TO GROW GERBERAS

Evening Post, Volume CXVI, Issue 65, 14 September 1933, Page 20

TO GROW GERBERAS

FROM SEED OR DIVISION

These beautiful flowers are not really difficult to. raise from seed, provided always that the seed is fresh, for it soon loses its power of germination. The seed should be sown as soon as ripe in well-drained seed boxes of friable sandy soil. Place the boxes where . there is not an excess of sun. The earth should be kept continually moist during the process of germination, and this will be more easily done if a ecrtnin amount of iino manure be mixed with it and scattered upon the surface.

Seed may be sown at.any season of Ihe year, but if done during cold wea : ther the boxes should be covered with a sheet of glass. As soon as the seedlings are large: enough to handle, prick them.out in a sheltered spot—in another seed box is a good plau—^and leave ! them there untilthey are strong enough to ,brave the elements* in their permanent position. Gerberas may also be propagated by division of established plants, and this method is the one usually adopted, as it is more reliable and quicker; but growing from seed has one great advantage in that it introduces an infinite variety of colours. ■ . ■ Gerberas will not flourish unless they have proper drainage. Grown on a hillside, this condition will usually be fulfilled. While they must have good drainage, the plants are fairly thirgty [subjects. Planted in an open position on; a hillside where the soil is a light, sandy loam for preference, away from trees and bushes and other sheltered aspects, gerberas will thrive, wind and rain being of little consequence. The plants should be set with the crowns above the surface, the roots being spread out evenly all round with ■ a downward When first planted all tho leaves should be cut off, leaving three or four inches of stalk. Thoroughly soak the soil in the holes before planting. After the plants are established and have started to grow a good soaking with liquid manure once a fortnight will keep them going throughout the summer, except in exceptionally dry seasons.