Gerbera Garvinea Sweet Surprise (Gerbera Daisy)

Hardier than most, Gerbera Garvinea Sweet Surprise (Gerbera Daisy) is a semi-evergreen perennial forming a basal rosette of tongue-shaped, rich green leaves. Large semi-double, daisy-like, orchid-pink flowers with creamy-yellow centers, 2 in. across (5 cm), bloom almost continuously from spring until the first frosts. Each plant will produce up to 100 flowers on long stems that rise well above the lush foliage. Praised for its cold-hardiness and strong resistance to disease and pests, this Gerbera daisy is perfect to enliven the front of beds, borders, cutting gardens or containers with its cheerful smiles.

• Grows up to 18 in. tall and wide (45 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Welcomes some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Excellent drainage is critical. Water deeply and let the soil become nearly dry before watering again. Fertilize monthly for best flower production.
• This Gerbera daisy is perennial in hardiness zones 7-10 or climate zones 8,9,12-24,H1,H2 but treated as an annual in cooler areas.
• Remove dead flowers regularly to encourage further flowering. When cutting flowers for arrangements, slit the bottom inch of the stem before placing it in water.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Keep an out for aphids, leaf miners, whiteflies, powdery mildew, leaf spot or root rot.
• Propagate by division in early spring or by basal softwood cuttings in summer.