Bloom Duration

• The duration a Gerbera daisy stays in bloom depends on the growing conditions the plant experiences. Gerberas bloom throughout the year in the greenhouse. Gerberas in the garden can continue to bloom until October, in the best growing conditions. As houseplants, Gerberas do not thrive and only bloom for about six weeks.
  
  

Growing Conditions

• Maintaining the best growing conditions is an effective way to encourage extended blooming for Gerberas. Gerberas grow best in well-drained soil that contains at least 50 percent peat. They need regular watering and tolerate slightly dry soil between waterings. Place Gerbera plants in a location that receives bright light. High light intensity helps to increase blossom production. Fertilize Gerberas twice a month to encourage flower growth. Auburn University recommends a slow-release 14-14-14 fertilizer or a 15-16-17, low-ammonium fertilizer.
  
  

Encouraging New Blooms

• Each Gerbera blossom can live up to four weeks. Pruning old blooms as soon as they die encourages the growth of new blossoms. Remove dead blooms with sharp gardening shears to avoid excessive damage to the plant. In addition, remove dead leaves to discourage disease and pests. Gerberas need repotting in the spring, and prefer a soil pH between neutral and mildly acid. Avoid exposing blooming Gerberas to temperatures that exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit or drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
  
  

Troubleshooting

• Poor light conditions and inadequate nutrients affect bloom production in Gerberas. Additionally, disease and pests can weaken the plant and even kill it. Make sure the Gerbera receives adequate air circulation, especially during excessively humid weather. Diseases like Botrytis and powdery mildew thrive when Gerberas experience stagnant air or inconsistent watering. Gerbera daisies are susceptible to insects like thrips, aphids, spider mites and white flies.
  
  

Overwintering Gerberas

• Gerberas typically grow as annuals in outdoor gardens. Gerberas can tolerate mild winters, but require heavy mulch to protect them from low temperatures. Gardeners should divide overwintered Gerberas in the spring, to propagate new plants and increase blossoms.
  
  

Cut Blossoms

• Cut Gerbera blossoms are long-lasting and may live up to 14 days. They should only receive indirect light and prefer resting in shallow water. Trimming the stems and changing the vase's water every few days also extends the life of Gerbera blossoms.