Pelargoniums

Pelargoniums also known as Geraniums are having their origin in South Africa. They are almost all tender, evergreen, perennial plants. Pelargoniums may be divided into five groups according to the main characteristics of the plants: zonal, dwarf and miniature zonal, regal, ivy-leaved and scented-leaved.

Pelargoniums may be grown in all types of well-drained compost: loam-based, peat substitute or peat as long as it is fresh and has been stored away from direct sunlight. They need a little attention when watering because pelargoniums must be kept on the dry side until well established and then they need plenty of water during the growing season.

Give pelargoniums a weekly application of a high-potash feed such as tomato fertilizer. you can start feeds three weeks from potting and keep on the whole summer. This will help the flower to produce more flowers than becoming too leafy.

Overwintering

Pelargoniums must be kept frost-free. In temperate climates, plants grown outside may be saved for the following season by moving them under cover before the first frost is expected, some time in mid autumn. Remove the plants from the ground or containers and shake as much compost from the roots as possible, then trim the stems by half and remove any remaining leaves.

Repot the prepared plants into a box or small pots filed with fresh potting compost. Than water the compost well and leave the box or pots in an airy position for two to three days, while the cut stems seal and so prevent black-leg disease. Store in good light in a frost-free place.

Shoots will soon appear. You need to water them only on fine days when the foliage will dry more quickly and remember to feed them every six weeks during the winter with a well-balanced fertilizer.

During very cold weather keep the plants dry and add extra protection from frost. By spring the shoots will be large enough to be used as cuttings. Alternatively the shoots may potted up separately and grown on for planting out in early summer.