Indoor flowers care geranium. Pelargonium flower - types and care

Pelargonium is known to many as geranium, which is the more common name for this plant. Pelargonium belongs to the Geraniev family. It fits perfectly into any conditions and becomes a real decoration in your interior.

The plant was introduced in the 17th century from the Cape Colony. And only aristocrats had the right to grow geraniums, but over time, the plant became available to many interested flower growers.

Pelargonium varieties photos and names

Its homeland is Southwest Africa. This species is a shrub about 9 cm high. The foliage is more rounded with a dissection, the leaf surface is either smooth or slightly pubescent. The pedicel contains 2-3 flowers. The inflorescence is about 3.5 cm in diameter, whitish or with scarlet veins. Flowering begins in the spring.

AT natural conditions grows in southern parts Cape Province. The bush is abundantly branched and reaches a height of up to one meter. The foliage is lobed with pubescence both outside and inside. The flowers have a pronounced pleasant smell. Inflorescences are collected in umbrellas with crimson and light pink tint. Flowering takes place in summer period.

Represents a bush with a compact small trunk. The bush reaches a height of about 22 cm, the shoots are short, the foliage is more rounded in the shape of a heart. The leaf is slightly serrated in width with slight pubescence. Flowers in the form of an umbrella up to 10 pcs. on a pedicel with a pleasant smell. Flower color from light to pink. Flowering occurs in summer.

In nature, it is more common in the South-East of the Cape. Planted bushes in height reaching up to 1.5 meters. Branches poured with pubescence. The foliage is more rounded or lobed.

The surface of the leaf is either smooth or slightly pubescent along the surface with a chocolate-colored stripe. Flowers in the umbrella are in large numbers. The color of the flowers is scarlet. Flowering lasts from spring to autumn.

Its inflorescences are similar to unblown tulip buds with 7-9 petals. This subgroup is distinguished by blooms knocked into a bouquet. This group was bred in 1966 in Boston.

Or ampelous . This type of plant with drooping branches up to one meter long. They are in demand for decorating balconies or in the summer for landing on the site as ground cover.

foliage ampelous species the shape may be different. The color of the flowers ranges from white to burgundy or black. The surface of the foliage is smooth and similar to ivy leaves, rough and unpleasant to the touch.

An interesting view with inflorescences similar to small bunches of roses with unblown buds.

Currently, many varieties of rosebud pelargoniums have been bred. This type of pelargonium is distinguished by terry inflorescences.

Represents a neat bush. Inflorescences are similar to rosaceous pelargonium. flowers zonal pelargonium have a strong resemblance to roses. The height of the bush is standard up to 50 cm in height. The foliage has a rich green tint. Inflorescences full of terry varieties. The shade of the flower is a delicate raspberry color.

It has terry inflorescences with a delicate pink tint of flowers. Umbrellas corrugated flowers resemble a soft ball. This type of pelargonium must be cut to form beautiful shape bush.

This species is represented by strong bushes covered with many leaves and double flowers of a scarlet hue. Dark venation appears on the surface of the leaf.

It is the most popular variety. On strong shoots, up to 20 flowers are formed on one umbrella. The diameter of the flower can reach up to 6 cm. The shade of the Viva Rosita flower has a bright crimson hue.

Represents a small compact bush. Leaves are light in color. The bush does not need to be formed. The flowers are large, the shade of the flower is unusual with a tone transition to a light orange color. Inflorescences are formed in the form of umbrellas.

This is a tulip-shaped plant with bright pale pink inflorescences with a white tint. The petals of the flowers are corrugated along the edge. The flowers resemble unopened tulip buds.

A plant resistant to temperature changes does not require additional lighting. Flowering begins at the end of winter and lasts all season. Does not require pruning.

Pelargonium home care

Caring for a plant will not make you spend a lot of time. Fulfilling all the prescriptions, you will be pleased with a healthy blooming pelargonium constantly.

Lighting flower prefers in sufficient quantities. Then he does not lose decorative look. It is better to shade from direct sunlight, and in winter period with a lack of lighting, it is better to add additional light sources.

The temperature regime for pelargonium should correspond to 20 -25 degrees in summer and about 15 degrees in winter.

Watering pelargonium

Watering the plant prefers moderate constant in the summer, it is necessary to water as soon as it dries upper layer soil. In winter, watering should be reduced only if the room temperature has dropped.

Pelargonium does not like stagnant moisture, as this adversely affects the root system. When caring for a plant, it is better not to water it once again than to overmoisten it. Pelargonium has the property of a moisture storage system, so it can long time go without water.

It is not necessary to spray the plant, as this harms the flowers. Humidity does not matter much, the main thing is constant ventilation of the premises.

Fertilizers for pelargoniums

It is necessary to feed the plants throughout the growing season from spring to autumn. It is preferable to use fertilizers in liquid form and in slightly moist soil.

In order for the plant to please you with abundant landscaping, it is necessary to select fertilizers with the addition of nitrogen.

Magnesium sulfate for pelargoniums

This is a fertilizer that is used when it is necessary to obtain a constant abundant flowering.

Magnesium and sulfur help the formation of a large number of buds. The drug is used 15 g, per 5 liters of water. Only on the condition that the water is room temperature.

Also, the plant needs potassium and phosphorus for full development, feed according to the instructions on the package. In winter, top dressing should be excluded.

Pelargonium transplant

Pelargonium is transplanted before the start of the growing season, in the spring. Young individuals require a transplant annually, adults less often. The capacity for transplantation must be selected a few centimeters more. If the capacity is large, the plant will refuse to bloom.

A transplant of pelargonium in the fall is not desirable, but if necessary, for any reason, then it can be done.

Soil for pelargoniums

The land can be purchased ready-made in the store or prepared independently. To do this, a good layer of drainage must be laid on the bottom.

And it is also necessary to mix sheet soil, soddy soil, sand and humus all in equal proportions.

Pelargonium pruning

Garden pelargonium must be cut with the onset of cold weather so that the plant can tolerate winter frosts. It is necessary to cut off half of its total height. Or transplant pelargonium for the winter in a pot.

Pelargonium pruning in the fall is necessary after it has faded.

Indoor pelargoniums are pruned to form a crown and lush flowering. Such pruning is done at the end of winter, before the start of the growing season. After pruning, houseplants lay many new flowering buds.

Pruning must be done with a good sharp blade and cut the shoot obliquely giving the plant the desired shape.

Pelargonium propagation by cuttings

To do this, cut a cutting about 7 cm long, dry it a little for 24 hours and plant it in the ground. There is no need to cover. Care is the need for watering from time to time.

After about 30 days, the plant takes root. Cuttings can be rooted in water, and after the roots appear, they can be planted in the ground. This method is used in late winter and mid-summer.

Pelargonium from seeds at home

Seeds are planted in a light soil of peat and sand, moistened a little before sowing. Seeds are spread on the surface and sprinkled with soil a little. Cover with glass or film, creating greenhouse conditions.

Periodically open for airing and watering. The temperature for seeds should be kept within 23-25 ​​degrees. A few weeks after germination, the plants dive and lower the temperature to 20 degrees and keep under such conditions for about two months. And then planted in required space. Seeds should be sown at the end of winter.

Diseases and pests

Pelargonium leaves turn yellow. There may be a number of reasons for this, incorrectly selected soil, improper watering, small capacity or lack of fertilizer.

In pelargonium, the leaves turn yellow and dry; this is due to a lack of moisture in the soil. Watering needs to be done more regularly.

Pelargonium does not bloom at home, the most common reason is not maintaining the dormant state of the plant. That is, in winter, it is necessary to lower the temperature of the plant content to 15-18 degrees, and also to prune in a timely manner. Then the plant will lay a large number of buds.

Growing geraniums or is not laborious and even pleasant.

The flower requires minimal care and maintenance. all year round can please its patrons with a lush hat of inflorescences.

Although there is a room geranium that does not bloom, traditionally flower growers choose for their window sills those types of indoor geraniums that bloom from time to time and decorate windows with their bright color for a long time.

Let's talk about the types and care of this plant in this article.

This plant native to Africa can be seen on windowsills, balconies and loggias. It is herbaceous or semi-shrub.

3. Tulip Geranium

In this plant, the flowers, even during full bloom, do not open completely, continuing to look like buds. Therefore, this indoor geranium captured in the photo bears such a name.

A variety of a flower appeared due to an arbitrary mutation, and the few varieties and hybrids of such geraniums that are found today, flower growers, growing and propagating, often try to return to their original, natural form.

4. Unique

The parents of this hybrid are royal and brilliant geraniums. This group belongs to the oldest varieties. However, it is not often possible to find a plant in private collections of geranium lovers.

By appearance the flowers of the unique are similar to the flowers of the royal pelargonium, but they are smaller. The leaves of the plant are often dissected, with folds, smell pleasant. So, in the Paton's Unique species, the flowers emit a delicate fruity aroma.

5. Angel

These pelargoniums are like royal ones, but they are more small flowers. Varieties of "angel" were obtained by crossing curly and large-flowered geraniums.

This is usually ampelous plant, which can also be seen in the photo of geraniums, which are distinguished by a lush crown. It is formed by shoots and miniature leaves of the same tone.

6. Fragrant

If your attention has ever been attracted by the smell of homemade geraniums, you should know: most likely, it was fragrant geranium. In the last century, indoor plants were no longer valued for the beauty of the inflorescences, but for the aroma of flowers. They deodorized the premises. This kind of varieties and hybrids of indoor flowers are in demand today.

Fragrant geranium does not make a brilliant impression with its bright color or flower configuration, but to a greater extent it is used to flavor dishes, to saturate rooms with a special aroma. The leaves of the plant are often placed in cabinets with bed linen and outerwear for their flavoring.

Leaves fragrant geranium have the smell of fruits, roses, mint, pine needles and carrots!

7. Cactus Geranium

This type of plant was obtained in the 20th century and is quite rare today. It is characterized by a rather large size of flowers, the petals of which are narrowed so much that they sometimes resemble needles. They give the ratsenia a somewhat disheveled look.

8. Ivy Geranium

This ampel variety gives a lot of long shoots - the whip can reach 1 m in length. Therefore, the plant is often planted in hanging bowls and placed high enough from the floor. The leaves of the flower are completely smooth, glossy, shaped like ivy leaves.

Most of the ampelous types of indoor geraniums, as in the photo, form drooping, creeping stems, so they are ideal for landscaping in a vertical direction, for planting in hanging baskets.

The leaves of the ivy geranium are leathery, strong, and differ from those of the zonal or bordered geranium in that they are perfectly smooth.

9. Miniature Views

These species known since the century before last include, in particular, rose-shaped geranium.

It is distinguished by beautiful double flowers that look like flowers of dwarf English roses. The plant was first mentioned in 1876 in the press of that time for flower growers.

In Russia, rosaceous geranium is not so popular, and it can only be found in the collections of plants of the most enthusiastic flower growers.

10. Royal geranium

The plant appeared in the course of selection and interspecific hybridization. It can be recognized by large flowers with a diameter of up to 7 cm. This variety of room geranium differs from others not only in the dimensions of semi-double corollas.

Its feature is also in multi-color coloring. The petals of the plant are covered with contrasting color spots, specks or veins. This geranium is the most whimsical. Her flowering period is much shorter - up to 4 months. And flowers bloom only after the growth of geraniums for two years.

Disembarkation and care

Planting a geranium

You can buy geranium in seeds, in the form of a cutting or a grown bush. In the latter case, the bush is grown taking into account the characteristics of the plant and the proven recommendations of experienced flower growers.

Growing from seed

Geraniums have rather large seeds, convenient for planting. When planting, they are laid flat on the ground with an interval of 2 cm, then they are barely pressed down. After planting the seeds, the soil is carefully sprayed with water from a spray bottle so that the seeds remain in the planting site and are not displaced due to watering.

For the flower to bloom summer season, you need to plant it in last days February.

Put on a bowl with planted seeds plastic bag, it is cleaned in a dark warm place, after which it is checked every day for shoots. Usually geraniums take 5-6 days to sprout.

When at least one sprout appears, the bowl is placed in the light, freeing from the package. The grown seedlings with four sheets are planted in separate bowls - dive.

Growing cuttings and geranium bush

Having chosen the soil and the bowl for planting the purchased seedling, it is placed in a container with drainage, sprinkled with soil for room geraniums. It can be purchased ready-made or homemade - from light peat, sand, earth (which can be brought from the garden in the fall) and vermiculite.

The soil composition is loose, perfect for pelargonium. The bowl is selected based on the root system of the seedling. A well-formed bush, and even more so a young one, grows well in a small bowl, the diameter of which does not exceed 15 cm.

The best material for a bowl is baked clay, although plastic is also suitable. The second option is cheaper. And in the case of such a choice, it must be borne in mind that the water after watering in a plastic bowl does not dry out so quickly, which is why the grower risks “flooding” the plant.

So that the roots of pelargonium do not rot, the black leg does not affect it, it is necessary to form a good two-three-layer drainage in the bowl. In addition, the bowl must have at least one hole for draining water.

Care for indoor geraniums at home

Caring for pelargonium, as already noted, is not at all difficult. Geranium is a picky plant, which is what flower growers like so much. Complete flower care comes down to the fulfillment of several conditions:

Landing place

Geranium loves good lighting, and the flowering of the plant depends on its quality. Provide your pet with maximum sunlight if you want to see his lush blooms for as long as possible. It is preferable to grow geraniums on the southern windowsills.

Watering

The regularity of watering is determined by the speed at which the outer earthen layer dries out. Pelargonium is resistant to drought, but does not tolerate excessive moisture.

A geranium bush may die if it is "filled".

As a rule, water the plant three times every week. Do this carefully, avoiding water on the leaves of the flower. It is better not to spray geraniums.

Indoor temperature

In summer, this factor is not critical, but in winter it is important.

On winter days, it is necessary to maintain a temperature of 10 ° C and protect the pelargonium from drafts.

top dressing

Pelargonium fertilizer is produced during its flowering period and on the eve of it with fertilizers containing phosphorus. It is unacceptable to fertilize geranium with organic matter, the flower does not tolerate it.

Bush formation

The process is a rejuvenating pruning of the flower and the formation of young growth. For the purpose of pruning, 5 buds or less are left on the shoots. Of these, new branches will soon appear.

For the formation of young growth, the tops of pelargonium are pinched with fingers so that the flower is more bushy. It is best to form a plant bush when winter ends and spring begins.

loosening

The procedure provides a better supply of air to the roots of the plant and does not allow the earth to petrify. For loosening, you can use not only a special rake. Suitable for such work and a stick or even an old fork.

Transfer

Pelargonium is not transplanted every year, but at intervals of 2-3 years. When transplanting, it is better to leave the plant with a lump of the former earth and its roots should not be exposed. As a rule, a flower is transplanted when indoor geraniums are far behind in development.

No need to choose a huge bowl for transplantation. The one in which the diameter is larger than the previous one by the thickness of the index finger is quite suitable.

Bloom

The plant usually blooms about five months after planting in the form of seeds. Geranium blooms in the same year if planted in the last days of February. The stalk begins to bloom earlier - after 3 months.

But it should be understood that such terms are typical for zonal varieties and hybrids. Royal geranium and Angel varieties begin to bloom only in the second year.

Reproduction by seeds

When collecting seeds by hand, the preservation of the variety is not guaranteed. harvested seeds you need to scarify - you need to remove the outer shell from them by rubbing against each other or on sandpaper.

Che breedingranks

In most cases, the geranium bush is cuttings. Cuttings 6 cm long are placed in water so that they germinate and give white roots. After their appearance, pelargonium is planted in the ground or germinated in coarse wet sand.

Room geranium diseases and pests

Often indoor geranium strikes fungus or virus.

fungal plant diseases- black leg, rot or leaf rust, which are treated with fungicidal solutions.

Pelargonium does not have many pests, but they are very annoying. This is aphids, caterpillars, whitefly and mites.

You can notice these pests if you carefully examine the foliage of the flower from the outside and back. Spraying the plant with the means provided for this helps to eliminate them. If it is not possible to identify a specific pest, it is better to use a complex preparation.

Room geranium leaves turn yellow - what to do?

Novice flower growers are often faced with the fact that the foliage of the ward geranium turns yellow, and then falls off, the bush does not bloom in any way. The cause of the problem is not proper care.

• Leaves yellowed along the edge - a signal of a lack of water,
• fallen and faded - about flooding the bush,
• fallen from the bottom of the flower - about the lack of sunlight.

The latter is also the answer to the question why room geranium does not bloom. Flowering is not observed even when the plant is overfed with nitrogen, which stimulates the set of green mass by the flower.

Medicinal properties of room geranium

1. The ability of pelargonium to purify the air from pathogenic microbes. The aroma of the flower acts as an antidepressant, relieves stress.
2. The ability to scare away pests from oneself and closely growing flowers. Geranium repels pests not only from its bush, but also from all other plants nearby. AT summer days it is better to place geraniums in the garden near the apple tree or under currant bush currants - this eliminates aphids.
3. Healing action. Pelargonium is widely used in traditional medicine- it is being treated various diseases, considering it similar in spectrum to plantain. Fresh geranium leaves perfectly heal wounds and have a healing effect on ulcers. A decoction of leaves helps to cope with diseases of the stomach and intestines.

Finds geranium and other uses - they make it essential oil, suitable for treatment, which is used for:

• runny nose,
• back and ear pain
• muscle fatigue.

As can be seen from the description and photo of room geranium, it is not only beautiful, but also useful. Be sure to get this flower if it is not already on your windowsill.

And what care is needed for geraniums at home, you now know.

Not too demanding for care, blooming for several months in a row and so bright - pelargonium or indoor geranium. This plant has about 400 species, and its homeland is South Africa. Only at the end of the 15th century did representatives of the Geranev family appear in Europe. Since then, this flower has never ceased to delight us with its variegated colors and variety of forms. In this article, you will learn everything about growing, propagating, transplanting, why geranium leaves turn yellow and dry, and much more about caring for this beautiful flower.

Home care for beginners

It will not be difficult for even a novice florist to care for pelargonium, since this flower does not require special treatment and is unpretentious in conditions. In addition, the plant has healing properties, and saves other plants on the windowsill from pests such as aphids.

Lighting

The more light, the better, because pelargonium is light-loving indoor plant. The best place for a handsome flower, the Southern sunny window sill will become, although it can also feel good in partial shade. But under the constant influence of the summer rays of the sun, the leaves of the flower will begin to turn yellow and dry out, which indicates a burn. Therefore, it is better to save it, and remove it from the windowsill at lunchtime.

Temperature

The most acceptable for pelargonium is room temperature. At a mark below + 12ºC, the leaves begin to wilt and fall off. But at the same time, in winter, the plant cannot be kept too warm conditions, otherwise it will not bloom later.

Humidity

Experienced flower growers say that home care for ampelous geranium, ivy, royal and other varieties does not require special observance indicators of air humidity. The plant tolerates both wet and dry conditions well. Only spraying, perhaps, should be abandoned. This colorful flower just loves Fresh air, so in the summer it is recommended to take it outside, or put it on the balcony.

Watering the plant

The stems that curl the ampelous pelargonium look very beautiful in hanging baskets, and the royal variety impresses with its colorful huge inflorescences up to 7 centimeters in diameter. And the pink-shaped pelargonium pleases us with double flowers, reminiscent of miniature rosebuds. It doesn’t matter what kind of geranium grows on the windowsill, the main thing is to know how to water it properly.

• In summer, you need to water the flower abundantly and regularly, but be sure to ensure that there is no stagnation of moisture in the pot. Sluggish, with gray mold leaves of the plant, blackened stem - indicates an excess of moisture. Indoor pelargonium loves moist soil, but not spraying with water. To avoid stagnant water, you should ensure good drainage in the flowerpot.
• In winter, the plant requires less frequent watering. Monitor the condition of the soil in the pot, and water only as it dries out. Although pelargonium is classified as a drought-resistant plant, you should not keep it near a hot battery.

Suitable soil

This flower is not particularly whimsical to the soil in which it grows. Suitable for him, as well as garden soil, and a universal mixture from a flower shop. Experienced growers are advised to prepare the soil for pelargonium according to this recipe:

• Take 8 pieces of ground with turf
• 2 parts humus
• 1 part sand

Just like any other plant, pelargonium needs periodic feeding.

fertilizers

It is worth saying right away that fresh fertilizer organic origin need to be excluded. The plant simply does not tolerate them, it is better to take top dressing containing potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus in equal dosages. Potassium is especially useful for the violent flowering of geraniums. She also needs micronutrients, such as:

• Calcium
• Iron
• Copper, etc.

For this plant can be purchased at flower shop universal fertilizers for flowering houseplants. Only if the soil in the pot is dry, liquid top dressing cannot be used immediately, it burns the roots, after which they will begin to dry, and the plant will die. You need to water the flower first.

Pruning for lush blooms

In autumn, the time comes for the formation of the pelargonium crown, so that it is thicker and blooms profusely. When pruning, leave a stalk with about 6-7 leaves. Remove shoots that have grown not from the roots, but from the leaf axils. If the plant has grown again during the winter, you can cut it back somewhere at the end of February or at the beginning of March.

At the same time, the cut shoots can be used as cuttings that propagate pelargonium. But how to propagate geraniums at home, you will learn from our article below.

In the future, to improve flowering, and the beautiful shape of the pelargonium crown, its shoots are needed after the appearance of 4-5 leaves. Only now, from December to January, it is better not to touch the plant, because it has a dormant period.

Propagation of geraniums at home with cuttings and seeds

Care and propagation of ivy geraniums, royal, ampelous and other varieties, involves growing a new plant by cuttings or planting seeds. Propagation by seeds results in compact dimensions a plant with a huge number of peduncles. But this method is rather troublesome, and only experienced flower growers are engaged in such a process.

More in a simple way breeding pelargonium is planting cuttings. At the same time, planting material can be stocked up throughout the year, but it is still better to do this in the spring. The cutting should have 2-3 leaves and a length of about 5-7 centimeters. And the whole process is in the following way:

• Cut off a cutting or several;
• Let him wilt during the day;
• Then pour crushed coal into the place of the cut;
• Drop "baby" in flower pot not large sizes, with loose soil.

You can root the stalk in wet coarse sand, and constantly maintain moisture in it. Only when watering, do not get on the leaves of the plant and stems. Planted cuttings do not need to cover and feed anything. After the appearance of the roots, pelargonium is planted in a permanent place of "residence". Optimum temperature for the formation of strong roots, 20-22 ºC is considered.

How does geranium propagate by seeds:

• It is necessary to sow pelargonium seeds in loose soil, which consists of peat, sand and sod land in the ratio 1:1:2.
• From above they cover with the same soil an thickness of 2.5 centimeters, and sprinkle with water from a spray bottle.
• Previously, the soil is shed with a not steep solution of potassium permanganate, so that the seedlings do not get sick.
• The planting is covered with glass, and, removing condensate as much as possible, constantly moisten the soil.
• In order for pelargonium seeds to germinate well, it is necessary to maintain an air temperature of about 18-22 ºC
• When shoots have appeared, the glass is removed, the temperature is lowered to 16-20 ºC, and the pot is placed in a bright place.

After 2 months, or even a little earlier, the plant will have 2-3 leaves. Now it can be planted in a pot, and to enhance tillering, pinch when there are at least 5-6 leaves.

geranium not blooming

The most common reason for the lack of flowering is the untimely formation of the crown, the plant must be cut regularly to stimulate flowering. Here are a few more reasons for the lack of peduncles:

• Low temperature air or lack of lighting.
• It may be very fertile soil, therefore it is better to purchase a substrate for pelargonium.
• Large flower pot. A lot of space stimulates the growth of roots, so the plant does not have enough strength to bloom.
• Few feed.

Leaves turn yellow, what to do?

This phenomenon also has several reasons:

• If the pelargonium leaves turn yellow and begin to dry around the edges, the plant lacks moisture.
• If the yellowing of the leaves is accompanied by their wilting, the opposite is the cause, an excess of moisture.
• The lower leaves turn yellow and gradually fall off - there is not enough light for the plant.
• Why do room geranium leaves turn yellow after transplantation - this is an adaptation process, which can also occur when changing the “habitat”.

How often is sick

The fact is that pelargonium is one of those indoor plants that suffer little from the attack of pests and diseases. But sometimes there are such problems:

• Gray rot (mold). It infects mainly the leaves of the plant, while diseased leaves must be removed immediately and watering stopped. After pelargonium is sprayed with antifungal drugs.
• Root rot. If the plant is watered too often, when the clod of earth does not have time to dry out in the pot, this disease appears. Unfortunately, for pelargonium, root rot is detrimental and irreversible.
• Aphid. Such pests can be green, gray and black in color, and settle on the underside of the leaves. To expel pests, an insecticide for indoor flowers is suitable, which is used according to the instructions on the package.
• Powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease. You can’t confuse it with anything, since the leaves and stems of the plant are covered with white, like flour in bloom. Fungus occurs due to high humidity in a warm room. To fight powdery mildew well suited solution blue vitriol, ammonium nitrate 0.5%, etc.

But the use of toxic substances may not always have a beneficial effect on pelargonium, so low concentrated solutions should be used.

In the East, pots with white geraniums are placed near the entrance to the house, because it is believed that the plant repels snakes. And the ancient Slavs believed that the petals of pelargonium attract the attention of a loved one.

Geranium - a representative of the Geranium family, moved to a comfortable home environment. She admires the variety of colors and leaf shapes. It came to Europe in the 17th century, along with other plants from Africa. Geranium was liked by local breeders who created many interesting varieties. A beautiful and hardy houseplant has spread throughout the world.

Perennial, growing in pots, has leaves of a rounded core shape. Their color depends on the variety, it is represented by all shades of green. The stem is erect, the petioles are long, the root is branched.

Reference! Peduncles are long, flowers are collected in brushes. The range of shades includes red, white, pink, lilac. Each flower has 5 petals. After flowering, a fruit-box is formed. In shape, it resembles the beak of a crane.

For cultivation in pots, several types of geraniums are used:

• ampelous or curly - used for growing in hanging pots;
• fragrant - lush bush with small flowers and leaves that emit a pleasant aroma;
• royal - tall plant with large bright flowers, terry or simple;
• zonal - the most common type, its hallmark- multi-colored circles on the leaves.

When meeting with pelargonium, you need to know her addictions. What does this perennial love? In addition to the specifics of watering, the choice of location and soil, it is worth noting the need for fresh air.

Geranium growing in a pot is taken outside with the onset of the warm season. It can be a balcony, terrace or garden.

In autumn and winter, it is necessary to regularly ventilate the room. This is the best prevention of the spread of fungal diseases.

Priming

The soil in the pot should not be too fertile, otherwise the green mass will grow without flowering. You can buy a ready-made substrate created specifically for geraniums. need loose and moderately dense.

You can cook it yourself, you will need:

• sheet (turf) land;
• peat;
• sand.

The components are taken in equal proportions. It turns out a light mixture with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction.

Advice. Geranium roots need air to get enough of it, loosen the ground after watering.

Choosing the best location

Pelargoniums need good lighting all year round. A pot with a plant is best placed on the south or east side. In winter, artificial lighting is required. Use fluorescent or phytolamps. Geranium needs coolness, in summer the recommended temperature is 18-25 °, in winter - 13-15 °. It is not desirable to drop the temperature below 10 °.

Irrigation liquid should be soft, a lot of salts contained in tap water, can destroy the shrub. It is defended for 2-3 days or cleaned with a filter. In areas where the environment is favorable, rainwater can be used for irrigation.

Temperature - room temperature cold water causes root rot. Moisturizing during the growing season is required every 2-3 days. good drainage in the form of a layer of expanded clay at the bottom of the pot will help to avoid stagnant water. excess liquid, which has leaked into the pan, is immediately drained.

How often to water? The exact watering schedule is created individually, taking into account the size of the pot and the temperature in the room. The main thing to take into account is the rule that the next moistening is done after the topsoil has dried. In winter, the volume of watering decreases (you can find out how to care for homemade geraniums in winter and whether it can be moved to the basement). Spraying the plant is contraindicated. Top dressing of pelargonium is required in spring and summer, during the flowering period.

Transfer

Geranium does not require frequent transplants, they are performed in two cases: a tight pot or soil contamination. The signal to transfer to a new pot is the germination of the roots through the drainage holes. The new container should be 2-3 cm larger in diameter. The use of ceramic pots is recommended. A drainage layer of expanded clay or gravel must be poured at the bottom. In the process of transplantation, it becomes possible to inspect the root system. Sick roots are cut off.

Important! The optimal period for the procedure is early spring. Plants tolerate stress without problems, perceiving the transplant as a development stimulation.

One of the main features of the maintenance of pelargonium is the need for pruning and pinching the bushes. Procedures are carried out at the end of February. Before the active growing season.

Pruning provides several benefits:

1. allows you to get rid of dead and diseased parts of the plant;
2. stimulates the growth of young shoots;
3. prevents growth in the middle of the plant, which leads to a deterioration in air exchange and lighting.

For cutting, a sharp knife is used, the cut is performed above the leaf node with the kidney. When removing infected branches, it is necessary to capture at least 5 cm of a healthy area. Sections are treated with fungicide ("Topaz") ​​or crushed charcoal. After the lateral shoots grow by 3-4 leaf nodes, they are pinched (the top is torn off). From the leaf axils, new branches will begin to grow, on which flower stalks are formed.

After completing the formation of the bush, the plant is fertilized. Suitable top dressing with nitrogen, stimulating the growth of geraniums. Information. Cut cuttings are used for propagation. In February-March, the highest probability of rooting of shoots.

We talked in detail about how to cut a geranium so that it is fluffy, and from you you will learn how to properly pinch a flower so that it is healthy and blooms beautifully.

Watch a video about the secrets of pruning pelargonium:

Mistakes of beginner gardeners

Novice flower growers often choose a large, spacious pot for a plant. It is not right. In such a container, geranium grows roots, without tying buds for a long time. should be small, then flowering will begin faster. Preparation for spring flowering should begin in winter. It is recommended to keep geraniums in a cool place during this period. A plant standing in a warm room often does not bloom for years.

How to care for it to bloom?

Large buds, abundant and long flowering- this is the dream of every geranium lover (read how to properly care for geraniums at home). Help the plant in our power. During the period of laying geranium buds, more is required nutrients and micronutrients. In addition to special fertilizing with fertilizers, the use of pharmacy iodine is recommended (you can find out how to properly use iodine with hydrogen peroxide to feed geraniums). A solution is prepared at a dosage of 1 drop of iodine per 1 liter of water. The drug is thoroughly stirred for uniform dissolution. At one time use 50 ml of the composition. Watering is done along the edge of the pot.

Advice! Timely removal of wilted peduncles helps to prolong flowering. Potassium-phosphorus fertilizers will help stimulate flowering. They dissolve in water for irrigation. carried out at intervals of two weeks. In winter, fertilizers are not needed.

We watch a video about the use of iodine for the lush flowering of geraniums:

Below are photos of geraniums in a pot:

Diseases pursuing pelargonium can be divided into two groups:

• arising from violations of agricultural technology;
• infectious.

Reference! The first group includes deficiency and excess of trace elements, freezing, sunburn or drying from high temperature. These problems are not contagious, they concern one plant. A common misfortune of pelargonium is the appearance yellow spots on the leaves.

The causes of the disease are different:

• only the tips dry and turn yellow - lack of moisture;
• leaves wither, rot and fall off - soil overflow;
• pallor and yellowness of leaves, stretching of shoots - lack of lighting;
• adaptation after transplantation can provoke a painful condition.

Chlorosis is a violation of photosynthesis due to iron deficiency. The disease is manifested by a change in color and growth retardation. Similarly affects the lack of other elements - magnesium, nitrogen, potassium. Decision - mineral complex with all necessary components.

Infectious diseases affect plants with a weakened immune system. Pelargonium is most often infected with fungi or bacteria through waterlogged soil. At the first manifestations of rot or other damage, it is recommended to isolate it. Among fungal infections, blackleg is common. The disease affects young cuttings, less often adult plants. The stalk will have to be thrown away, and the top of the geranium is cut off and rooted.

Gray rot is manifested by weeping spots on leaves and peduncles. Fungicides are used to treat it. Root rot is the most dangerous, it is detected late. In the advanced stage, the plant cannot be saved. The fungus completely corrodes the tissues of the roots.

Pests rarely attack geraniums. But on weakened plants, you can see the whitefly, aphids, mealybugs. Infected plants are treated with insecticides: Aktara, Fitoverm, Aktellik. The consequence of the use of insecticides and fungicides can be the drying of all.

How to revive?

In the event of a fatal state of the plant, some manipulations should be done:

1. It is necessary to remove all affected leaves, leaving only the stems.
2. Remove the geranium from the pot and inspect the root. If he is in order, the plant can be revived.
3. The root is carefully released from the old soil, in which the chemical preparation is present.
4. A pot of a similar size is prepared, filled with a moist substrate.
5. Geranium is planted in new soil. The pot is placed in a bright, cool place.
6. A few days later, the earth is moistened with a solution of Epin, a growth stimulant that helps to cope with stress.
7. After the appearance of the first leaves, it is recommended to take it out to fresh air or rearrange it in a sunny place.

Geranium is not only a beautiful indoor plant, pleasing with long flowering. Its aroma has a calming effect, improves sleep. Growing geraniums in a pot will not cause problems if you immediately follow the recommendations for keeping conditions.

Useful video

Watch a video about growing pelargonium at home:

Indoor geraniums are of two types: ampelous and compact bush. Curly and squat varieties are grown on window sills in ordinary pots. House plants have large and bright flowers, oblong fruits and a pleasant aroma that repels insect pests. The most popular species is the zonal geranium, but gardeners grow both the fragrant and the royal variety. The flower belongs to the group undemanding plants but even he needs proper care.

Ultraviolet

Ornamental geranium bushes, also called pelargonium and crail, live on southern windowsills in winter. A plant devoid of ultraviolet light is stretched, and its leaves and inflorescences become small and faded. In spring, the indoor flower moves to the southeast window. Here it is until late autumn.

In summer, geraniums tan in direct sunlight. Pelargonium is not afraid of burns, it actively absorbs ultraviolet radiation and turns it into energy. Geraniums are not recommended to be placed in the shade, otherwise the bush will become lethargic and weak, and will not be able to resist fungus and insects. The main thing is to turn the pot daily so that the light falls on all sides of the crail.

Pelargonium does not like only the midday summer sun. The liquid from the leaves and petals evaporates under the influence of non-scattered ultraviolet radiation, and burns remain on the surface. From 12 noon to 2-3 pm, the geranium pot is removed from the windowsill and placed on a shelf or stand next to the window so that subdued sunlight falls on the bush.

In winter, pelargonium must be illuminated with phytolamps. Special equipment, which is sold in garden shops and department stores, compensates for the lack of natural UV light. Lamps increase the length of daylight hours and provide geraniums with artificial sunlight necessary for photosynthesis. The leaves of a pelargonium devoid of ultraviolet light turn pale and fall off, and new ones grow small and inconspicuous.

Watering

Ornamental shrub refers to drought-resistant plants. In the root system, which is constantly flooded, a fungus appears. Mold provokes rotting of the flower, leads to its death. With a lack of water, the stems and leaves become pale green, and the inflorescences become small and deformed.

In winter, the substrate in a pot of geraniums is moistened three times a month. In spring, the frequency of watering is increased by 2–2.5 times. In summer, water is added after the topsoil has dried. In the hot months, the flower is watered every 2-3 days.

Pelargonium root system reacts negatively to impurities heavy metals. Harmful additives reduce the quality of the substrate and slow down metabolic processes geraniums. The soil is moistened with melted or distilled water. The liquid from the tap is defended for at least 3-4 days. Only the top layer is drained, in which there is a minimum of harmful additives. Rainwater is collected in summer and autumn.

Geranium can not be sprayed from a spray bottle. It tolerates low humidity and dry air well, but can get sick due to water droplets left on the leaves and stem. Water heated to room temperature is poured directly onto the root. use plastic bottles or special watering cans with a thin spout.

Watering is reduced by 2-3 times if:

• leaves become sluggish;
• a white or gray coating appeared on the bush;
• the substrate exudes an unpleasant putrefactive odor;
• the stalk of the geranium turned black;
• leaves or roots rot.

A flower infected with mold will only be saved by an emergency transplant into a new pot with a dry substrate.

Pelargonium leaves should not be washed or wiped with a damp cloth. Dust is removed with dry sponges. In a pot designed for an ornamental bush, there should be drainage holes. The geranium root system accumulates as much water as the flower needs for normal development. The excess flows into trays. The remaining moisture is poured out. Mold thrives in stagnant water.

Temperature regime and top dressing

Geranium at +12 and below sheds leaves. Bare bushes are defenseless and weak, they die at sub-zero temperatures. In winter, pelargonium rests at + 13–15. The plant hibernates and recovers. In spring and summer, in the room in which the pot of geraniums is located, the temperature is maintained from +18 to +24–25. Capacity helps to reduce degrees cold water or pieces of ice, which are placed next to the plant. The liquid gradually evaporates, increasing the humidity of the air and protecting the root system of the ornamental bush from drying out.

Top dressing in winter is applied once every 1.5–2 months. A flower that is in the hibernation stage does not need recharge. Large dose mineral fertilizers starts the vegetation, which weakens the pelargonium. Feeding frequency increases with early spring up to 1 time per week. Feeds are added to the substrate, which contain micro- and macroelements:

• nitrogen;
• zinc;
• potassium;
• manganese;
• phosphorus;
• calcium;
• iron;
• copper.

Mineral fertilizers provide violent flowering and stimulate the growth of the root system. They use complex recharges, for example, the "Merry Flower Girl". At home, preparations are made from nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, mixed in equal proportions. But homemade options do not give the plant all the necessary components.

Organic fertilizers are contraindicated. Feeds are diluted with water in a ratio of 1 to 4. Too concentrated products burn the root system of the flower. Fertilizers are applied after abundant watering so that they are better absorbed. Stimulants are not used during the heat. High temperatures combined with mineral nutrition are stressful for pelargonium.

Top dressing is introduced into the new land 3–3.5 months after transplantation. An ornamental bush is fertilized in the morning so that it has time to absorb useful components during the day.

Shaping and trimming

At the end of November, the pelargonium, which has shed its last petal, is prepared for winter. Remove the upper part of the bush to provide air access to the lower sheets and protect the plant from the fungus. Crossing branches are also cut off in late autumn, which interfere with each other and slow down the development of geraniums. indoor flower cleaned of diseased, dry and rotting parts.

Removal of dead zones and tops is carried out with a sharp pruner or knife. The blade is wiped with antiseptics or pure alcohol before cutting. Next to the pot put a bowl of crushed activated carbon. Sorbent is sprinkled on the places of cuts so that microbes and fungus do not get into the open wounds of the plant. Disinfectant powder is also prepared from charcoal.

5 cm recede from the rotting or infected area. The diseased area is removed along with a piece of a healthy branch. Pinch green shoots with clean fingers. The procedure is carried out when 4 leaf nodes are formed on a young branch. After 12 weeks, flower stalks form from them.

Cut and branches directed to the outside. top shoots are removed with sharp scissors, leaving only leaf nodules with buds. The procedure does not allow geranium branches to grow inside the bush. If there are too many shoots, they will close the substrate and root system from the sun, creating favorable conditions for mold growth.

Planned pruning for the formation of pelargonium is carried out in the fall. Parts of the plant that are too stretched or deformed can be removed in the spring. In summer and winter, they refrain from the procedure so as not to injure the geranium. The exception is branches and shoots affected by fungus or rot. They are removed immediately to prevent the spread of infection.

Storing geraniums in winter

Pots of trimmed geraniums are cleaned in warm room with low air humidity. Protect bushes from pests, fungus and drafts. The room is periodically ventilated. Plants need fresh air for recovery and normal development. The soil is loosened and checked to see how much water is in it. The substrate should be slightly damp, but not wet, otherwise the root system will begin to rot.

Indoor geraniums are stored in a dry way:

1. After the buds wither, the ornamental bush is removed from the pot. They don't cut.
2. Several geraniums are tied together and hung from the ceiling.
3. In the room intended for storing pelargoniums, the temperature is maintained from +3 to +8.
4. Humidity should be at least 75%. Flowers are periodically dipped in water at room temperature so that the root system does not dry out.
5. At the beginning of spring, more than half of the ornamental bush is cut. An indoor flower is planted in a pot with a prepared substrate, watered and fertilized.

Subject to all the rules, geraniums will have new shoots and peduncles with large quantity large and bright buds.

Substrate and pot

Pelargonium takes root in wooden boxes, plastic and ceramic pots. But the parameters of the flowerpots must correspond to the size of the root system of the plant. Young geraniums are planted in small pots, and perennial old bushes in large boxes. The main thing is that the roots occupy the entire container. Mold often grows in empty ground, and insects breed.

Ornamental bushes are transplanted into a loose substrate that allows air to pass through. The soil for geraniums is prepared at home from four components:

• leaf and sod land;
• peat;
• coarse sand.

Coconut fibers, bark and other components do not need to be added. Sometimes leaf ground replaced with manure. Then they take 4 kg of soil, 1 kg of peat and a second fertilizer, as well as 500–600 g of river sand. The soil brought from the garden or vegetable garden is calcined in an oven or in a double boiler. The sand is washed hot water. A mixture of all components is disinfected with a cool solution of manganese.

When choosing a pot, preference is given to clay options with drainage holes. Plastic varieties retain water in the substrate, so mold often appears in such flowerpots. Crushed brick, expanded clay or grated polystyrene must be poured at the bottom of the geranium container. The drainage layer protects against fluid stagnation and fungus.

The soil is loosened with special spatulas before watering to saturate the substrate with oxygen and check the moisture level.

Geranium is transplanted in two cases:

• When she has outgrown the pot, and the root system looks out from under the ground.
• A fungus started up in the soil due to abundant watering.

Transshipment is carried out in spring or autumn. The pot is doused with boiling water before the procedure. During the adaptation period, the plant is not watered or fertilized.

In summer, a pot of pelargonium is taken out to a balcony or loggia, left in the garden under the trees. The flower loves fresh air, but even from a small draft it can die.

Geranium with proper care annually pleases bright inflorescences. On some peduncles, up to 30 buds are formed. Pelargonium is one of the best options for beginners and forgetful gardeners, because it endures drought, direct sunlight and even heat. The main thing is to feed and cut the decorative bush in a timely manner, periodically water and loosen the substrate.

Video: proper care for geraniums