Geranie/Pelargonie

Geranium / Pelargonium

Plant family

Geranium family (Geraniaceae)

Season Overview

Propagating

Planting

Harvest

1ST YEAR

FOLLOWING YEARS

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

High

Light germinator

Germination temperature

20 °C (Degrees Celsius)

Plant distance

25 cm

Row spacing

25 cm

Seeding depth

0.5 cm

Instructions

Description

Pelargoniums, scientifically known as Pelargonium, are a genus of plants within the cranesbill family (Geraniaceae) and originate from South Africa. These popular plants are characterised by their abundant flowers in various colours, including red, pink, purple and white, and bloom from March to October. Pelargoniums grow as annual or perennial herbaceous plants and can reach up to 40 cm in height depending on the variety. They are known for their robust, often hairy leaves, which are simple or lobed. The plants are easy to care for and require a sunny location as well as regular watering and fertilisation to develop their full floral splendour. Pelargoniums are not only popular as balcony and container plants, but are also suitable for beds and cemeteries. They are also toxic to some animals, which should be taken into account when positioning them in the garden. Thanks to the breeding of new varieties, pelargoniums are available in a wide range of forms and colours, making them an attractive choice for garden enthusiasts.

Origin:

Südafrika

Growing tips

Pelargoniums can be sown from December to March in seed trays at 20-25°C and a sowing depth of 0.5 cm. After pricking out, they are cultivated at 16°C and planted out from mid-May. For optimum growth, they need a sunny to semi-shady location, well-drained soil and regular watering, avoiding waterlogging. Weekly fertilization and the removal of faded inflorescences promote flower formation. To overwinter, the plants are cut back and kept in frost-free rooms at around 10°C with reduced watering. Pelargoniums are actually perennials, but are often cultivated as annual plants. As heavy feeders, they need a lot of nutrients and flower from May until the first frost.