Choosing the Right Pelargonium - Hardy Geraniums & Scented Leaved Pelargoniums
Select from a variety of species pelargoniums when planning to plant. This includes scented leaved pelargoniums, which possess scented leaves and foliage. The aim is to find the pelargonium plants or cuttings which are the best fit for your garden.
Consider the growth habits and hardiness of different pelargonium plants. Examples include species pelargoniums such as the hardy geranium, the short jointed regal pelargonium and evergreen perennials.
Look for young perennial plants with healthy, aromatic foliage, succulent stems, long stalks and scented leaves. They often have pink, mauve or purple flowers. Ivy leaved pelargoniums are a popular choice for hanging baskets and containers. This is due to ivy leaved plants providing cover for another plant/ flower.
The most popular types of pelargonium is the geranium and the pelargonium tip top duet which double blooms flowers in pink or mauve. Some may even be variegated. Geraniums tend to be a more tender plant and so are grown as annuals.
Leahurst nurseries stock various species pelargoniums including hardy geraniums which have a scented leaf similar to roses, pelargonium plants, regal pelargoniums, ivy-leaved pelargoniums (perfect for hanging baskets) as well as shrubs and other plants and flowers. Book a visit.
Difference between Pelargoniums and Geraniums
Geraniums are perennials meaning they come back to flower every year. Pelargoniums are annuals and cuttings tend to only last one season. A true geranium is hardy while a pelargonium flower can struggle in winter.
Geranium and pelargonium foliage is often variegated. Pelargonium flowers are white, pink, orange, red or mauve. Geranium flowers are green, gold, bronze or red in most cases. Leahurst nurseries stock a wide range of blooms.
Planting and Growing Young Species Pelargoniums
Plant young pelargoniums in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Space plants 12-18 inches apart with borders to allow for proper growth form and air circulation. This enables variegated stock.
Water thoroughly after planting seeds and keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks. Fertilise seed with a balanced fertiliser to promote healthy growth form and development for plants.
Use a high-quality potting mix or compost for stock such as John Innes which is specifically designed for pelargoniums. This ensures good drainage and aeration. Feed potted pelargoniums regularly with a balanced fertiliser and compost, taking care not to over-fertilise, particularly through the winter.
Consider using a fertiliser or compost with a slightly higher phosphorus content to promote blooming in the summer months. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilisers or compost, which can lead to weak and leggy growth. A geranium will not become hardy in this case.
Water them when the top inch of soil or compost feels dry to the touch. Avoiding overwatering, even in early spring and summer to prevent stock going obsolete.
Reduce watering in the winter months when plants are dormant. Look to move stock indoors to a greenhouse in winter. Maintain a humid, frost free environment in winter and outside of the spring and summer months. This should ideally be between 40-60% relative humidity, to promote healthy blooms.
Avoid getting water on the leaves when feeding to prevent fungal diseases.
Provide full sun to partial shade, depending on the variety. The warmth of a greenhouse releases the fragrance of scented leaved flowers.
Most prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day. At night they prefer around 55-65°F (13-18°C). This optimal condition for blooms is generally found in summer. Avoid exposing plants to extreme temperatures, such as frost or heatwaves. Even if only for a few hours it may not survive overwinter as a result of the first frosts.
Pot in a frost free environment. Even hardy geraniums may struggle over the winter months with the frost and minimal sun. Use a thermometer in pelargonium pots to monitor temperature fluctuations in stock.
Pruning and Training Young Plants
Prune regularly to maintain shape and promote healthy growth throughout spring and summer. Remove dead or damaged leaves and stems to prevent the spread of disease and bad scents between two groups. Borders between pots and baskets help avoid damage to stock.
Train plants to climb up trellises or other supports to maximise space. Unique pelargoniums can flower up to 3 metres tall in a greenhouse with full sun rather than partial shade. These tend to flower into pink, purple or mauve foliage. Pinch off flower buds to encourage bushy growth and prevent leggy stems.
Pest and Disease Control
Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Use organic or chemical controls as needed to prevent infestations in flowers.
Monitor flower for diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These affect geranium flower stock more in winter. Practice good hygiene, such as disinfecting tools and removing infected plants. This helps maintain the quality of plants stock.
Advanced Care Techniques
Take rooted cuttings in the spring or summer to propagate new plants and stock, particularly if these are pelargonium or geranium. Use a propagation tray or greenhouse to increase success rates.
Consider using a warming mat to promote pelargonium and geranium root growth and development. Experiment with different pruning techniques, such as pinching and disbudding, to control plant shape and promote pelargonium blooming.
Common Problems and Solutions
Address common problems such as yellowing leaves, droopy stems, and lack of blooming. It is common for these to affect pelargonium stock overwinter. Adjust watering, fertilisation, and pruning schedules as needed to address issues faced in winter, spring or summer.
Consider repotting plants in fresh soil/ compost or adjusting the potting mix to improve drainage from pots. Research specific solutions for pests and diseases, such as using neem oil or copper-based fungicides to use in pots to prevent effect on foliage of cuttings.
Conclusion
By following these essential tips, you can pot and grow healthy and thriving pelargoniums in your garden. This will help a garden to be full of plants and flowers even through the winter. Consider experimenting with different varieties including zonal types such as zonal cultivars, to add unique characteristics to your garden. This can help you grow zonal pelargoniums for cuttings.
Remember to choose the right variety of pelargonium, provide proper care for all plants and pots, and monitor stock for pests and diseases. A stock of scented leaved or ivy leaved pelargonium flowers or cuttings can be a great addition to any plant pot. With proper care for a plant in the right pot, pelargoniums can provide a beautiful pink summer colour and fragrance for years to come. Book a visit to Leahurst Nurseries today to see our wide range of pelargoniums
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