zonal geranium
Pelargonium hortorum
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
10 - 11
Flowers:
Red, purple, pink, orange, white Flowers
Sun:
full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,purple,gray,gray
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
Indoors:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Zonal geraniums require thorough watering, but should never be over-saturated. Water your zonal geranium when the top inch of soil feels dry, but before the leaves start to droop. It is best to water at the base of the plant with a gentle flow of water in order to decrease the chances of over-watering, which can cause root rot. Water about once every 5-7 days depending on your plant’s environment, such as humidity and temperatures in your home, and also be sure to water the plant more often if placed outdoors during the hot summer months.
sunlight
Zonal geraniums thrive best in full sun, meaning they should receive at least 6 hours per day of direct sunlight. The best time to provide the plants with sunlight is during the daytime hours, when the sun is at its peak intensity. The sunlight should be evenly distributed throughout the day, so it's important to rotate the geraniums every few days so they get even exposure on both sides.
pruning
Zonal geraniums (Pelargonium hortorum) should be pruned regularly throughout the growing season to maintain their best appearance. Light general trimming should be done in early spring to remove dead or weak growth. Heavy pruning should then be done in late spring to early summer. This pruning should focus on cutting away old or dead foliage as well as leggy or overly-long stems. To shape and encourage bushiness, cut back the stems to the desired height. Finally, repeat the light trimming in late summer to early fall to maintain shape.
