I've been growing gerbera daisies in containers for a couple of months with okay results. I recently noticed that one of the plants has developed brown spots on the leaves, mostly toward the edges, but not right on the edges. The spots aren't deep into the leaves, just appears to be on the very surface of the leaf. This plant also isn't growing very tall stems on the flowers--maybe only 3-4" at most. They were fertilized recently, following the package instructions carefully. Did I overdo it, or is it just testing me? |
Gerbera daisies are fussy about watering, so the spots you describe might be a result of splashing water on the leaves. Perhaps your plant really is testing you! Gerbera jamesonii or Transvaal daisy is native to South Africa and loves growing indoors. If grown outdoors in cold climates such as yours, consider them annuals, or you can pot them up when the weather cools and bring them indoors. Gerbera's thrive in full sun and rich soil with excellent drainage. They prefer a thorough watering and then dry soil, followed by a flooding again. The plants need frequent feeding during the growing season and will produce new leaves and flowers if the old leaves and flowers are pinched off regularly. Gerbera daisies like the nightime temperature to be about 60F degrees, and the daytime temperature about 75F. The plant will take full morning sunshine, but appreciates some afternoon shade. I'd cut away the affected leaves to encourage the growth of healthy new foliage. |