Gerberas are sun-loving plants and should be grown in locations that receive a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day.

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Because gerberas have a relatively passive root system, they do not compete strongly with other plants for nutrients. For this reason, it is best to grow them in dedicated garden beds, where they have space and access to the nutrients they require for healthy growth and flowering.

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Gerberas should not be planted near conifers, palms, or hibiscus, as these plants have aggressive root systems that can quickly dominate the soil, depriving gerberas of essential nutrients and stunting their growth.

 

Soil Preparation

Successful in-ground cultivation begins with well-prepared soil. Gerberas thrive in a light, well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Heavy clay or waterlogged soils should be avoided, as these conditions can lead to root rot and poor plant performance.

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To create an ideal growing environment:

• Loosen the soil to a depth of approximately 25–30 cm to encourage healthy root development.

• Incorporate organic matter, such as well-rotted compost, coarse sand, or fine pine bark, to improve aeration and drainage.

• Avoid using manures or lime-based materials, as they can make the soil too alkaline and adversely affect nutrient availability.

• Raised beds are recommended in areas prone to poor drainage, helping to ensure excess water can move freely away from the roots.
   

Regularly refreshing the soil with organic material and maintaining its structure will promote long-term plant health and continuous flower production.

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Planting and Spacing

When planting gerberas in the ground, proper placement is essential for healthy growth and maximum flowering.

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• Planting Depth: Position each plant so that the crown sits just above the soil surface. Planting too deeply can cause crown rot, while planting too shallowly can expose roots to excessive heat.

• Spacing: Allow 30–40 cm between plants to ensure adequate air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal disease. This spacing also provides room for each plant to form a healthy, symmetrical clump.

• Watering-In: After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Avoid overwatering during this stage—moist but not soggy soil is ideal.

• Mulching: Apply a light layer of mulch such as straw, bark chips, or lupin mulch around (but not over) the crown to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
   

By ensuring correct spacing and planting depth, growers can maintain vigorous, long-lived plants with strong flower production throughout the season.

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Watering

Gerberas grown in the ground require less frequent watering than those grown in containers, as soil retains moisture more effectively. However, they are sensitive to excessive moisture and do not tolerate “wet feet,” which can lead to root rot. The surface soil should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged.

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Using a quality soil moisture tester can help determine when watering is necessary and prevent overwatering. During periods of extreme heat, gerberas may show signs of stress such as wilting leaves or drooping flower shoots. A light watering after sunset will usually allow plants to recover overnight, showing no visible stress the following day.

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Fertilising

If the soil has been enriched with compost or animal manure before planting, additional fertiliser applications are generally required only every six weeks. Use a balanced, general-purpose fertiliser that is low in nitrogen, moderate in phosphorus, and high in potassium (N.P.K) with added trace elements. Apply approximately one heaped teaspoon around each plant, keeping the fertiliser clear of the crown to prevent burning or rot.

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Mulching

Mulching is essential in Perth’s hot climate to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Apply a light layer of organic mulch—such as lupin mulch, straw, or bark chips—but ensure it is kept well away from the crown to prevent moisture buildup and rot.