Gerbera daisies (Gerbera jamesonii) are prized for their vibrant, long-lasting blooms, making them popular additions to summer gardens. Though technically tender perennials native to South Africa, most gardeners treat them as annuals because they cannot survive freezing temperatures. Their natural hardiness zone typically begins around USDA Zone 8 or 9, meaning they require protection in cooler climates to survive winter. Successfully preserving these plants until the next growing season involves carefully managing their environment to mimic favorable conditions indoors.
Preparing Gerbera Daisies for Winter
The decision to move Gerbera daisies inside must be made proactively, ideally when nighttime temperatures consistently fall below 45°F (7°C) but before any hard frost occurs. Freezing conditions can severely damage the plant’s crown, the central growth point. Before moving the container indoors, cut back the foliage significantly.
This pruning should remove most leaves and spent flower stalks, leaving only one to two inches of growth above the soil line. Removing this material helps reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and fungal diseases developing in the lower light and humidity indoors.
A thorough inspection for common garden pests is necessary before introducing the plant to an indoor collection. Check the undersides of any remaining leaves and the soil surface for insects like aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites. Treat any detected infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil while the plant is still outside to prevent pests from spreading rapidly to other houseplants.
Overwintering Method: Cool Dormant Storage
For a low-maintenance solution, forcing the Gerbera daisy into semi-dormancy is an effective overwintering strategy. This method relies on providing a cool, stable environment where the plant’s metabolism slows significantly. The ideal storage temperature is between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C), often found in unheated garages, cool basements, or enclosed porches.
Light is not a major factor in this environment, and the plant can be kept in low light or near-dark conditions. Managing the water supply is the most important factor. The plant requires only enough moisture to prevent the root ball from completely drying out, meaning watering sparingly once every few weeks.
Overwatering is the primary cause of failure, as cool temperatures inhibit the roots’ ability to absorb moisture, leading quickly to root rot. Check the stored plants periodically for signs of mold or a soft crown, indicating a moisture problem. If rot is evident, move the plant to a drier, slightly warmer location to allow the soil to dry out.
Overwintering Method: Active Indoor Growth
The alternative approach is to maintain active growth, allowing the Gerbera daisy to continue growing and potentially blooming throughout the winter. Since the plant remains metabolically active, this method requires a more involved and consistent care regimen. Providing adequate light is the most significant requirement, which is often difficult to achieve naturally during winter.
The plant needs bright, direct light, ideally from a south-facing window. This must be supplemented with high-output LED or fluorescent grow lights positioned a few inches above the foliage for 12 to 14 hours daily. Standard household temperatures, between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C), are suitable.
Low humidity in heated homes can stress the plants, necessitating humidity trays or a nearby humidifier. Watering must be managed carefully; allow the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly before thoroughly rewatering. Actively growing daisies benefit from a highly diluted liquid fertilizer applied once a month. Consistent monitoring for pests is paramount, as the warm environment encourages the rapid reproduction of insects like spider mites and mealybugs.
Reintroducing Plants Outdoors in Spring
Regardless of the overwintering method, the transition back outdoors requires careful planning to prevent environmental shock. Movement should only begin after the danger of the final frost has passed and consistent nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C). The initial reintroduction phase is called “hardening off,” which gradually acclimates the plant to the intensity of outdoor sunlight and wind.
This process should span seven to fourteen days. Start by placing the plant outside in a sheltered, fully shaded location for only one or two hours on the first day. Over the following days, slowly increase the duration of outdoor exposure and progressively move the plant into areas that receive more direct sunlight and wind.
Once the plant is fully hardened off, move it to its permanent summer location. At this time, repot the daisy into fresh, well-draining soil and resume a regular, balanced feeding schedule to support vigorous new growth.