Since Gerbera daisies are native to the tropics, they aren’t exactly fans of a chilly winter. Because they can’t handle the frost, you’ll need to make a plan to bring them indoors before the cold snaps hit. To keep your plants happy and healthy for next year, it’s all about timing and the right setup.
Get Moving by October
The typical Gerbera bloom season runs from May through September. Once those final late-summer flowers start to fade, it’s your cue to bring them inside. You really don’t want to leave them outdoors past early October, as the dropping nighttime temperatures can stress the plant.
Potting Them Up for the Season
If your Gerberas were planted in the ground, you’ll need to transition them to containers. Dig up the root ball generously—give them plenty of space!—and plant them in a clean, appropriately sized pot with fresh garden soil.
Once they’re inside, find a spot with plenty of bright, natural light. A little pro-tip: make sure the pots aren’t shoved right against the wall. You want enough space for air to circulate around the leaves. As for temperature, they prefer a cool but cozy spot that stays consistently between 54°F and 59°F (12–15°C).
The One Exception: Hardy Gerberas
Out of the 30 or so Gerbera varieties out there, there’s really only one that can handle a bit of a chill: the Garvinea. This tough cookie can survive outdoors down to about 23°F (-5°C). If the forecast looks even colder than that, you’ll need to give them some extra love. Cover them with a thick layer of straw or mulch to insulate the roots from the deep freeze.
To recap, here’s your winter game plan for Gerberas:
- Move them inside by early October at the latest.
- Dig up the roots carefully, keeping the root ball intact.
- Choose a bright winter home with consistent, cool temperatures.
