Gerberas are plants native to southern Africa and are herbaceousas they have no woody stems. These species are recognized to be among the most popular in the world. They bring a unique beauty to the gardens. Find out in this article how to take care of it at home!
These plants grow in the shape of a rosette, i.e. with all the leaves arranged in a circular orientation and with symmetrical measurements. Apart from this, it lends itself to being grown in the ground or in pots because its dimensions are not excessive.
Characteristics of the gerbera plant
Gerberas are characterized by having rhizomes, which are stems that grow underground and help store essential nutrients. In addition to that, from that side the roots detach and the leaves begin to appear.
These types of plants have a single green stem and the roots can reach up to 1 meter deep. On the other hand, the central part of its flowers can be light or black shades.
These species are very resistant, which is why each branch is kept in optimal conditions throughout the year. In addition, they have a precise period to flower, which is from early spring to late autumn.
The flowers are usually about 18 centimeters long in size. and they are the great attraction of these plants. They can be red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, blue or white.
In this plant the flowers can be single or double. In the first option no petal covers another and in the second one you can find two layers of petals together.
Gerbera care tips
Gerbera plants are one of best alternatives to beautify indoor places. However, it needs the care described below to maintain its vitality.
1. Temperature and light are key factors
Gerberas are plants that come from a tropical areaTherefore, the most appropriate temperature is between 17 and 24 degrees Celsius. In addition to this, they should never be left exposed to a climate below 13 degrees Celsius.
This type of plant needs light to grow flowers, but it’s important that it doesn’t shine directly on it. For this reason, it is best planted in a location that has shade.
2. You have to condition the soil
Gerbera plants must be in soil that has a lot of organic matter, since this element is what provides them with the right nutrients for their well-being. Furthermore, the soil should be evenly distributed so that the roots do not suffocate and have a good yield.
In addition, it is important to apply fertilizers rich in potassium so that the soil remains healthy, the plants are optimally nourished and a large number of flowers grow.
3. Humidity and measured watering are required
These plant species require development in areas that maintain good levels of humidity. For this reason, cookware should be away from objects that concentrate excessive heat and dry the environment.
Furthermore, it is essential that watering is constant, but not excessive. The roots of this plant are delicate and can rot. For this reason, it is necessary to have effective drainage so that the water circulates at a good rate and there is no stagnation.
It is better than during the seasons with moderate temperatures watering is done every 3 days. Instead, on days of constant heat, tillage must be carried out daily to prevent the soil from drying out.
4. Pruning is important
All types of plants, at some point, can host one or the other herb. Gerberas are no exception.
Because of this, it is necessary to monitor them frequently to notice the leaves in bad condition in time. In this case they are carefully pruned and the spread of the mushrooms is avoided.
How to plant gerberas at home?
First of all, to plant gerberas indoors, the seedbed must be placed in a sunny place. Then, when they have sprouted they must be transferred to the corresponding pot and wait for them to start flowering in early spring.
The pot used must be large, so that no part of the plant is harmed during the growth phase. Likewise, when applying the earth, a 1 meter hole must be made so that this element is well seated.
It is important to keep in mind that the substrate used inside the pot should be as smooth as possible. This prevents stones from blocking any part of the drainage.
The best way to plant a gerbera plant is inside a pot.. It is an object that can be moved from side to side in those moments when inclement weather starts to appear.
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