Want to find the secrets behind How to Grow Bigger Flowers in Gerbera? Keep on reading to know the best tips!
You must have admired those colossal Gerbera blooms at flower shows or gardening centers, haven’t you? Now, what if you could replicate that spectacle right in your own garden? Brace yourself for the garden transformation of the year! If you’ve been nurturing Gerbera plants but can’t seem to get those lush, massive blooms, then don’t worry! Here are the best secrets on How to Grow Bigger Flowers in Gerbera!
Fantastic Gerbera Daisy Display Ideas
The Science Behind Bigger Flowers in Plants
The size of blooms in flowering plants is influenced by various factors, including genetics, environmental conditions, and cultural practices. While genetic factors play a significant role in determining the potential size of blooms, there are certain strategies you can employ to encourage larger blooms.
It’s important to note that not all flowering plants are genetically predisposed to produce large blooms. Each plant species has its own growth habits and characteristics, so managing expectations based on the natural size of the blooms is crucial.
PRO Tips and Tricks for Growing Bigger Onions
Additionally, while the techniques mentioned above can promote larger blooms, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid excessive intervention, as it may negatively impact plant health.
Ultimately, by providing appropriate growing conditions, nutrition, and care, you can optimize the potential for larger blooms in your flowering plants.
How to Grow Bigger Flowers in Gerbera
1. Selecting Healthy Plants
Start with healthy Gerbera plants from a reputable source. Choose plants with strong, green foliage and no signs of pests or diseases.
Healthy plants are more likely to produce bigger and better blooms.
2. Provide Adequate Light
Gerberas thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them in a location where they receive at least 6-8 hours of bright, filtered sunlight each day.
Insufficient light can result in smaller blooms and weaker growth.
Top Tips on Pruning a Jade Plant to Make it Bushier and Bigger
3. Optimal Temperature and Humidity
Gerberas prefer moderate temperatures between 60-85°F (15-28°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold.
Additionally, maintain a relative humidity level of around 40-60% to provide a favorable environment for flower development.
4. Pick the Right Growing Medium
To promote the growth of bigger flowers in Gerbera daisies, it’s important to provide them with a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture while allowing excess water to drain away. Here’s a suggested potting mix recipe for Gerbera daisies:
Ingredients:
- 1 part peat moss
- 1 part perlite or vermiculite
- 1 part well-aged compost or composted cow manure
- 1 part garden soil or loamy soil
5. Adequate Watering
Water Gerberas consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not overly wet. Water deeply and allow excess water to drain out from the bottom of the pot.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. It’s best to water the plants in the morning to allow the foliage to dry before evening.
How To Water Plants + 5 Watering Mistakes You’re Doing
6. Fertilization
To promote bigger blooms in Gerbera daisies, follow these steps:
- As the Gerbera daisies start to develop flower buds, switch to a fertilizer blend that is higher in phosphorus and potassium to support bloom development. Look for a water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-20-20 or similar. Apply it every 7-10 days during the blooming period, after diluting it to 1/4 of its strength. Remember, the key here is to feed the plants frequently.
- Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the proper dilution ratio and application method.
- Water the plants before and after fertilizing to ensure the nutrients are properly distributed and to prevent any potential burn from concentrated fertilizer.
7. Deadhead Spent Blooms
Remove faded or spent flowers regularly by gently pinching them off near the base of the stem. Deadheading redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new blooms instead of seed production, resulting in a continuous flowering cycle and potentially larger flowers.
8. Pruning and Staking
Gerberas can benefit from occasional pruning to remove damaged or diseased foliage. Additionally, staking taller varieties can help support the flower stems and prevent them from flopping over, allowing the flowers to display prominently.
9. Protect from Pests and Diseases
Monitor Gerberas for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with appropriate insecticides or employ natural pest control methods.
Additionally, avoid overwatering and promote good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
39 Bizarre Pest Control Remedies and Ideas for Gardeners
10. Overwintering Care
In regions with cold winters, Gerberas are often grown as annuals or potted plants. If you want to overwinter them, bring the plants indoors before the first frost and place them in a cool, well-lit area.
Reduce watering and fertilization during the dormant period, allowing the plants to rest before their active growth resumes in spring.
Unconventional Ways to Make Gerbera Flowers Bigger
11. Use Fulvic Acid
Fulvic acid is a naturally occurring organic material found in humus, the decayed organic matter in soil. Known for its benefits in enhancing nutrient uptake, improving soil structure, and stimulating plant growth.
Fulvic acid enhances the nutrient absorption capabilities of plants by making it easier for minerals to pass through cell membranes. This could potentially lead to larger, fuller blooms due to better nutrient uptake.
How to Top Pepper Plants for Bigger Harvest
Use a fulvic acid supplement that is specifically designed for flowering plants, typically at a concentration of 0.5-1%. For best results, apply during the growing season, especially during the pre-flowering and flowering stages.
12. Use Mycorrhizal Fungi
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, aiding in nutrient and water absorption. This not only enhances the overall health of the plant but also allows for optimal flower growth and size.
The best time to introduce mycorrhizal fungi is during planting or repotting, as direct contact with the roots is essential for mycorrhizal colonization. Mix 1-2 teaspoons in the growing medium per pot, water well, and wait for the results!
Observe your Gerbera plants to gauge the effectiveness of the treatment. You can adjust your care routine based on how well the plants respond to the mycorrhizal fungi.
13. Go for Boron and Molybdenum
Boron is crucial for cell division and is essential for flower and seed development. It helps in the efficient uptake of nutrients and enhances the plant’s water absorption capabilities. In the case of Gerberas, a deficiency in boron may lead to smaller, less vibrant blooms.
Molybdenum plays a role in the fixation of nitrogen from the soil, helping to enhance overall plant growth and vigor. A molybdenum-boosted plant is likely to exhibit better flower growth.
How to Keep Gerbera Daisies Blooming | 14 Best Tricks
Dosage and Timing
- Boron: A concentration of 0.2 to 1.0 ppm in the soil is generally sufficient for most plants, including Gerberas.
- Molybdenum: A lighter touch is required, with an ideal concentration of 0.01 to 0.05 ppm in the soil.
- Timing: Apply these micronutrients during the growing season, particularly during the pre-flowering and flowering stages.
Caution: Excessive amounts of boron or molybdenum can be toxic to plants, leading to reduced growth or even death.
Big Flower Gerbera Varieties
The best trick is to pick the plant which offers the largest blooms! Here are some Gerbera daisy types and varieties known for producing relatively larger flowers:
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Mega Revolution’: This variety is known for its exceptionally large flowers, reaching up to 5 inches in diameter. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors and has long, sturdy stems.
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Mega Revolution Mix’: A mix of ‘Mega Revolution’ Gerbera daisies, this selection offers an assortment of large-flowered varieties in various colors, including pink, orange, red, and yellow.
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Jaguar’: ‘Jaguar’ Gerberas produce large, fully double flowers with a distinctive appearance. The blooms can measure around 4 to 5 inches in diameter and are available in a range of vibrant colors.
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Sensation Mix’: This mix features Gerbera daisies with large, striking flowers in a diverse array of colors, such as red, pink, yellow, and orange. The flowers can reach sizes of around 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Giant Double’: As the name suggests, this variety produces large, double-layered flowers that can reach sizes of approximately 4 to 5 inches in diameter. It is available in various colors and has a long blooming period.
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Mammoth Mix’: ‘Mammoth Mix’ Gerberas produce large flowers with a mix of vibrant colors. The blooms can measure around 3 to 4 inches in diameter and are known for their sturdy stems.
- Gerbera jamesonii ‘Regal Mix’: This mix contains Gerbera daisies with large, showy flowers in a range of regal colors, including deep purples, rich pinks, and royal reds. The blooms can reach sizes of around 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
