potted_plant
Gerbera care requirements
water
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged; allow top inch to dry between waterings. Avoid wetting the crown.
soil
Well-draining, fertile soil amended with compost; slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Raised beds or containers improve drainage.
light
Full sun, requiring 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for vigorous growth and abundant blooms.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Gerbera
- fiber_manual_recordFuzzy grey-brown mould on flowers, leaves, or stems
- fiber_manual_recordWater-soaked spots that turn brown and mushy
- fiber_manual_recordBlighted flower buds that fail to open
help
Common causes in Gerbera
Caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea (grey mould), which thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor air circulation, often spreading rapidly on damaged or ageing plant tissue.
healing
How to treat botrytis blight in Gerbera
Remove and destroy all affected plant material immediately, improve airflow around the plant, and apply a fungicide labelled for Botrytis if the infection is spreading.
shield
Preventing botrytis blight in Gerbera
Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, water at soil level, deadhead spent flowers promptly, and ensure good ventilation, especially in humid weather.