The common name is the Transvaal Daisy which gives a clue as to its origin.  As well as the large headed Gerbera, a smaller form known as a Germini - mini Gerberera is available.

These versatile blooms are available in numerous colours and shades making them popular gifts, for bridal work, as well as for contemporary and traditional designs.

The vase life varies between 4 - 14 days.  The blooms are vulnerable to bacterial infection and need careful conditioning.

CONDITIONING:-

1.  Ensure that the blooms are fresh and in good condition.  Ask the florist to wire the blooms to prevent the heads from drooping and to eliminate air blocks.

2.  Re cut the stems at an angle to ensure a good take up of water.

3.  Place in a bleached cleaned container in no more than 4cms (1.5") of water with added cut flower food.

4.  Gerberas prefer clear water to wet foam, but can be used successfully in foam as long as the foam is kept wet.

5.  Change the clear water completely every 3 days to prevent bacterial infection.

6.  Should the blooms drrop, re cut the stems and place in 3cms of boiling water for 30 seconds and then into cool water.  This will remove the air lock and the heads should lift in 2 hours.

TRADTIONAL DESIGN USING GERBERA - 
Symmetrical Design

This design may be front facing or a free standing arrangement viewed from all angles.

1.  Decide on the colour scheme and size of the design.  Select 3/5 or 7 Gerbera, 2 other species of flowers and a filler flower, ensuring a variety of textures and shapes.  We find it helps to draw a quick sketch of the design (art degrees not required - blobs will do!)

2.  Pick or buy suitable foliages and condition for 24 hours.

3.  Fill an appropriate container with wet foam, ensuring that it allows 4cms of foam above the rim of the container and leaves space for watering.  Wedge the foam or tape it into the container.

4.  Using the foliages outline the shape of the design, placing the tall, slim foliges for the upright height and for the widths and depth.  Gradually build up the shape from the bottom, leaving room for the flower stems.

5.  Aim to create 3 triangular shapes, front and 2 side, for a front facing design and 4 for a free standing design.  This helps to prevent a  fan shape design.  For all designs, remember to fill in the back with foliage to create actual and visual balance.

6.  Place the flowers in the design, starting with the Gerbera, the focal flowers.  Use them to draw the eye into the design by placing them vertically.  Then add the other blooms and finish with the filler flower.

7.  Ensure that the foam is covered with foliage and spray with a mister.

Sit back and enjoy your creation – good luck!
Deidre & Liz @ The Flower Studio

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