Pelargonium / Geranium

Pelargonium (Geranium) Description

Pelargoniums, also known as Geraniums, have been very popular with gardeners for many years. Bright and showy the Pelargonium can be accommodated in almost any flower garden. These versatile brightly coloured plants are right at home in flower beds, pots, containers, window boxes and hanging baskets. Geraniums are available in a huge array of colours including white, pink, red and mauve.

Pelargoniums, which are believed to have come to Europe from South Africa, have an important role in the perfume industry. The different varieties can produce a variety of scents however the ones with rose scent are the most important to the industry. An interesting aside is that it is believed that pelargoniums are a deterrent to mosquitoes.

Cultivation of Pelargonium Plants

Pelargonium are usually propagated by way of cuttings although some varieties can be grown from seed. Take a 7/8cm cutting in mid to late summer and plant in a pot of 6cm of cutting compost. Place the pots in a greenhouse. After the geranium cuttings have taken they can then be planted on to their final flowering destination.

For outdoor use pelargoniums can be planted out from late spring - once the danger of frost has past - in any well-drained soil in a sunny position.

Frequent deadheading will prolong the flowering season.

Pelargonium Pests and Diseases

Pelargoniums are usually trouble-free however they can be susceptible to whitefly on the leaves.