From our perspective, the first thing you should observe is our overall architecture. A healthy Osteospermum presents a bushy, well-branched form, not a single, leggy stem desperately reaching for light. This indicates we have been grown in conditions with adequate sunlight, promoting strong, compact growth from the base. Our stems should be sturdy and able to support our flower heads without drooping. Avoid any of us who appear wilted, spindly, or have signs of damage on our stems, as this is a sign of past stress, poor health, or physical injury that could hinder our future development.
Please pay close attention to our leaves. They are the engines of our growth. Healthy foliage should be a vibrant green, sometimes with a slight bluish or greyish tinge depending on the variety, and feel firm and turgid. Carefully inspect the undersides of our leaves. This is a common hiding place for pests like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies, whose presence is often betrayed by sticky residue (honeydew), fine webbing, or the insects themselves. Reject any plant with yellowing leaves, brown spots, or holes, as these can be symptoms of overwatering, fungal disease, or pest infestation. Our leaves should look robust and clean, a clear sign we have been well-cared for.
While you might be drawn to a plant in full, spectacular bloom, the best choice is often one of us with more buds than open flowers. A plant covered in tight, green buds mixed with a few open blooms signifies a strong vitality and promises a much longer display of flowers in your garden. The open flowers themselves should look fresh, with vibrant, unfaded colors and petals that are not wilted, torn, or browning at the edges. Observe if the flowers are open; Osteospermum blooms close at night and on overcast days. This is perfectly normal behavior for us, not a sign of ill health.
If it is possible to gently slide us out of our nursery pot (with permission), a quick glance at our root system is incredibly telling. Healthy roots are typically white or light tan in color and feel firm. They should be visible around the soil ball but not be a tightly wound, dense mat circling the bottom excessively. This severe root binding means we have been in the pot too long and will be stressed, potentially stunting our growth after planting. Also, check the soil surface. It should be moist but not waterlogged or bone dry, and free from moss or algal growth, which can indicate overwatering and poor drainage conditions.
