GERBERA

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 538, 15 December 1928, Page 30

GERBERA

OR AFRICAN DAISY The genus Gerbera was founded by the botanist Gronovius in 1737, and commemorates two German brothers, Gerber, who were collectors of plants at this period. The group, as at present conceived, comprises approximately 45 species, of which 25 are scattered throughout South Africa, especially in the ' coastal districts of Gape Colony, extending from the southwestern districts from the Cape Peninsula, eastwards up to Natal, and thence inland through the driest districts, where in their respective seasons they considerably enhance the beauty of the vegetation. Of the remaining species, three occur in Madagascar, three in tropical Africa, four in North Africa, the temperate zone of India four, and China has four species. The gerberas of the Cape Peninsula are invariably found on the mountain slopes, principally of the Table Mountain Range, from sea level up to elevations of about 1.500 feet. Some luxuriate in the crevices of outcrops of granite on the geological formation known as the Table Mountain sandstone, a sandstope of reddish hue; others prefer more open and sandy

situations, sand of a loose. white, coarse-grained matrix. Their preference for the geological formation under consideration is further) evidenced by their greater abuu'daiK#- in the coastal districts, which are traversed by this particular formation, and their absence or rarity where it vanishes. Gerberas seem to like a moderately heavy soil best. Red volcanic soil suits them to perfection. Good drainage is very important. A northerly slope is the ideal spot, opeu to all the sunlight, for gerberas are true sun-worshippers. If you not a northerly aspect, plant the gerberas along the northern side of a paling fence or wall.

Thoroughly dig the soil to a depth of 18 inches; mix with it some welldecayed cow or horse manure, burnt grass or other vegetable matter, raise the beds slightly (say three or four inches) above the level of the path: tread down, the soil firmly, and place your plants in position.

Narrow beds, with two row's of plants placed about 15 to 18 inches apart, will do nicely. After putting

out your plants, just keep the soil moist. Do not attempt to overdo the watering. Then, beyond pulling out the weeds, leave your plants almost entirely alone. Purchase the best plants you can obtain. Seedlings, of course, have all their life before them, but you never know what colours you are likely to get. If they are small plants, they may turn out nearly all pale yellow or washy shades. Sections of vigorous plants which have flowered will give entire satisfaction if properlyhandled.

Do not forget to make the soil firm around Hhe plants. Mulch the surface with rotted leaves or grass. You will then reap a harvest of beautiful flowers, -which are not 1 excelled for decorations, over a period of many months.