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Gerberas in Chennai?

Gerberas can be raised in shady spots in gardens

LONG-LASTING BLOOMS Gerbera

Gerbera is a rather uncommon plant for this city. However, it is quite easy to grow. Gerbera or Transvaal or Barberton Daisy is a beautifully formed flower. The plant does not grow tall. It has deep green lobed leaves that grow in a well-arranged formation which in itself is attractive. Flowers are borne on slender, single, long stalks. The blooms are long-lasting both on the plant and as cut flowers. Even a single flower can be used in a flower arrangement. A rich, leafy soil that retains moisture is good for the plant which should be kept in semi-sun. Watering on alternate days is enough, otherwise the clump of roots can get soggy. Nutrient supplements are beneficial for flowering and can be administered once a month in moderate doses. Propagation is by root division and by seeds. Though a cold climate best suits the plant, it can be raised in Chennai during the cooler months or even throughout the year in cool, shady spots in a garden. Both single and double-petal varieties are available, chiefly in colours such as red, pink, orange and yellow. A potted border of gerberas is as much a pretty feature in a garden as is a lone specimen.

RUPA GOPAL

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