soil is dry. Allow excess to drain and never leave the plant sitting in water. Reduce frequency in cool weather; consistent moisture without waterlogging promotes steady flowering.
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity (40–60%). Use a pebble tray or humidifier in dry homes and group plants to raise ambient humidity; avoid keeping leaves wet for long periods to prevent fungal issues.
Temperature
Thrives at 15–24°C (59–75°F). Keep above 10°C (50°F) and avoid prolonged exposure above 27°C (80°F) to reduce stress and prevent bud drop.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing, soft leaves and wilting
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage leading to root rot
Solution: Reduce watering, improve drainage, repot into fresh, porous mix and trim rotten roots; allow surface to dry before watering.
Powdery or downy fungal growth on leaves
Cause: High humidity, poor air circulation, or prolonged leaf wetness
Solution: Improve air flow, water at the soil level, remove affected leaves, apply appropriate fungicide if needed.
Bud drop or poor bloom set
Cause: Temperature extremes, inconsistent moisture, or low light
Solution: Stabilize temperatures (avoid >27°C or <10°C), keep watering consistent and increase bright light exposure.
Aphids, thrips or whiteflies on flowers and foliage
Cause: Outdoors or greenhouse conditions and stressed plants
Solution: Blast with water, remove clustered pests, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil and monitor regularly.
Leggy growth and reduced flowering
Cause: Insufficient light or overcrowding
Solution: Move to brighter site, pinch back weak shoots, thin crowded plants and fertilize lightly during growing season.
✂️How to Propagate Gerbera (Gerbera daisy)
Division: in early spring or after flowering, lift mature clumps and gently separate crowns ensuring each division has healthy roots and at least one growing point; replant with fresh, well-draining mix and water. Seed: sow fresh seeds thinly on surface of moist, sterile seed mix, press lightly, keep at 18–21°C (64–70°F) with bright light; germination takes 2–4 weeks. Harden off seedlings before transplanting.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Asteraceae
Native to: Derived from species native to southern and tropical Africa, with contributions from Madagascar and Asia.
Natural Habitat: Open grasslands and light scrub on well-drained soils with seasonal rainfall. Plants experience bright sun, good air circulation and dry periods between rains.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Provide bright, cool conditions and reduce watering; keep above 10°C (50°F). Remove spent flowers and avoid heavy feeding during dormancy.
Spring
Increase watering and begin regular balanced feeding as growth resumes. Divide crowded clumps and refresh topsoil for vigorous spring flowering.
Summer
Protect from hot afternoon sun and maintain consistent moisture. Mulch outdoors to conserve moisture and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
Fall
Gradually reduce watering and stop fertilizing as temperatures cool. Prepare containers for cooler weather and move plants to sheltered spots if needed.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Gerbera daisies?
Water when the top 2 cm (¾ in) of soil is dry, typically every 3–7 days depending on temperature and pot size.
Do Gerbera daisies like full sun?
They prefer bright light with morning sun or filtered light; avoid hot afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Can I grow Gerbera indoors year-round?
Yes—provide bright light, cool to moderate temps (15–24°C), moderate humidity and consistent moisture without waterlogging.
How do I get more blooms on my Gerbera?
Ensure bright light, regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, deadhead spent flowers and maintain even moisture.
Are Gerbera daisies poisonous to pets?
No, Gerbera daisies are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though ingestion may cause mild stomach upset.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025