Perennials - Daisy
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  (January) When is the best time to divide Gerbera daisies? What are the soil requirements? I have some that are in pots that I brought into our garage and they are putting on new leaves. Several of them have a white mildew looking substance on some of the leaves. Even had some last year during the summer months that had the same thing, all of which were in pots. Have you heard of it and what needs to be done to prevent it?

  Gerbera daisies, if planted in the ground, are considered winter hardy in central Arkansas, but are often not long lived perennials. I wold wait and divide them when the bulk of winter is past. In the ground outdoors, we would divide as they emerge in the spring, or in the fall. It sounds to me like your plants are suffering from powdery mildew. Is the white substance all over the leaves, or just in clumps? If it is the latter, that would be mealy bugs, but my guess is that it is the mildew. A fungicide spray when they are actively growing can help.

  (June) This year I planted Gerber daisies for the first time in pots on my deck. For several weeks they bloomed and were beautiful. As the flowers faded I pinched them off. No new blooms have appeared for several weeks now and none are in sight. Will these bloom again this summer? Also, can I over-winter them in the pots or should I plant them outside and when? If I do carry them over either in pots or planted in the ground should they bloom next year?

  Gerber daisies like fertilizer. Be sure to fertilize them regularly-without overdoing it. In containers they need even more, because you are leaching it out with the frequent watering. Water as needed. I often find that in the hottest months, they can slow down a bit, especially if they don't get the nutrition they need. Gerber's are short-lived perennials, but easier to maintain in the ground versus in pots. I have had them in the garden for 3-4 years. Make sure the soil is well drained, especially during the winter months. Deadheading is important, as well as water. With proper care, they can bloom throughout the season.

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