Geranium (Pelargonium)

Pelargonium (Geraniums) are perennials that love the summer sun. They come from South Africa but are widespread all over the world and are very popular and easy to grow. Pelargoniums rank as one of the highest number of potted flowering plants sold and also in terms of wholesale value.

Plant profile

They produce abundant flowering as long as they stay warm and in a light place. Remove the dead flowers to stimulate new flowers to grow. Although perennial, they are sensitive to winter frost, so they should be protected when temperatures drop. On the other hand, the geraniums do not tolerate excess humidity, reason why the soil must have good drainage.

The leaves of the geraniums are usually alternated and cut, often in long stems, and sometimes have clear and dark patterns. The stems are erect and have flowers grouped with five petals. They exist in a great variety of color variation: white, pink, red, purple, etc.

Pelargonium (Geraniums, Storksbills) red flower

As for the shape of growth, there are two types of geraniums: those that grow erect to form a small shrub and those that extend horizontally, with a tendency to “fall” much appreciated to use in windows and balconies.

How to plant

Geraniums are usually cultivated in pots, baskets or window boxes or balcony, where they form beautiful hanging plants.

Any pelargonium should be pruned early in spring so that it sprouts vigorously. Another important aspect is that it is worth cutting the first flowers so that the plant will gain vigor. The gardener will be rewarded because plant will grow more compact and produce flowers more abundantly.

Propagation

The propagation is usually done by cuttings removed during the growing season. They produce roots easily, as long as the soil is well drained.