Gazania is a versatile perennial that is grown in colder regions as an annual. It is a prolific bloomer. The many varieties of this flower appear in a wide array of colors, and it grows well in containers, in flower beds, and as a ground cover.

Gazania seeds can be started indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost, or directly outdoors after all frost danger has passed.

Grow Gazania in an area of full sun in average soil that is well-drained. Gazania can tolerate poor soil conditions.

• If starting indoors, use trays or small pots filled with a seed starter mix.
• If starting directly outdoors, first prepare a seedbed by weeding and breaking up the soil.
• Surface sow 2-3 seeds per plant (100 seeds per 10 sq. ft. for bulk planting), and lightly cover with vermiculite or soil.
• Keep seeds moist until germination, and maintain a temperature of 65-75F degrees. Under proper conditions, these seeds should germinate in 2-3 weeks.
• Once indoors seedlings have their first few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors at the end of frost season.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• Gazania is quite drought-tolerant, and the soil should be allowed to dry out in between waterings. Water during dry spells.
• Fertilization is largely unnecessary, as Gazania tolerates poor soil conditions.
• If growing as a perennial (Gazania dies after hard frost), trim back during late winter or early spring.