I have done gerbera daisy from seed, but not the giant spinner. It is my understanding that gerbera daisy seeds don't have very good germination rates. I started about 50 seeds and got maybe 8 seedlings from them. The are good and strong though. I say give it a try!

Diana

Diana,

Do you use the seeds from the ones you buy or do you order them?

Just a little greenhouse production info for you. It can take from 14-18 weeks from seed to flower in optimal to close to optimal growing temperatures in a GH. Therefore wintersowing will take much longer for lack of temperature control. Since they are tender perennials you wouldn't be even sowing them until May and would expect flowering to start at least in September.

Botrytis Blight likes Gerbera seedlings in humid moist conditions too. It's important to know that it's not just a greenhouse disease, but naturally occurs outdoors and is usually limited to spring and fall when there are more cloudy/rainy than sunny days. Spores are carried in the wind and water and can find their way into vents on wintersown containers or when covers are removed. I like to keep all my containers on the south or southwest side of the house to maximize sun exposure...that takes away one of the requirements of an outbreak:)

Probably more than you wanted to know :O

Vera

Here is a link that might be useful: Gerbera Daisy

Vera,

no the more info you have the better decision you can make. I think I may try to start these indoors and then move out. What do I have to lose. The seeds will be free. Thanks for the info.

Beth

I have an orangey/red gerbera daisy from 2 yrs ago. I bring it in in the winter and put all my favorite plants upstairs (which is not heated in the winter) and water them about once every couple weeks. the one from last yr is in full bloom next to our pond. It has more blooms on it than I have ever seen. 4-5 flowers at a time is not uncommon.
It is a beautiful plant.
I want some 'giant spinner gerbera daisys' tho.
anyone know where I can buy them?
thanx,
Kat