Pelargonium zonal - a bright decoration of the garden. Types of pelargonium with photos and descriptions

Geranium is a predominantly perennial (most often herbaceous) plant belonging to the geranium family. There are also shrub species. It is characterized by large (usually 5 petal) flowers of various colors. Each sheet is a separate plate with smooth edges or dissected like individual fingers. The shape of the fruit is a box, resembling the long nose of a crane.

Growing geraniums is so easy that you can say: "Geranium is the most unpretentious culture." Moreover, it does not matter whether it grows in your garden, being a real geranium, recognized by botanical classifications, or is located in an apartment on the windowsill. In the second case, the home flower can only conditionally be called a geranium, since most likely it will belong to another genus of the same family - pelargoniums.

Pelargoniums differ from geraniums in the irregular symmetry of the flower petals, the presence of a special narrow strip of nectar at one of the petals, the number of flowers collected together in one bright inflorescence. And, of course, frost resistance. Since Africa is the birthplace of pelargonium, this houseplant can tolerate winter time only in warmth. A real geranium, which came from the alpine meadows of Europe, from North America will calmly overwinter in temperate climate northern hemisphere even in the wild.

Planting a geranium

Landing methods

When planting geraniums in the open, it is best to use seedlings purchased or grown in advance. In this case, it is necessary to plant, choosing not too light soils. Geranium is a plant that loves loose, but rather heavy soils. In the flower garden, it is not recommended to thicken the plantings. 12-15 plants per square meter are enough to make them feel good.

When landing in an apartment, choose sunny places, and do not be afraid of the brightest rays. Pelargonium, in extreme cases, can discolor the leaves a little, but then it will calmly recover. Choose a flower pot not too small, with good drainage. Water generously for the first week. This also applies to outdoor types of geraniums and domestic pelargoniums.

Optimal landing time

In order for geraniums to please you on the site, it is better to plant them in open ground after the threat of night frosts, which for Middle lane Russia means - the beginning of June.

If you want to put a new flower on the windowsill, do this at any time except autumn. Spring, summer and even the end of winter - right time for planting pelargoniums. They will be able to eat solar energy for further overwintering.

soil for the plant

When choosing soil for pelargoniums, you can use ready-made mixtures of their stores, or you can make them yourself in the following proportion:

sod land - 2 parts;
leaf humus - 2 parts;
sand - 1 part;
peat - 1 part.

Some recipes mention clay as a substrate component. In this case, you need to take a share of clay and sand and add 3 shares of compost land there.

Location and lighting for the plant

Geranium is a very sun-loving plant. It withstands both the bright sun without any shading (in this case it blooms profusely and magnificently), and the usual light of windows facing north. But in this case, additional illumination will be necessary for flowering. When in the spring (already in April) daily air temperatures begin to exceed 10 degrees, geraniums can (and should) be taken out into the street. And with the departure of the likelihood of frost, you can completely move the pots of geraniums to Fresh air.

Air humidity

Humidity does not matter much for geraniums. But what you definitely should not do is spray the plant on the leaves. It's more likely to do harm than good. But what

Temperature regime for a flower

Pelargonium prefers moderate temperatures. In summer, about 20 degrees, in winter - about 15. Do not overcool the flower with temperatures below 10 degrees. This can lead to irreversible consequences and the loss of the plant.

How to water correctly

Pelargonium should be watered like any other home flower. In moderation, avoiding constant waterlogging of the soil. Usually watered once or twice a week in summer. Ideally, you should not set a fixed watering schedule. The main thing to watch out for is that the clod of earth on top has time to dry out in the period from watering to the next watering. Since it is always better to under-water than over-water, you can also water on a tray, allowing the soil to absorb the right amount of moisture and draining excess water after a few hours.

But don't dry it out either. In winter, watered on average once every 10 days.
How many types of pelargonium exist, so many different options soil moisture. After all, royal pelargonium loves watering very much, and zonal - much less.

Flower nutrition and fertilizer

When you want to achieve good and abundant flowering Pelargonium, feed it once a week. V mineral fertilizers give the predominance of potassium and phosphorus components.

In winter, it is better to either completely stop fertilizing or do it no more than 1 time per month.

pruning

Pruning geraniums (pelargonium) is simply necessary:

a compact decorative appearance is formed;
the process of future flowering is more powerful;
using pruning, cuttings are obtained for breeding new plants

Trimming methods

Pruned either selectively or completely mother plant. Tools are clean and disinfected. Knife, pruner, razor should be sharp enough.

Geranium transplant

You only need to repot geraniums when you see that the pot is getting too small for the plant. This can happen either when buying a finished flower in a store or when growing. Young plants are transplanted once or twice a year. Then you don't have to do it.

Transplant methods

Since geranium takes root remarkably and does not require much effort, transplantation can be carried out by transshipment (when a lump of earth is carefully rearranged entirely into a larger pot and filled with earth). If the roots are damaged by the disease, then it is better to clean the roots from the previous filler and plant them already in new pot with new soil.

Geranium propagation

Geraniums are propagated in order to obtain new plants that will eventually replace the old ones. It is much easier and faster to do this than with representatives of many other families.

Of course, there are exceptions here too. So rarer varieties bred recently by breeders require specific conditions and efforts. But basically pelargonium breeds without difficulty.

Reproduction methods

If the geranium is ampelous, then it is possible to cut off individual cuttings for propagation. In order for your bush pelargonium (low, compact) to remain as attractive, usually cut off all the stems, leaving 2-3 cm.

Sequencing:

the stalk is cut at an angle;
cut off all buds and leaves, leaving 3-4 buds;
dry the cutting (5-7 cm long) in the air (can be treated with coal dust);
planted in water or small cups with well-drained and disinfected soil;
provide constant maintenance of humidity and temperature of about 20 degrees.

In some cases, seed propagation is practiced for geraniums. In this case optimal time planting seeds - spring. To facilitate the process, you can use peat tablets.

Flowering period, flower shape

It is impossible to give specific dates for the flowering of geraniums. Depending on the variety and even on the conditions of detention, it can bloom all year round. Flowers are also unimaginably diverse in both color and shape.

There are flowers similar to roses in doubleness and size, they are similar to stars or tulips. But the usual flowering time is spring, summer and early autumn.

Plant care after flowering

In autumn, when the vegetation and flowering period is over, it is recommended to prepare geraniums for winter rest. To do this, the plant is cut off (optional), flower stalks are removed necessarily in order to avoid decay, watered and cleaned in more cool place, limiting for a dormant period and watering and top dressing.

Problems, diseases and pests in a flower

Geraniums in nature have practically no pests. Flower diseases can be divided into two categories: viral and fungal. Fungal infections tend to spread rather slowly and are much easier to treat. Viral (bacterial) ones are almost not treatable, it is easier to start another copy of the plant, destroying the one that suddenly fell ill with the infection together.

In room conditions, the plant can get sick:

root or stem rot;
leaf spot;
fungus Botrytis;
bacteriosis;
leaf rust.

Root (stem) rot is caused by the fungus Pythium or Rhizoctonia. Characteristic of this disease are the stems and leaves that first become brown and then black. In the future, the entire flower undergoes decay and dies.

Control measures: control of soil and air humidity, the use of antifungal drugs.

Spotting is caused by the fungus Alternaria (leaf damage in the form of brown spots with yellow patches), or Cercospora fungus (leaf defects in the form of pale spots, turning into a grayish coating).

Prevention of the disease is similar to all antifungal. Namely: removing excess moisture, preventing the growth of green mass for accelerated drying.

The fungus Botrytis begins with spots on the leaves with a grayish coating, on the stems - Brown. Sometimes the disease occurs from high humidity, sometimes from the fact that the falling flowers are not removed in time and remain on the leaves, creating weeping areas.

Prevention methods- watering without affecting the leaves, timely picking up wilted flowers. Watering is recommended to be done in the morning, so that the water has time to dry before the cool night time. In case of disease, it is necessary to fight by removing infected parts and whole plants.

Bacteriosis can be very difficult to diagnose because its symptoms vary depending on the different varieties. But the progress of the disease is fast. Viruses destroy the plant with brown spots, deformed veins, etc.

Leaf rust shows up as spots yellow color first on the upper surface of the sheet, passing then to its lower side. On the lower surfaces, clumps with spores form, which open and form a rim in the form of rusty stitches. Spreading, spores infect the entire leaf, leading to its death.

Ways to protect the plant - prevent the accumulation of water on the leaves, avoid high humidity during low temperatures, inspect the flower from time to time and remove the infected parts, and then carry out the treatment with fungicides.

Popular species (varieties)

Among the varieties of street geranium can be identified:

swamp;

blood red;

Himalayan.

Pelargoniums can be divided into:

a huge assortment of zonal pelargoniums (due to a specially colored zone in the middle of the flower);

ivy pelargoniums (ampelous) with whip-like flexible stems;

varieties of varieties royal (large-flowered) »;

several types of pelargoniums at once, united by the common name "type of Angels";

fragrant pelargoniums;
some others.

Very interesting are the varieties bred by breeders with heterogeneous leaf color - the so-called variegated varieties.

Very different in appearance and growth conditions separate view pelargonium - succulent pelargonium. These are exotic plants with lignified trunks, and in some cases even with thorns.

Some gardeners practice a noteworthy way to get geraniums to bloom profusely: watering with iodine. This is done as follows: one drop of iodine 5% alcohol tincture dissolves in a liter of water and 50 ml of such a mixture is poured onto each plant (trying to pour not on the roots in the middle, but closer to the walls of the pot).

It is also useful to remember that geranium loves fresh air and until late autumn pots with pelargonium can grow on balconies, loggias and even in the garden.

Answers to questions from readers

plant life span

Perennial bush varieties of geraniums can grow in one place for up to 20 years. But in the case of growing heat-loving pelargonium at home, it makes sense to completely change the flower to a completely renewed one every 5 years. After all, decorative properties deteriorate after 2-3 years of growth. Therefore, the targeted formation of the bush is very important.

Can this plant be kept at home?

Indoor geranium (pelargonium) remains one of the most common and beloved inhabitants of our homes. With ease of care, this flower has a very beautiful appearance and is distinguished by a huge variety of varieties.

Even people who are not fond of feng shui and horoscopes claim that geranium creates a special comfort in the house and, as it were, calms, heals the atmosphere of the apartment, and relieves stress.

Is this flower poisonous?

Some types of pelargonium are so rich in essential oils that the word "fragrant" is even added to their name. This smell basically plays a very positive role in our lives. There is air disinfection, bringing healing aromas into our atmosphere of closed spaces. Even the fact that domestic animals are unlikely to eat a strong-smelling plant will benefit both the plant and the animal.

The exception is allergy sufferers. But this is a special article. And even such people may develop an allergy, or vice versa, to facilitate breathing and the condition of the body. The question is very individual. The only thing - in general, geranium (pelargonium) is not toxic.

Why won't geraniums bloom?

When a plant decorates itself with flowers, it means that it is completely comfortable and has enough of everything: moisture, light, useful substances. Usually geraniums (pelargoniums) bloom profusely and for a long time. But if even such an undemanding flower upsets the lack of flowering, then it needs to be added. Feed (in moderation). You can try to put additional lighting.
Remember that in winter a flower may simply request a rest and not bloom for some time (usually until spring) for physiological reasons. But after a dormant period, it will bloom brightly and magnificently. But if you did not provide him with this rest and the winter was not cool and calm for him, then in the summer you can quite naturally lose this flowering.

There is another interesting point: when the container for the flower is taken too spacious, the plant will most likely increase the foliage mass. And only when the roots fill the pot in the normal way, the growth of greenery will stop or slow down and the time will come for flowering.

Why does geranium turn yellow and dry

There is no single answer to this question. First of all, it is necessary to distinguish between the natural process of dying off of old (mandatory lower) leaves and a more disturbing yellowing with loss of turgor of the upper leaves.
If the leaves began to turn yellow en masse, then reconsider the watering regimen. The plant is likely to dry out. But it also happens that brown spots are added to the yellowing. This is already a sign of waterlogging, and maybe even a disease and the plant needs treatment, or even more correctly, its transplantation and re-growing an already healthy flower.

Plants stretched upwards with thin bare stems make it clear that they do not have enough light. Add artificial lighting or move to more sunny windows.

Geranium care in winter.

Again, we will divide the topic for indoor pelargoniums and for those geranium bushes that grew in the garden in the summer, and now it's time to protect them from the coming cold weather.

Dig up the geranium completely, gently shake off the roots from the ground and hang, tying in bunches with other dug specimens, providing high humidity(at least 80%) and coolness (from 2 to 8 degrees). Once every two weeks, it is recommended to additionally moisten the roots by dipping them in water. Such landless (dry) storage will allow the flower to hibernate and rest, gather strength for new seasons of growth and flowering, before which you should not forget to cut the roots and twigs by a third.
Plants are dug up, the roots are significantly shortened and planted in prepared pots in a cool place. At the same time, they carefully monitor the moisture entering the plant. It is equally harmful to both pour and dry the flower. Lighting is greatly reduced. You can characterize the conditions of winter overexposure of geraniums as twilight.

For a houseplant, it is also necessary to change the care in winter period:

move from heating appliances drying the air to a cooler place;
reduce watering;
reduce or even stop feeding.

In winter, flower growers are faced with such a phenomenon as the acquisition of reddish-reddish color by pelargonium leaves.

Why do geranium leaves turn red?

The reason is that the plant freezes. Check if it is close to the cold glass of the window or if there is a draft directed directly at the plant. "Warming" the flower, you will get rid of this phenomenon. It will be useful to put a pot of geraniums in advance on a base that does not conduct heat well (wood, foam plastic) and move the leaves away from the icy touch of window panes.

Pelargonium from seeds at home is easy to grow. The main thing is to follow all the rules and conditions for such a plant. This flower is also known as geranium. Caring for her is very simple, but this plant will decorate any room, garden, balcony, etc.

How to germinate pelargonium seeds

Growing from geranium seeds depends largely on preparatory phase, it is necessary to choose the right seed, soil, arrange a miniature greenhouse. It must be remembered that zone-type geraniums are best suited for the seed germination method. The rest can also be bred this way, but it is best to use a different method.

First of all, you need to deal with planting material. To avoid various difficulties and mistakes, it must be properly prepared. When choosing seeds, it is necessary to pay attention to such factors:

Hue. If the seeds are of good quality, they should have a dark brown color, but a slight deviation is allowed.
Form. In fully formed and developed seeds, the shape is oblong, and small depressions are located on the sides.
Dimensions. The size of the planting material is small.
outer layer. Geranium seeds have a rather dense leathery shell.

If planting material all these qualities are present, then you can safely use it for germination. But if flattening, small deformations, spots on the seeds appear, then you should not expect germination.

Before planting, the seed must undergo special preparation. This is due to the fact that the top layer of geranium seeds is very dense, which prevents them from germinating. Sometimes you have to wait a very long time for sprouts to appear, but the seeds never germinate. The reason in this case is that the seeds were processed incorrectly.

Before placing them in the ground, it is necessary to carry out a scarification procedure, i.e. remove the thick film. To do this, it is recommended to use ordinary sandpaper. Thanks to her, it turns out to remove only the upper layer, but at the same time there are no deep cracks and gaps. Each seed is supposed to be processed separately, it is enough to rub just a few times.

The preparation stage also includes the choice of soil. The mixture should be nutritious, but light. It must pass air and water to the root system of the flower. You can buy ready-made substrates in the store or cook it yourself. In the latter case, there are several options. First, you can mix perlite and peat in parts. Secondly, it is recommended to take 2 parts of sand and peat. Thirdly, you can use a different composition: mix humus, sand, compost and peat in equal volumes. Before use, the substrate is disinfected. To do this, put it in the oven for a few minutes. You can also use additional fungicides.

It is best to plant the seeds in February or March, this is the ideal time. It is necessary to place them in the ground, sprinkle with a little substrate and spray abundantly with water from a spray bottle. The air temperature should be approximately + 21 ... + 22ºС. To make seedlings appear faster, the seeds can be soaked in ordinary clean water room temperature. Keep them like this for no more than 3 hours. When the seeds are placed in the ground, cover the container with cling film or glass. As soon as the leaves begin to appear on the stem, you can completely remove such a device.

Different types of pelargonium and aspects of their germination

Royal pelargonium is considered capricious, so when growing such a flower, it is often necessary to pay attention to it. Homeland is South America, unlike other subspecies. This type of geranium is planted at the beginning of winter. Do not allow direct drafts and sunlight. This variety prefers high humidity. For disembarkation, you must select primer lung type that needs to be kept slightly damp at all times. The temperature in the room where the royal pelargonium is located should be at least 20ºС. For the first time shoots can be seen in about 3 weeks. As soon as they appear, it is necessary to put the container with sprouts in a room where the temperature is not less than 15ºС. These varieties include Fairy Queen, Dirwood Angel Eyes, Charmy Electro, Ansbrock Beauty, etc.

As for the ampelous geranium, it will also be possible to breed it with seeds. Homeland is the southern part of the African continent. The plant is also considered quite capricious, but if you pay a lot of attention to it, then the flowering will not only be beautiful, but also very lush. Due to this, ampelous varieties of pelargonium are very popular in the design of verandas, playgrounds. open type, hanging flower beds. Shoots can grow up to 1 m in length. It is necessary to place the fruits of the flower in the soil, which is pre-moistened. Then everything goes according to standard technology. Ampelous varieties of geraniums are very capricious in terms of growing plants from seeds, so many people prefer to use cuttings.

Pelargonium zonal also usually grows in the wild in South Africa. These varieties are easily propagated through seeds. Germination technology is standard. TO zonal pelargonium include rosaceous, tulip-shaped, star-shaped, clove and other varieties.

Pelargonium of the ivy type is distinguished by the flexibility of the stem, which is why it begins to curl. Shoots in length can be up to 1 m. Such varieties are great when you need to decorate balconies, verandas, make hanging soda. The germination technique is typical, but the main thing is to maintain soil moisture and a certain air temperature. It is best to sow at the beginning of winter, but it will be possible to do this until mid-spring.

How to care for pelargonium after germination

How to grow pelargonium from seeds is a mystery to many people. It is customary for everyone to immediately purchase a ready-made flower in a pot, and then take care of it so that it is strong, healthy and beautiful. Geraniums require timely watering, loosening the soil, fertilizing, pinching, and so on.

Common mistake many beginner gardeners is that they over-moisten the soil. This leads to the development of such a disease as a black leg. It develops rapidly and destroys all landings. To prevent such a problem, it is necessary to monitor the frequency of watering, the rate of drying of the soil, and also make a drainage layer and special holes at the bottom of the pot.

Irrigation is very important. Seedlings should be watered as they dry out. You can't overfill them. When a pick is carried out, after which they are located in different containers, it is recommended to water no more than 2 times a week. In winter, the frequency of watering should be reduced - no more than 1 time per week. The next day after watering, it is always necessary to loosen upper layer soil in a pot.

Another important condition is the application of fertilizer, since it will be difficult for the plant to do without top dressing. The first time it is necessary to fertilize 2 weeks after the pick. For this, any complex fertilizer with a high content of phosphorus and potassium is perfect. For example, it is recommended to use the Agricol composition. Fertilizer is supposed to be applied 2 times a month. In winter, the procedure is not carried out.

Growing geraniums from seeds involves proper lighting. Young seedlings need enough light. It is recommended to put the pots on the windows on the west or east side. If you have to put a container with seedlings on the south side, then you must first darken the window from direct sunlight, which can damage delicate foliage even in winter. During active growth and development of pelargonium shoots, a minimum of 16 hours of lighting is required. If light natural origin is not enough, then in the evening it is necessary to build additional lighting. Perfect option- phytolamps, then you can get by with ordinary sodium and fluorescent ones. In the summer, it is recommended to take pots with such flowers to the garden, balcony, terrace.

Concerning temperature regime, then in the room where the geranium is located, it should be approximately + 20 ... + 25Cº. In winter, an adult and mature flower is able to survive a short-term decrease in temperature to + 10Cº. But for young plants it will be fatal.

Picking and pinching are very important. So that every flower root system was sufficiently developed, grown seedlings must be transplanted into new containers. Picking should be carried out after 2-3 true leaves appear on them. The diameter of the containers should be approximately 10 cm. It is best to take tall, but narrow containers. If you want the seedlings to stretch, then they are allowed to deepen a little into the ground.

For the bush to have nice shape and was not excessively elongated, it is necessary to regularly carry out the pinching procedure. For the first time, it is supposed to be done after the 5th true leaf appears. Then pruning must be done in spring and autumn - all weak shoots must be cut off. It is recommended to stop molding the bush 1.5 months before the flowering period begins.

Diseases and pests

When growing pelargonium, difficulties may arise. For example, there are the following problems with foliage:

As for growth problems, the symptoms are as follows:

Slow growth - lack of room for roots in the pot, pest infestation, incorrect soil acidity.
Simultaneous scarcity of growth of the entire flower and yellowing of the foliage. The reason may be a lack of nitrogen.
Long-legged - there was no pinching or excessive watering and frequent feeding.
Spindle type growth - lack of sunlight;

Conclusion

Growing geraniums from seeds at home is really easy. You only need to create right conditions for the growth and development of this plant. And then it will delight healthy saturated hue foliage and frequent flowering. Germinating seeds is not difficult at all, even a beginner can handle it.

For almost a century, breeders around the world have been breeding new and new varieties of pelargonium. Thanks to their labors, an incredibly large number of various varieties and varieties of this ornamental plant. The culture is not overly demanding on growing conditions and, with proper care, will definitely answer you with lush luxurious flowering. Your attention detailed information about zonal pelargonium, as well as its best varieties (photos with names and descriptions are attached).

About zonal pelargonium

This is one of the most common plant groups, represented by a large number of species and varieties. Zonal varieties, belonging to the group of the same name, are considered for the reason that they have a certain zone on the leaves, painted in a different color (most often in the form of a small annular or rounded spot). Pelargonium zonal is perfect for growing not only indoors, but also in open areas.

The variety is represented by an erect, fairly branched and powerful bush, densely covered with foliage. The bush is covered with small lush flowers-umbrellas. The leaves are strongly pubescent, have a specific smell. Zonal pelargoniums are also divided into several varieties depending on the number of petals on the flowers. So, they are 5-8-petal (sometimes more).

Pelargonium - unpretentious plant

Zonal pelargonium is a plant that is quite unpretentious to growing conditions, but quite demanding for care. It is necessary to provide it with the right amount of solar heat and light, nutritious and regular top dressing, saturate it with moisture, etc.

Advice. In winter, it is necessary to provide the plant with sufficient access to cool air. If this is not possible, remove as many bare shoots from the plant as possible in the spring.

The main classification of zonal pelargonium

Zonal pelargoniums, in turn, can be divided into several subgroups:

Rosaceae. All varieties presented in this category have luxurious double flowers, outwardly very reminiscent of classic roses.

rosacea pelargonium

Tulip-shaped. Flowers of varieties from this group are small flowers collected in inflorescences. Outwardly, they resemble small unopened tulip-shaped buds. The petals of tulip-shaped pelargoniums are distinguished by a rather unusual appearance: they are slightly inclined inward and lowered, as if they had already begun to wither. This in no way means that the plants really wither. In fact, the sluggish appearance of the petals is a specific feature of the variety.

Tulip Pelargonium

Star-shaped. Star-shaped pelargoniums are completely different from their "compatriots": the flowers of these dwarf plants have unusual shape pointed star. Moreover, quite often the two largest petals have an elongated shape with a sharp end, which distinguishes them from the rest.

star pelargonium

Carnations. The varieties presented in this category are outwardly very similar to garden cloves: they are just as large, with carved petals of a fairly bright shade.

Carnation Pelargonium

Cactus. A fairly rare variety of zonal pelargonium, which is represented by a fairly large, strongly leafy bush. Leaves are broad and bright green. Flowers of cactus-like varieties look rather unusual: their petals seem to be folded into narrow tubes. Quite often they have a slightly "tousled" look.

cactus pelargonium

Deacons. Quite young hybrids appeared on the world flower market less than 50 years ago. Presented very compact abundantly flowering bush with a small flower rosette of soft peach, pink or red.

Pelargonium deacon

Let us consider in more detail several of the best representatives in each category of the zonal variety of pelargonium. Among the most popular rose varieties several can be distinguished:

April Snow - dwarf neat plant with small double flowers Pink colour in the form of roses.
Denise is a powerful plant that every year is covered with a large terry cap of pink or peach color.
Monseruds Rosen - not easy to grow - quite difficult to form the desired shape, has a luxurious burgundy flowering.

Among the most popular star varieties pelargonium can be distinguished as follows:

Aunty Pam - Stellar. The variety is represented by a fairly compact well-branched bush, densely covered with luxurious bright pink flower rosettes. Outwardly, the flower petals resemble a small terry carnation.
Borthwood - Stellar. Another excellent star-shaped variety, represented by a strongly flowering dwarf bush, the leaves of which are slightly shaped like frog legs.
fandango. A rather unusual variety, the flowers of which look slightly "shabby": the shape of the petals is slightly torn, with fuzzy edges. Flowering in plants is abundant, lush, the flowers are distinguished by a pleasant pale coral hue.

Pelargonium Fandango

Among cactus varieties pelargonium can be noted such.

Pelargonium zonal - has long been considered one of the most popular and unpretentious flowers for decorating residential and office space. However, this plant, which can be found in almost every home of flower lovers, knows more.

Appearance of zonal pelargonium

This flower was loved by our great-grandmothers. And sometimes it may seem that geranium is an old-fashioned and boring plant. However, selection does not stand still, and its results give new unusual and amazing varieties of pelargonium. Initially, this pelargonium was large in stature, and the flowering was inconspicuous - small. Modern hybrid varieties are low lush bushes with large beautiful inflorescences.

One of the most suitable for growing at home is the zonal pelargonium. This species is the most numerous. It includes about 75 thousand varieties. This geranium got its name because of the coloring of its flowers. They seem to have two color zones: the edges of the petals differ from the shade of the middle. Although this difference becomes almost imperceptible during the period of short daylight hours due to the lack of light. At the end of winter, the flowers again become unusual.

Flowers vary from variety to variety. There are varieties with double, semi-double and non-double flowers. They also differ in the number of petals. Some varieties have 5 on each flower, others may have more than 8.

Subgroups of pelargonium zonal

Pelargonium zonal, given the many varieties, has its own subgroups:

Rosaceous. hallmark is that this geranium has flowers similar to roses;
Tulip-shaped. Outwardly, the flowers are similar to dense unopened tulip buds;
Carnation. Due to the large carved petals, the flowers of plants from this subgroup resemble garden carnations;
stellate. This geranium differs not only in the shape of the petals, but also in the leaves. Their sharp, angular shape has something similar to a star;
cactus. Representatives of this subgroup are quite rare. The flowers have long twisted or curled petals. Outwardly, they resemble the flowering of a cactus dahlia;
- Deacons. This is one of the smallest varieties of geraniums. Flowering, on the contrary, they have plentiful and magnificent.

Content Rules

Despite its diversity, zonal pelargonium does not require large differences in conditions of detention. All varieties are quite unpretentious, minimal care is needed.

Growing this flower brings a lot of pleasure to its owner, both morally and in a healing effect. After all, it is believed that together with a fragrant aroma, geranium also distributes antibacterial substances and disinfects the air.

Lighting

The ideal cultivation of zonal pelargonium will be next to windows facing west or east. The plant does not tolerate too bright and direct rays, it is afraid of burns. If southern windows are chosen as habitat, the flower must be shaded.

Air temperature

Accompanied primarily by maintaining a stable temperature, since these geraniums do not tolerate sudden changes. V summer period the ideal range is from 20 to 25 degrees, in winter it is about 15, the critical lower mark is plus 7.

Soil Requirements

Soil requirements are similar to general requirement other geraniums. It should be a non-acidic soil around 6.0 pH. A good layer of drainage is required. Additional fertilizing should be avoided, as the plant may begin to fatten and negatively affect the flowering process. When compiling the substrate yourself, you need to make sure that there is no excess of peat, which can provoke moisture stagnation. Ideal proportions: an equal portion of peat, humus and turf, plus half a portion of sand. Growing in such soil will be the most favorable for the flower.

Watering mode

Care in the matter of watering should be regular. Geranium is required every other day in the summer months, in the winter it will be enough once a week - one and a half.

Feeding

It is necessary to make top dressing with the advent of March and until the end of August with a frequency of once every 15-20 days. The main emphasis should be on phosphorus and potassium. At other times of the year, it is not necessary to supplement care with top dressing.

Transfer

It is not recommended to transplant zonal pelargonium too often. This process negatively affects the plant and makes it weaker. He needs a lot of time and effort to recover. It is also worth remembering that this flower prefers to grow in a somewhat cramped container. This favorably affects the duration and splendor of flowering. And after an adult plant has become higher than 25 centimeters, it is generally no longer recommended to replant it. A transplant is necessary if the rhizome of the plant has grown too much and has already appeared in drainage hole. It is worth making a transplant in spring period.

reproduction

A good breeding option for this geranium is. To do this, choose apical cuttings in the spring, or early autumn. Selected cuttings are placed in water until the roots appear, which happens quite simply and quickly.

Diseases and pests

Insects that this pelargonium is afraid of are whitefly, and cyclamen mites, and aphids. These plants are also susceptible to fungal diseases such as gray rot.

If the leaves and stems take on a reddish hue, the geranium may be cold. You can also not over-moisten the soil. If this happens, and the stem at the base of the plant turns black, most likely the pelargonium will disappear.

If the plant is gaining green mass well and flowering does not occur for a long time, stop feeding the plant with fertilizers. But if the flower is rapidly stretching upwards, and the green part is very poor and rare, you need to provide the plant with more light. It is worth watering more often if the owner notices, or the appearance of brown spots on healthy leaves.

Growing and propagating fragrant pelargonium at home Basic rules for growing pelargonium from seeds and conducting the first pick Basic rules for growing geraniums from seeds and other propagation methods Features of caring for chlorophytum at home

Pelargonium is a plant of the geranium family, often referred to in everyday life as geranium. This one is not quite right, but it so happened that if we are talking about an indoor flower, it is still rarely called pelargonium. Meanwhile, geranium is a plant of a different kind, which does not even intersect with pelargonium, but belongs to the same family. Real geranium is an outdoor, perennial, cold-resistant plant. In room conditions, they have long been growing different kinds and varieties of pelargoniums. It's very decorative. home plant, which has undergone significant changes, thanks to the efforts of breeders, and has become even more beautiful.

Pelargonium is an easy flower to grow. Modern hybrids have adaptation properties and rare ones have special requirements for growing conditions. These plants are often on sale, and amateur flower growers also distribute surpluses of their collections. The cost of the flower is affordable.

Landing

Optimal time

On sale, pelargoniums appear in large numbers in the spring in the form of adult plants covered with buds and flowers. It is at this time that they appear in the house.

Landing method

In this form, it is not desirable to change the soil in them; the transport soil, slightly filled with nutrients on the farm, must be left on the roots. Therefore, planting implies at this time transshipment into another pot, with the addition of soil, if necessary, along the edges of the container. And one more thing: very often Dutch pets are planted in the ground without drainage, when buying from the bottom holes, overgrown roots are already visible. This encourages new plant owners to opt for a much larger pot. But this is wrong.

The pot is selected 1 - 3 cm larger in diameter and the same depth. Drainage is added to the bottom, covered with soil, the plant is removed from the transport pot and placed in a new one. The gaps are filled with earth, the plant is watered. Everything, the planting is done. It is better to put it in a cool and not brightly lit place for some time to adapt to new conditions.

substrate

For growing pelargoniums, ready-made universal soil, not particularly rich in organic matter, is quite suitable. Otherwise, too nutritious soil will contribute to the rapid development of foliage at the expense of flowering.

Care

Place and light

Pelargoniums love fairly bright lighting, but they prefer east or west to the south window in summer. In winter, they grow well on the south side. Many respond well to light shading during flowering - in this case, the corollas of flowers turn out to be more saturated in color, and the flowering itself lasts longer.

In winter, in the absence of a dormant period, it is necessary to provide very good lighting.

Air humidity

The plant does not require high humidity and spraying. The leaves of pelargoniums are arranged in such a way that the evaporation of moisture occurs very sparingly, and they do not suffer from the dryness of the surrounding air. After hygienic water procedures, the flower should not be exposed wet in the sun, it is necessary to wait for the leaves to dry completely in the shade.

Temperature

Pelargoniums are able to grow and develop well in summer at elevated temperatures, however, at moderate temperatures, the inflorescences on the plant last longer. That is why autumn bloom it is usually more lush and long-lasting than the summer season.

A cool habitat is also beneficial in winter, but this is not an absolute requirement: most modern hybrids grow and bloom well. all year round without temperature drop.

Watering

Pelargoniums do not like excessive watering. They require abundant, but not frequent soil moisture. Between irrigations, the soil should dry out quite strongly. In winter, at low temperatures, this is especially important - excess moisture can destroy the plant.

top dressing

Fertilizers are rarely used. After spring transplantation and summer flowering, fertilizing with phosphorus-potassium fertilizers is possible, but in no case with nitrogen. In winter, pelargoniums are not fed, no matter how they are kept at this time.

pruning

By spring, especially during a warm winter, the plant is very elongated, it becomes "ankle-legged", because. lower leaves fall, internodes increase. To increase the decorativeness of the bush, the branches are shortened.

Trimming method

No matter how the pelargonium grows during the winter, it should be cut into a stump no more than 15 cm high. This will help awaken dormant buds, which will give rise to new branches. The plant will be thick and strong.

The cut parts are divided into cuttings and used for propagation.

Transfer

In the spring, the plant is also transplanted. These procedures are convenient to combine.

Transplant method

After pruning, the stump is removed from the pot, the roots are cleaned of the old soil, straightened and cut. Having dipped the slices in charcoal, the plant is planted in a fresh earthen mixture. The pot can be used the same - the number of roots and branches has decreased, it is not required to increase the volume. The soil is well compacted, but not watered abundantly - there are still few leaves on the stump or they are absent at all, evaporation will be minimal. The first week after transplantation, pelargonium is kept in a shaded place.

reproduction

Another spring event held in the spring is breeding.

Reproduction methods

seminal: mix seeds are often on sale. They are quite suitable for organizing a collection, because. sown in early spring or at the end of winter, young plants bloom in the same summer, and then it becomes clear what color the plants appeared in the house. Usually unpretentious plants are propagated by seeds, but they are no less beautiful. Often, as a result of partial splitting of the characteristics of hybrid varieties, plants are obtained that are peculiar, of unusual color, even unique.
cuttings : after spring pruning, a large number of cut branches remain. They are cut into cuttings of 10 cm, the lower leaves are cut off, the sections are dried a little (about 1 hour) and planted in the ground or put on rooting in water in an opaque dish.

Important: little water is poured into the container, the lower end should be immersed in it by 1 - 2 cm, no more. And it is better if it does not touch the bottom of the container.

Bloom

Pelargonium blooms profusely and for a long time every year.

Dates and flowers

From early spring to late autumn, pelargonium is in bloom. During this time, several waves of flowering pass, between which new branches grow. For some owners, these plants bloom all year round, not focusing on the season, which means that the conditions are suitable. But it’s more correct to give pelargonium 3 months of rest so that it can gain strength.

Flowers are collected in an inflorescence umbrella. The colors are the most diverse, of all shades, up to almost black, and mixed, as well as speckled.

After flowering

With the beginning of the withering of each inflorescence, it is removed, because. very quickly unnecessary fruits are formed that deplete the plant. At the end of the flowering period, in the fall, you can feed the pelargonium once phosphorus-potassium fertilizer. To stimulate new flowering in winter, you need to prune before spring. In this case, the lighting should be very good. It should, however, be remembered that any continuously flowering plant is depleted early, becomes weak, and becomes ill at the slightest inconvenience.

There are not so many types of pelargonium grown at home. But within each species there are a sufficient number of varieties, which makes the assortment of pelargoniums truly immense.

Pelargonium zonal(garden) – the most common and most cultivar species. A characteristic feature is rounded leaves, with areas highlighted in color. This zonality is especially noticeable when growing a plant in good light.

This species gave rise to the classification of pelargoniums according to the shape of the flower:

simple: in inflorescence simple five-petal flowers, often quite large (chandeliers), numerous, creating an umbrella of impressive size, one-two-ton color, sometimes speckled, for example, Carmel;
semi-double : the flower is no longer flat, but also not terry, the color is varied, for example, Gerda;
terry : double row of petals of various colors, for example, miniature Brookside (Brookside), standard Lara;
stellate: the petals are not rounded, but sharp, narrow, simple and semi-double, the color is varied, for example, miniature Vectis (Vectis);
rosebuds (rosebud, rosebud) - flowers in the form of roses, collected in a characteristic umbrella - a very popular direction in breeding. Simple rosebuds of small size, usually red and its shades. More complex hybrids - large, various color combinations. Apple Blossom varieties are very decorative ( Appleblossom) , Denise, April Snow (April Snow), dwarf Odencieu ( Odensjo).
tulip-shaped : flowers in an umbrella inflorescence in the form of unopened tulips, in white-pink-red tones, for example, a series Pandora Red and Pink (Pandora Red and pink).

Pelargonium grandiflora (royal, large-flowered) - leaves are jagged, hard, flowers are not collected in an inflorescence, solitary, large, non-uniform, for example, Bravo, David. Blooms profusely, requires a dormant period in winter.

Pelargonium ivy - leaves without pubescence, similar to ivy leaves. Often ampelous or creeping. V hybrid varieties there are terry and rosebud flowers, for example, Viva.

Pelargonium fragrant - heavily cut leaves with a pronounced aroma. Flowers inconspicuous, small, simple, white, pink or lilac, rarely yellow. The smell of vanilla, pine needles, mint, rose, lemon, for example, citrose.

Zonal and ivy-leaved pelargoniums may have an additional decorative element - variegation on the leaves (different colors)

Diseases and pests

Pelargoniums, thanks to their essential oils repel most pests. Moreover, insects in general, including mosquitoes and flies, penetrate less into the room where these plants are.

With high humidity, fungal infection can occur. If the trunk is affected, the black leg at the base, then the specimen can no longer be saved. In this case, healthy parts are cut as early as possible for the purpose of further rooting. If the flower is affected by gray rot, then the diseased leaves are removed, the plant is treated with foundationazole.

Rarely, a viral disease of pelargonium occurs. Its symptom is the appearance of concentric spots on the leaves with a yellow center, which later necrotize. The virus infects the plant as a whole, cuttings cannot be taken for propagation, the flower must be destroyed.

Note to florist

For abundant flowering, pelargonium should grow in a cramped pot. A small volume stimulates the development of flower buds and prevents the occurrence of rot - the soil dries out quickly.
Pelargoniums purify indoor air not only from dust, but also from pathogenic microbes and viruses.

Frequently asked Questions

Pelargonium lives for a long time, but after 5 years it significantly loses its decorative effect. You can grow it in the future as a bonsai, using the thickening of the trunk as a decorative element, this is now a very popular trend. But for typical development, a cutting is rooted and a new plant is grown.

Is pelargonium poisonous?

The plant is not poisonous. Some species of related geranium are eaten.

Why doesn't it bloom? Some species, such as royal pelargonium, do not bloom unless there was a drop in temperature during the dormant period in winter.

In winter, pelargonium often does not bloom, even in warm conditions.

Why do the leaves turn yellow, dry, curl?

Most often this happens in winter. The plant does not have enough light, it stretches and sheds some leaves, especially at the bottom. After spring pruning, the buds will begin to wake up on the trunk, and the plant will be covered with greenery.

If the leaves turn yellow in spots, and not at the edges, and curl at the same time, then a viral infection is possible. This is incurable, it is necessary to destroy the plant in order to prevent spread to other flowers.

Why does pelargonium not grow?

Perhaps the plant is in a dormant period. Or is it a dwarf or miniature variety that remains very compact at any age.

Why does pelargonium fade quickly?

Individual inflorescences do not live very long - 2 - 3 weeks. But the flowering of the bush as a whole lasts more than six months, because. new flowers appear. The increased air temperature and too bright light, which happens in summer on the southern windowsill, shortens the life of flowers.

How to save pelargonium in winter?

It is best to provide her with cool conditions with minimal watering. If this is not possible, then you need to keep as close to the window as possible, preferably with additional lighting in the darkest months. Water sparingly, do not fertilize. At the end of winter, prune and transplant.

Pelargonium is not in vain loved by many generations of flower growers. It brings comfort and tranquility to the house, protects and decorates the home.

The modern variety of varieties allows you to assemble a collection for every taste.