Quick notes
- Using a small spoon or tweezers, gently scrape the seeds from the seed head and collect them in a small container.
- Spread the seeds on a paper towel in a well-ventilated area and allow them to air dry for a day or two.
- Place the dried seeds in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to sow them.
Gerbera daisies, with their vibrant colors and cheerful faces, are a beloved addition to any garden. But did you know you can propagate these beauties from their own flowers? That’s right, you can start new gerbera plants from seed, and it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. This guide will walk you through the process of how to grow gerbera from flower, revealing the secrets to successful propagation and a flourishing gerbera garden.
Getting Started: Choosing the Right Flower
The first step in propagating gerbera daisies from flower is selecting the right bloom. Look for a healthy, vibrant flower that’s fully opened and free from any signs of disease or damage. The ideal time for this task is during the summer months when the plants are actively growing.
The Art of Harvesting Seeds
Once you’ve chosen your flower, it’s time to harvest the seeds. This process is simple and straightforward:
1. Wait for the flower to fade: Allow the flower to naturally wither and dry. This usually takes about a week or two after the flower has fully opened.
2. Gently remove the petals: Carefully peel back the petals, revealing the seed head in the center.
3. Collect the seeds: The seeds are tiny and brown, resembling miniature grains of rice. Using a small spoon or tweezers, gently scrape the seeds from the seed head and collect them in a small container.
Preparing the Seeds for Germination
Before you sow the seeds, there are a few steps to ensure optimal germination:
1. Clean the seeds: Remove any debris or flower parts from the seeds using a fine-mesh sieve.
2. Dry the seeds: Spread the seeds on a paper towel in a well-ventilated area and allow them to air dry for a day or two. This helps prevent mold and fungal growth.
3. Store the seeds: Place the dried seeds in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to sow them.
Selecting the Right Growing Medium
The success of your gerbera propagation depends on choosing the right growing medium. Gerbera daisies thrive in well-draining, airy soil. Here are some suitable options:
- Seed starting mix: This is a lightweight and porous mix specifically designed for germinating seeds.
- Potting mix: Choose a mix that’s labeled for flowering plants and contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
- DIY mix: Combine equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite for a custom blend.
Sowing the Seeds: A Gentle Touch
Now, it’s time to sow your precious gerbera seeds:
1. Fill seed trays or pots: Fill your chosen containers with the growing medium, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Gently moisten the soil with water.
2. Sow the seeds: Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Don’t bury them too deep, as they need light to germinate. A light dusting of soil is sufficient.
3. Water gently: Mist the seeds with a fine-mist sprayer to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
4. Cover the container: Cover the seed tray or pots with a clear plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment.
5. Place in a warm location: Keep the seeds in a warm spot with temperatures between 70-75°F.
Patience is Key: Germination and Care
Gerbera seeds can take anywhere from 10 to 21 days to germinate. During this time, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent level of moisture and warmth. Check the soil daily and mist it if it feels dry.
Thinning and Transplanting
Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, it’s time to thin them. This ensures that each seedling has enough space to grow. Carefully remove the weaker seedlings, leaving the strongest ones spaced a few inches apart.
When the seedlings are a couple of inches tall, they’re ready for transplanting. Gently remove them from the seed tray or pots, being careful not to damage the roots. Plant them in individual pots filled with fresh potting mix.
Nurturing Your Gerbera Plants
Gerbera daisies need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water the plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Feeding Your Flowers: Fertilizer and Blooms
To encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms, fertilize your gerbera plants every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Enjoying Your Gerbera Garden
With proper care and attention, your gerbera plants will reward you with a vibrant display of colorful blooms. Enjoy their beauty in your garden or bring a touch of sunshine indoors by placing a few potted gerberas in your home.
From Seed to Bloom: A Rewarding Journey
Growing gerbera daisies from flower is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It allows you to witness the miracle of life unfold and enjoy the beauty of these cheerful blooms. With a little patience and care, you can transform a simple flower into a flourishing gerbera garden that will bring joy for years to come.
Questions You May Have
1. Can I use gerbera seeds from a store-bought flower?
Yes, you can. However, store-bought gerberas are often hybrids, which means the offspring might not be exactly like the parent plant. But you can still enjoy the thrill of growing your own gerbera daisies from seed.
2. How often do I need to water my gerbera seedlings?
Water the seedlings regularly, but don’t overwater. Check the soil moisture daily and mist it if it feels dry.
3. When should I fertilize my gerbera plants?
Fertilize your gerbera plants every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
4. Why are my gerbera plants not blooming?
Several factors can affect blooming, including insufficient sunlight, lack of nutrients, and improper watering. Ensure your plants receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, fertilize them regularly, and water them consistently.
5. Can I propagate gerbera daisies from cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate gerbera daisies from cuttings. However, this method is less successful than seed propagation. To propagate from cuttings, take a stem with several leaves and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moistened rooting mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it develops roots.
