Indoor geranium - photo, types, care, reproduction, benefits of flowers. Beautiful pelargonium: plant varieties with photos and descriptions. Basic care instructions Geranium-like flower with round leaves

It is a plant of herbaceous and semi-shrub type. Types of geraniums are a huge number of variations with different shapes, sizes. The second name of the plant is crail. She received this beautiful name thanks to the Greeks, who compared her fruits with a crane's beak. It originally grew in South Africa. Its decorative value was recognized only in the 17th century. Initially, the crail adorned the houses of the aristocracy. In the 18th century, he became famous in Russia. Literally a century later, geranium has become an adornment of many homes. Its demand is explained by aesthetics, unpretentiousness and intensive growth. There are over 250 varieties of the flower. Most of them are man-made. The species differ in the color of the inflorescences, the shape of the leaves.

Zonal geranium

The zonal crane is the most popular for growing at home. He has a lot of varieties. Each variety has its own differences. However, there are common features: durability, intensive flowering. They are distinguished by a straightened trunk, which is covered with wavy and lowered leaf plates. The leaves have a red-brown border. They emit a specific smell.

There are the following forms:

• Ordinary with five petals;
• Half double with 8 petals;
• Terry with petals exceeding eight pieces.

The zonal crail also differs in the shape of the flowers:

• Flowers of a red and pink shade, similar to roses;
• Similar to tulip buds;
• reminiscent of a star;
• Narrow swirling petals, reminiscent of a chrysanthemum;
• Small flowers grouped in bouquets;
• Star-shaped.

Coloring of flowers can be as follows:

• One tone;
• two tone;
• Many tones;
• Flowers with a border;
• With spots;
• With intermingled stripes and dots.

The height of a geranium bush can be up to 60 cm if it is a standard plant, up to 10 cm for miniature types. Irenes can grow up to 80 cm.

The zonal crane got its name not by chance. The leaves of the plant are distinguished by zones of different colors. Often they have a border of purple, white. In the middle you can see places with a golden, bronze tint.

royal geranium

If we consider all varieties, the royal crail will be the most beautiful of them. It is distinguished by large flowers of white, burgundy, pink, purple hues. The height is up to 15 cm. Geraniums can grow to a similar size. It appeared in the 19th century. Since then, it has been a sought-after indoor geranium decorating the room. Flowers distinguish her:

• Big size;
• Standard or terry form;
• Petals of corrugated or wavy type;
• On the petals you can see a dark spot or stripes;
• The first two petals are distinguished by velvety, increased size, dark tones.

The leaves of the flower are distinguished by:

• A jagged appearance and roughness that makes them look like maple leaves;
• One tone or many tones for coloring.

This is one of the most capricious representatives of the family. Its flowering does not last long at all - up to 4 months. Crail begins to bloom only after two years of cultivation.

This plant also got its name not by chance. It emits a whole bunch of aromas. It is enough to touch the leaf, and you will smell mint, strawberry, rose. Modern artificial species include geraniums with the aroma of apple, pineapple, pine needles. Description:

• The flowers of the plant are quite miniature;
• They are distinguished by a different shape, pink or purple hue;
• The leaf part has a pinnately incised shape and is subdivided into 5-7 zones;
• Visually, the leaves look terry.

Among the popular varieties of this type, it is worth noting Chocolate Mint, Lime, Citrus. This variety is very versatile. It is used both in medicine and in cooking. Has medicinal properties.

Thyroid or ampelous

Distinctive characteristics:

• Long shoots reaching a meter;
• The leaves are asterisk-shaped, dark green in color;
• Flowers are grouped in racemes;
• The flower part can be regular, half-double and terry. It reaches 4 cm, is distinguished by a variety of colors: white to the darkest.

Flowering of the plant begins in late spring and continues until early autumn. It is used for decorating loggias, balconies.

Angel

Distinctive features:

• Flowers resembling pansies in their appearance, white lilac, pink hue;
• Length up to 40 cm;
• Intensive branching;
• Easy care;
• Small dark green leaves.

Flowering continues all summer. It is very intense.

This is a relatively old look. Its age reaches 150 century. Bred by crossing royal and brilliant crails. They have high aesthetic qualities. Their differences:

• Foliage of a dark green shade of the dissected type;
• It has a characteristic aroma;
• The flower part is similar to miniature royal geraniums;
• Red petals with a light center.

It is a great success to buy Unicums in white and pink color, as they are very rare.

One of the most unusual varieties. Its characteristics:

• Branched and curved stems;
• Bushes of an unusual shape, immediately attracting attention;
• Stems, in some varieties, have spines.

This variety will require constant monitoring of the level of soil moisture, since if this parameter is violated, it begins to shed its leaves. This is a rather exotic plant that will suit the original interior design.

Lemon

This variety does not flower. But it is distinguished by leaves of saturated green color. The pubescent parts of the plant have a complex shape. The growth of such a crail can reach 1.5 meters. It is a fragrant species that has a lemon scent. Sometimes the plant begins to bloom, but its flowers are very small and not suitable for decorative purposes.

All species are ideal for growing at home. Some of them are standard. They require routine care. They are also easy to purchase. Other species are truly exotic.

In nature, there are more than two hundred species of geranium. Thanks to the selection, many varieties have been developed that can satisfy the taste of any even the most demanding grower. Geraniums today adorn houses, balconies, gazebos and terraces, gardens. Many varieties are decorative not only in color, but also in foliage.

Pelargonium zonal is the most numerous type of geranium. Indoor zonal geraniums have a straight, strong stem with lush foliage. The leaves of these plants are often bordered with a reddish stripe, and emit a fragrance. The name of the variety comes from the spots on the leaves of geraniums, the spots on the leaf plates are randomly arranged, irregular and unequal in shape. Leaf plates are covered with pile, velvety to the touch. Pelargonium zonal is represented by many tall and miniature plants, differing in the shape of the leaves, the shape of the flowers and their color. Geranium is zonal, all species and varieties are well grown and have abundant flowering. One of the most popular strains to grow is Happy Thought. The plant has variegated juicy green leaves, in the center of the leaf plate of an irregular shape there is a spot of bright yellow color. The petals of a regular flower are bright scarlet. Unusual blue geranium: the five-petalled flower of the Blue Blood variety is violet in color, the petals are literally pierced with red-burgundy veins.

Important! When fertilizing domestic plants with purchased fertilizers, pay attention to the composition and amount of nitrogen in it. An excess of this element stimulates the growth of foliage in geraniums at the expense of flowering.

Zonal Pelargonium clove

A popular variety with flower growers. The flowers of this pelargonium resemble carnations, the same carved, fluffy petals. Carnation pelargonium has a wide range of colors - from pastel tones to bright carmine, from pale pink to lilac, there are two-color petals. The following varieties are popular in home cultivation:

• Pat Hannam- the color of the petals - from pale pink to deep lilac;
• Graffiti Violet- lilac-purple flowers;
• Freshwater- pale pink petals.

Zonal Pelargonium stellata

This variety of room geranium is distinguished by an unusual shape of leaves and petals: the edge of the leaves seems to be written out with clear large teeth. The petals are large with torn edges, the lower petals in some varieties are distinguished by two sharp tips. The first to start breeding star pelargonium were the Australians. Some interesting varieties:

• Peppermint Star- petals are pale closer to the center, at the tips - crimson;
• Star Flair- against a bright crimson background, a white spot at the base of the petal clearly stands out, the shape of the petals is narrow;
• Swiss Star- two-color, on a pale lilac background, bright coral-colored stripes are visible along the petal.

Did you know? Geranium was revered in family magic: girls wore amulets with oil or flower petals, attracting the groom, married women believed that geranium protects their family and prolongs their youth and attractiveness for their husband.

Zonal Pelargonium cactus

Pelargonium cactus looks like a disheveled: it has large flowers with very narrow, sometimes needle-shaped petals. These plants became popular at the end of the 19th century. Popular varieties:

• Fascination- carmine-colored petals, long, nail-like, the edges of the petal are tucked down, which makes the shape more pointed;
• Noel- the petals are white, twisted, bright pink anthers rise above the stamen.

Zonal pelargonium non-double, or simple

Pelargonium non-double has simple flowers, five semicircular petals, flowers can be both large and small. The brightest varieties:

• Moulin Rouge- bright red geranium, large spherical inflorescences are formed by small flowers up to 15 pieces;
• Santa Maria- carmine petals, from eight to twelve flowers in a round inflorescence;
• Happy of New Life- two-tone, uneven spots of white and coral, scattered randomly over the petals, clear veins are visible on a white background.

Zonal pelargonium semi-double

Semi-double indoor geranium - a little more magnificent than a simple one, it has up to eight petals, a large palette of colors. Varieties in demand in indoor cultivation:

• Peppermint Twist- Pelargonium variegated raspberry-white with a red stripe;
• Georgia Peach- bright yellow flowers with rounded petals;
• Calais- a soft pink main background, in the middle is a petal of a coral shade.

Zonal pelargonium terry

Terry pelargoniums are distinguished by a large number of openwork petals and seem fluffy due to the lighter underside of the petal. The flowers are collected in dense rounded caps. The homeland of room pelargonium is South Africa, the plant is accustomed to warmth and lighting, if it does not have enough light, provide additional lighting, otherwise the flowers will be faded. Interesting varieties:

• Pebbles- crimson petals with a light almost white center, a miniature variety;
• Shelk Moiraс- a densely double flower of a coral pale tone, bright green foliage;
• Brookside Fantasy- petals are two-color: a strip of a darker color stands out against a lilac background.

Zonal pelargonium rosacea

Geranium with double flowers, similar to miniature roses. A large number of petals, tightly adjacent to each other, are collected in a stuffed bud. Numerous buds form a dense ball of inflorescence. Rosaceous pelargoniums are distinguished by a variety of tones. The most popular of the varieties:

• Apple Blossom- white petals with pale pink tips are collected around a pale green stamen;
• Magda- lush buds of carmine tone, with a lighter underside of the petal.

Zonal tulip-shaped pelargonium

Tulip geranium flowers look like an unopened tulip. Simple non-double petals are tightly collected in buds, which, in turn, form lush inflorescences-bouquets.

A variety of tulip-shaped pelargonium was bred by American breeders from Boston, Massachusetts. One of the parents of the new variety was the pelargonium variety Fiat.

Popular varieties:

• red pandora- bright carmine buds, veins of the same color are clearly visible on the petals, but half a ton darker;
• Patricia Andrea- bright dark pink buds, the variety has carved large leaves;
• Linea Andrea- attracts the attention of a pedicel covered with stiff bristles, holding a large lilac-colored bud.

Zonal Pelargonium Deacon

Deacons are miniature plants, compact in shape. This species is characterized by lush and abundant flowering. The color of the petals is pink, red and orange shades. The variety was first introduced in 1970 in the city of Chelsea at a flower fair. The author of the variety of this pelargonium, Stanley Stringer, indicated the parental varieties in the description: the zonal variety Orion and the ivy-leaved pelargonium Blue Peter. The most unusual variety - Deakon Birthday, the color of the petal is creamy pink with a coral center.

Pelargonium royal

The royal pelargonium is called the most attractive species, its height is from 16 to 40 cm and about 16 cm in diameter. Pelargonium has a wide variety of shades of flowers from white to dark purple. Flowers can be simple and double, the petals are wavy or corrugated, they are interspersed in the form of spots or stripes on the main background of the flower. The uppermost petals are velvety to the touch and larger than the rest. The royal variety is the most capricious of all, requiring increased attention when growing. Common varieties of royal pelargonium:

• Ann Hoystead- high up to 40 cm, flowers are large, petals are dark red with large dark spots;
• Askham Fringed Aztec- 30 cm high, double white geranium, with bright blueberry stripes along the petal;
• Black Prince- A 40-centimeter beauty, a thick plum shade, with a thin silvery stripe along the edge of the petal.

Interesting fact! White geranium is considered a symbol of procreation, so it is customary to give it to couples who do not have children. White geranium is also considered a talisman against ruin.

Pelargonium fragrant

This variety of geranium is called fragrant because of the pleasant subtle aroma, it is enough to press the leaf of the plant with your fingers, and the gentle smell will fill the space around. The aroma of the flower combines the smells inherent in other plants: mint, ginger, lemon and others. Hybrids have been bred that smell of exotic fruits and spices: pineapple, nutmeg, kiwi. The flowers of this species are small, pink and purple shades of petals predominate. The carved leaves of the plant are beautiful, seeming terry.

The following varieties are considered in demand:

• - up to 30 cm in height and 16 cm in diameter, the leaves are divided into three parts in the form of a blade, edged with teeth, petals are white with red dots on the upper petals, pine aroma with a slight hint of camphor;
• Ardwick Cinnamon- not large leaves of dark green color, velvety to the touch, white flowers, raspberry spots on the upper petals, smells of cinnamon.

Pelargonium ivy, or ampelous

Pelargonium ivy is named so for the similarity of the shape of the leaves with ivy foliage, the plant is herbaceous, the branches grow up to a meter long. Most often used in decorating loggias, open terraces in hanging pots. A variety of colors - from snow-white to dark blue. Ampelous pelargonium flowers are large, up to 5 cm in diameter, rounded in shape, can be double, semi-double and simple. The most beautiful varieties.

Geranium is an unpretentious plant that fits perfectly into the design of flower beds or window sills. All kinds of colors attract both landscape designers and ordinary housewives who dream of giving the room a special atmosphere. Consider the best types of pelargonium.

There are many varieties of geraniums. Professional gardeners have about 45 of its species.

Modern landscape designers use the flower in question as in closed buildings so in gardens or parks. In addition to its attractive appearance and unpretentiousness in care, geranium has another significant plus: resistance to cold and the scorching sun.

The plant is often used to decorate outdoor areas.

Plant species are distinguished by growing conditions, flowering time and height. It is worth considering in more detail the most popular varietal types.

Zonal variety

Such a flower is the most sought-after plant on the windowsills of housewives. He unpretentious, often blooms and is not afraid of temperature changes. The flowers are usually bright in color and grow in clusters. The leaves look rounded, slightly wavy at the edges and are colored dark red or brown.

It can bloom all year round, but this requires suitable conditions for it. It is worth considering one point: the smaller the pot in which the plant is planted, the more abundant it will bloom.

The royal-looking kalachik has a large number of colors and rather large flowers with a diameter of up to 15 centimeters. The plant is different dark spots or stripes on terry, wavy or corrugated petals:

Variety Zonal Variety Royal Variety Fragrant

The name of the variety indicates that the plant has a large number of aromas - rose, strawberry, lemon. The aroma becomes audible at the slightest touch to the leaves.

inflorescences here too small, painted in pink or purple.

The oil, which is obtained from fragrant, is widely used in folk medicine, cosmetology and culinary arts.

The main difference of this type are peculiar flowers that resemble pansies. The plant is not demanding to care, grows as a bush and reaches 50 centimeters in height.

In that case when flower pruning done wrong or out of time, then the shape of the ball will become falling.

Blooms in summer. Flowering is so abundant that the flowers cover the entire foliage. The colors of the flowers are very bright.

The subspecies under consideration was bred by breeders by crossing several types of geraniums. The leaves of the unique are dissected and painted in a dark color. From them comes aroma of cooking spices.

The inflorescences of this ornamental plant are red, and their center is white. Rarely, white or pink flowers can be found. It is considered unique to have spotted flowers.

This plant has a branched and curved stem, lignified at the bottom.

Sometimes you can come across a geranium, the stem of which has thorns. Such a kalachik is ideal for creating various designs.

Flower growers call this plant non-flowering, because flowering is rare. Her leaves are unusual, dissected, so it very often grows on the windowsills of private sectors and apartments.

The flower grows up to 1 meter in height. If you touch its leaf, then it starts to smell like lemon.

Varieties plant in question lots of, not to list them all. Each flower is unique, beautiful and requires individual care.

Variety Angel Variety Unique Variety Succulent Variety Lemon

Geranium Properties

The Geraniev family, which includes a large number of flowers from Europe, Asia and Africa, has been attracting people for many years. The beneficial properties of geranium were known even in ancient Greece.

What medicinal properties does

For the treatment of various diseases, it is customary for the people to use fragrant or pink geranium.

These plants are considered a real find, because have a positive effect on the body:

1. Fights bacteria and viruses. Due to the fact that geranium secretes essential oil, it helps to kill harmful microorganisms. For example, staphylococcus aureus.
2. It has an antiseptic effect.
3. Stops the bleeding.
4. Relieves pain.
5. Heals wounds.
6. Tones the skin.
7. Removes puffiness.
8. Helps manage diabetes.
9. Supports the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
10. Regulates the functioning of the liver and kidneys.
11. Strengthens the heart.

All the described properties make geranium a unique plant. This natural storehouse is increasingly found in the apartments of housewives.

What is pelargonium oil for?

Experts have proven that geranium oil:

• promotes brain activity
• stimulates normal physical activity
• restores the nervous system
• relieves a person of unreasonable fear
• lowers blood sugar
• prevents the spread of tumor cells

In addition to all that is mentioned above, geranium oil has some more useful features. They are:

The oil is widely used in folk medicine, cosmetology, and cooking. On its basis, a large number of healing ointments, regenerating creams, and tonics have been created.

What are the signs associated with geraniums

Walks among the people many signs, which are associated with the ball. It is worth considering each of them in more detail.

1. If a geranium with pink flowers bloomed in the house, then someone in the family will definitely fall in love.
2. Pink flower often saves broken families. It protects from love spells and quarrels that a rival can bring.
3. White can help spouses who are unable to conceive a child. The plant is recommended to be placed near the matrimonial bed.
4. red geranium protects the home from detractors.
5. Dry flowers symbolize material wealth and attract money to the home. Experts advise putting a geranium herbarium in your wallet.
6. In educational institutions, they put a ball in order to help build relationships between students and teachers. Besides, contributes to the high achievement of children.

1. In the workplace, the plant prevents the emergence of conflicts in the team. It is customary to put it in those places where management receives customers and business partners.

Similar signs have been tested for years. This suggests that the pet is useful not only in medicine, but also in everyday life.

Growing and transplanting a flower

If a pelargonium was planted in an apartment, then the hostess should take into account a few basic points for caring for the flower.

The plant needs proper lighting, timely watering, a certain temperature, pinching and pruning. It is forbidden to spray.

Growing order

Kalachik prefers to grow on a light and warm windowsill, to be at room temperature. With insufficient light the plant blooms poorly or dull and rare flowers appear on it.

Indoors, geraniums should not be exposed to direct sunlight, but outdoors, the flower tolerates sunny weather well.

Watering should be done when the soil in the pot dries out. Excessive moisture provokes rotting of the root system and weakening of the leaves.

In winter, you need a ball water very infrequently. It is better to achieve a lack of water than its excess.

The soil in the pot should be nutritious, it should contain peat and sand. Drainage should be placed at the bottom of the pot and periodically loosen the ground.

Pinching is carried out in order to grow a lush and beautiful plant. During the procedure, which is performed in late February or early March, you need to remove the growth point.

During the growth of the ball, it should constantly feed. It is better to do this with the help of liquid fertilizers, which contain nitrogen and a lot of phosphorus.

How to transplant and propagate

Geranium propagation is usually carried out in two ways. They are:

cuttings

Specialists cut cuttings with 5 leaves from the upper shoots and leave them for a couple of hours in the air. After a certain time the cut is sprinkled with to accelerate the growth of the root system and plant cuttings in the soil.

The plant takes root in 1-1.5 months, during which it is better to sprinkle the flower, rather than water it. When the kalachik is completely rooted, it is seated in pots.

seeds

This method is almost always used by breeders. Seeds are planted in small pots, and after the seedlings have come out, they are transplanted into larger containers. blooms such a flower after 12 months.

Geraniums are transplanted at any time of the year, because there is no specific deadline for this procedure. In order to transplant a kalachik, you need to prepare a pot, earth, drainage and a garden watering can. Sequencing:

• the plant is taken out of the old container along with the earth
• carefully examine its roots
• cut off that part of them where is decay or sickness
• put the flower in a new pot, cover the gaps with soil, water
• put in a dark place for a week
• in 7 days put in the right place

The most common diseases and pests

Diseases of pelargonium are often found when it is improperly maintained. In order to prevent the death of the plant, treatment should be carried out.

Yellow leaves

At the slightest change in the appearance of the bun, it is worth consulting with a specialist and describing the problem.

If the flower leaves turn yellow then it lacks moisture. The plant completely withers when the soil is waterlogged.

If pelargonium freezes over, then the edges of its leaves turn red. In winter, the pot should not touch the glass on the window.

If you hit a flower blackleg, then his stem darkens. This happens due to excessive moisture in the soil. In this case, the plant will have to be disposed of.

If a the stem becomes bare and the leaves fall off, then the kalachik does not have enough daylight.

If it appears on the leaves gray mold, this indicates the presence of a fungal disease. The flower must be treated with a fungicide.

According to statistics, pink, royal and zonal geraniums are more common among gardeners. This is due to the extraordinary beauty of the plant and its unpretentious care.

Geranium is a flower, which in our time has come to be considered "grandmother's", because it has been known for a very long time in indoor and garden floriculture, and, basically, it is the older generation that is engaged in breeding and collecting these plants.

Young people imagine geraniums in their standard form: rounded panicles of red flowers and double dark green leaves. In fact, progress does not stand still, and breeders have discovered a lot of varieties of pelargonium, which differ in flower shape, leaf color, plant size and other parameters.

If you want to buy a houseplant that will not require constant careful care and annual transplants, while remaining very decorative for a long time, then you should think about growing some kind of indoor geranium.

Types of geraniums with a photo

In order to deal with the choice of variety, it is necessary to consider the groups by which indoor pelargoniums are divided. These will be presented below with descriptions of the general characteristics of the species group.

Geranium zonal (bordered)

It can be immediately recognized by the characteristic color of the leaves: a dark green leaf is, as it were, bordered by a brown stripe, hence the second name of the species. It is the zonal geranium that is the “grandmother's” species, because this group is the most common and has more than 70,000 varieties.

Their separation is carried out not only by the color of the flowers, but also by their shape. Allocate simple flowers, semi-double and terry. It is clear that depending on the complexity of the flower, they have a different number of petals.

Also, the leaves differ in the severity of the dark stripe: in some varieties of geraniums it can be seen very clearly, in others it is almost invisible, the width of the border also depends on the variety.

Ivy geranium

This is an ampelous type of pelargonium, which produces many long falling shoots. In this regard, ivy-leaved geraniums are planted in hanging planters or pots standing at a height. It should be borne in mind that ivy varieties produce lashes up to 1 m long.

The group is also characterized by the absolute smoothness and glossiness of the leaves, which resemble ivy leaves. Hence the name of the group.

Geranium Angel

Also applies to ampelous, however, the lashes are shorter. The flower is interesting here: it very much resembles a viola (pansies) and looks very beautiful in a panicle.

fragrant geranium

Here, already from the name it becomes clear why this group is interesting for flower growers. The smells of the sea, it all depends on the particular variety. The pelargoniums collected in this group contain phytoncides in their leaves, which are responsible for the production of aroma. The smell is very strong, especially when touching the plant.

I would like to note right away that the appearance of fragrant geranium is not as interesting as in previous cases: the leaves are green with fluff, uneven and large, the flowers are simple standard colors.

The plant itself develops quickly and therefore the top can stretch. In order for the bush to be a bush, and not a couple of long shoots, it is necessary to pinch it periodically.

Geranium royal

Perhaps the most beautiful pelargoniums belong to this species. The flowers are also collected in paniculate rounded inflorescences, but each of them can reach 7 cm in diameter. Thus, flower caps are simply gigantic. And their color can be very different, and here we mean not only the main color, but also the presence of veins, borders, spots, etc.

Geranium Unicum

Indeed, it can be considered unique, as it has collected many interesting features: the flowers are very beautiful, with veins and patterns that the previous group can boast of, but the size, of course, is not so big.

The leaves are also decorative and at the same time have a certain aroma, depending on the particular variety. It is slightly weaker than that of fragrant pelargonium, but quite distinct.

They are small bushes that bloom profusely and do not require pruning at all. Varieties of such geraniums will be useful to those who have all the window sills already full of other plants.

Now you can consider some interesting types of geraniums, which differ precisely in the shape of the flower. These include:

• rosaceous zonal. The flowers resemble real small roses collected in a panicle;
• cactus zonal. It is difficult to say whether they are beautiful or not. This is an amateur option. The flowers themselves are large, and the petals are twisted into cones and resemble the spines of cacti;
• stellate zonal. They are named so in connection with the shape of the petal - it is pointed, narrowed towards the top;
• carnations. Carnations have serrated petals, and it is this property that this group of geraniums has adopted.

Planting a geranium

Geranium can be purchased in three forms: in seeds, a rooted cutting and a well-developed adult bush. Their cultivation must be considered separately.

Pelargonium seeds are quite large, therefore, as a rule, problems with their planting do not arise even for novice flower growers. When planting seeds, they are laid flat on the ground, slightly pressing down. The distance between the seeds is observed at least 2 cm.

After they have been planted in the ground, the earth is not watered with a watering can, but is well sprayed from a spray bottle, so the seeds will not be washed away and will remain in their places.

Usually, in order for geraniums to color in summer, planting of its seeds begins at the end of February. A plastic bag is put on the container in which the seeds are planted. Everything must be removed in a dark warm place and checked daily for shoots. Basically, pelargoniums germinate in 5-6 days.

After at least one sprout appears, the entire container is exposed to light, and the package is removed. When the seedlings grow up and have four leaves, they can be planted in separate pots (this operation is called picking).

Growing a rooted cutting and a well-developed bush

Everything here will be based on the selection of a pot and soil for transplanting an acquired seedling. Ready-made soil can be bought at a specialized store, or you can make it yourself if there is land brought from the garden in the fall at home. To do this, you just need to mix:

• upper light peat,
• earth,
• sand,
• vermiculite.

The soil thus composed will be loose. The selection of the pot is made depending on the state of the root system of the seedling.

Even for an adult bush, a small pot with a diameter of about 15 cm is suitable. Of course, it is recommended to purchase a pot made of baked clay, but they are usually more expensive than plastic ones.

Therefore, if you do not want extra costs, then the plastic one is also not so bad, it's just that the water in it does not dry out so quickly, and there is a risk of “flooding” the plant.

Be sure, to prevent root rot and black leg, it is necessary to provide high-quality drainage in the pot, poured with a layer of 2-3 cm. What can we say, the pot itself must have at least one drain hole at the bottom.

Pelargonium Care

As it was said at the very beginning of the article, geraniums are very undemanding in care, for which flower growers love them. Care is the fulfillment of the following conditions:

Watering

It all depends on the rate of drying of the top layer of the earth. Geranium tolerates drought much better than excessive moisture, so it is important not to “flood” it, otherwise the death of the bush cannot be avoided.

Usually watering is carried out about three times a week. By the way, it must be done carefully, trying not to get on the leaves of the plant itself. Spraying geraniums is also undesirable.

Landing place

Geranium is very photophilous, so its flowering directly depends on the amount of sunlight that it receives. Southern well-lit windows are suitable for growing pelargonium.

Room temperature

This factor is not particularly important in the summer. In winter, the temperature should not fall below 10 0 C. The main thing is to protect the plant from drafts.

loosening

This operation is recommended to be carried out periodically so that air enters the roots, and the earth does not turn into one monolithic piece. In order to loosen the ground, it is not at all necessary to have a special rake: you can use an old fork or stick.

top dressing

Geraniums are fed during flowering and before it begins with phosphorus-containing fertilizers. In no case should organic fertilizers be applied, geraniums simply cannot tolerate them.

Bush formation

It implies rejuvenating pruning of an adult plant and the formation of young growth. In the first case, up to five buds are left on each shoot, from which new branches will appear in the future.

In the second case, the technique of pinching the tops with your fingers is used for better tillering. All these operations are recommended to be carried out at the end of winter - beginning of spring.

Transfer

It is not carried out annually, but every 2-3 years. It is best to transplant with a clod of earth, without exposing the roots.

Usually this operation is carried out when room pelargonium noticeably slows down development. But this does not mean that the new pot has to be huge. You can increase its diameter by the thickness of the index finger.

Reproduction of room geranium

To preserve the characteristic features of the geranium variety, they are usually propagated by cuttings or by dividing an adult bush.

seeds

If you personally collect the seeds, then there is no guarantee of the preservation of the variety. If you want to try planting the collected seeds, then you need to carry out scarification, i.e. removal of the outer shell. Seeds are ground between two pieces of sandpaper.

cuttings

Cut cuttings about 6 cm long are placed in water until young white roots germinate and then planted in the ground or germinated in coarse wet sand. Both methods are effective and widely used.

Bloom

The flowering of geraniums occurs after planting with seeds in about five months, so if they are planted at the end of February, then the pelargonium will bloom in the same year.

The stalk will bloom earlier - in three months. However, these dates apply mainly to zonal species, Angels and Royal Pelargoniums will in any case bloom only in the second year.

Diseases and pests of pelargonium

The most common diseases of geraniums in room conditions include fungal and viral diseases. Fungal include black leg, leaf rust, various kinds of rot. Most often, these diseases are treated with solutions of fungicides.

There are few geranium pests, but they are already very annoying. These include aphids, whiteflies, caterpillars and mites. They themselves or traces of their vital activity can be found by a careful examination of the leaves of the plant on both sides.

You can get rid of pests by spraying geraniums with special means. If it was not possible to establish who specifically settled on the flower, then it is better to use the drug from the pest complex.

Why do leaves turn yellow?

Inexperienced flower growers can often encounter the following problems when growing geraniums: the leaves turn yellow, fall off, and the bush itself does not want to bloom at all.

This is most likely the result of improper care.

• If the leaf turns yellow along the edge, it means that the bush does not receive enough water.
• If the leaves are sluggish and fallen, then the bush is flooded.
• If the leaves fall from the bottom of the plant, then the geranium is not getting enough sunlight. By the way, for the same reason, it may not bloom.
• Also, geranium will not want to release flower stalks if it is overfed with nitrogen, which is used to gain green mass by the plant.

In order not to end on such an unpleasant moment as problems in growing pelargonium, we can talk about its beneficial properties.

Useful properties of geranium

• Firstly, this plant perfectly cleans the indoor air from harmful microbes. The smell of geranium relieves stress, relieves depression.
• Secondly, it repels pests from other flowers and plants. In summer, it is recommended to take geraniums into the garden, under currant bushes - so that there are no aphids!
• And thirdly, geranium is widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases. She is compared to a plantain! Fresh leaves perfectly heal wounds and heal ulcers. The decoction helps with diseases of the intestines and stomach.
• An essential oil with a delicate aroma is also obtained from geraniums, which is used for medicinal purposes. It treats a runny nose, earaches, relieves muscle fatigue, back pain.

Video about growing pelargonium - geraniums

Here is such a useful and beautiful plant - pelargonium or indoor geranium. Grow on windowsills, and now you know how to care.

Pelargonium (Geranium) is a semi-shrub or herbaceous flower that belongs to the geranium group. More than 400 of its varieties are found in all corners of the world. It got its name from the Greeks because of the shape of the fruit, which looks like a crane's beak, and in Germany this flower is called the "stork's nose".

Pelargonium was brought to Europe from Africa in the 17th century. The peculiar smell and decorativeness of the plant won her great popularity in aristocratic circles, and after that geraniums began to appear in the gardens of other classes. Pelargonium came to our country in the 18th century, and since that time has become the most beloved flower of almost all gardeners. This is due to its beautiful flowers, active growth and unpretentious care.

Pelargonium varieties: photo and description

In the natural environment, there are about 250 species of geraniums. The development of breeders made it possible to create numerous hybrids and varieties that differ in shape, color of leaves and inflorescences. Indoor pelargonium is divided into several groups:

• Ivy;
• Zonal;
• Unique;
• Fragrant;
• Royal;
• Angel;
• Succulent.

Zonal pelargonium

This flower variety is the most popular, as well as a numerous species with a large number of varieties. All varieties of this geranium are quite resistant and are characterized by lush flowering.. Most often, all indoor geraniums of this variety have a straight trunk with rich refrain-shaped foliage and a brown or red edging. The leaves of this variety are pubescent, and at the same time they create a peculiar smell.

According to the shape of the flowers, zonal pelargoniums are:

• Terry - more than 8 petals on flowers;
• Semi-double - on flowers up to 8 petals;
• Ordinary - have 5 petals.

The shape of the flowers of this variety is also different:

• Tulip, similar to the flowers of closed tulips;
• Rosebuds, with pink or red buds, resembling incompletely opened roses in shape;
• Cactus with twisted and narrow petals, reminiscent of a red chrysanthemum;
• Star-shaped, leaves and flowers follow the shape of a star;
• Formosa, with flowers in the form of an asterisk and foliage dissected into 5 parts;
• Deacons, small flowers that gather in bouquets of purple, red and pink.

The color of the petals also differs in its diversity. They can be multi-color, two-color or one-color, with or without a border. Separately, flowers are distinguished, which are called "bird eggs", they have dark ovoid blotches with dotted dots and stripes. Flowering of this variety of pelargonium occurs throughout the summer, and if the plant is not placed in a dormant state in winter, then it can bloom all year round.

Zonal pelargoniums are also divided by height:

• Microminiature - up to 14 cm;
• Dwarf - 14–25 cm;
• Normal - 25–70 cm;
• Airins - up to 70 cm.

The name of this type of geranium is given by the color of the leaves, which have clearly marked areas, the central area and edging have a different shade. The border can be red, white, blue and burgundy. The middle of the leaf is very different, even black, silver or golden. There are varieties with tricolor foliage.

Royal Pelargonium

It is considered the most attractive plant of this variety. It has large flowers of various colors: pink, white, purple, burgundy and red. The diameter of the flowers can reach 16 cm and the same size in height.

Hybrids of this plant began to appear as early as the 19th century, and the royal geranium has become an indoor favorite of gardeners around the world. Her large double or simple flowers with fluted or wavy petals, on which there are stripes or a dark spot all the time, which is a characteristic feature of this variety. The two petals on top are larger and velvety than the others.

The plant can reach a height of up to 15 cm. If you look at the photo of the royal geranium, you can see that the rough and jagged leaves are very similar to maple leaves, and at the same time they are both plain and bright.

This variety of pelargonium is the most whimsical flower of all geraniums, while the flowering time is much shorter than that of others (no more than 4 months), and occurs only after two years of growth.

Fragrant Pelargonium

This variety of geranium has the most pleasant aromas, for which it got its name, as well as the recognition of gardeners. If you gently touch a leaf of a plant, you can immediately feel various strong aromas, among them you can feel lemon, rose, strawberry, ginger, mint.

To date, hybrids have been bred that smell of apple, nutmeg, lilac, almond, pine, and even pineapple and kiwi.

The flowers of this room pelargonium are small and, as a rule, are purple or pink, as well as different shapes. Brightly incised foliage has 5-7 parts. In the photo you can see that the foliage of fragrant geranium looks terry.

Using fragrant pelargonium

From this plant variety, geranium oil is extracted, which has a large number of unique properties, and is of great use in medicine, perfumery, cosmetology, and also in cooking. This oil is added to beverage syrups, jellies and hard candies. A couple of drops of this oil remove the sometimes unpleasant smell of milk.

The leaves of this variety are added to teas, pies and fruit dishes.. They are used to make flavored sugars. Why are layers of sugar and leaves placed in a glass container. The jar is exposed to the sun for 14 days. After the leaves are removed, and directly sugar is used to make various dishes.

Ivy Pelargonium

This variety of geranium is an ampelous species of herbaceous plants. Fragile and flowing shoots of this plant can be up to 1 m long. Shiny leaves of a rich green shade in the form of an asterisk resemble ivy, which gave the name to this flower.

Flowers in bud can be double, semi-double and single up to 5 cm in size. Their color can vary from pure white to black and blue. Flowering takes place from early summer to late autumn.

Look great as a decor for loggias and balconies, especially when planting several species with different bud colors in one hanging pot.

Pelargonium angel

This type of geranium is characterized by violet-colored inflorescences, which are similar to the Pansy flower. Plant up to 35 cm tall (with constant pruning) has a rather elegant shape, lush branching and unpretentious care. Flowering continues throughout the summer, flowers can be pink, white, purple, lilac with dark stripes or spots on the two upper petals.

Pelargonium unique

These flowers are over a century old. The unique ones were obtained by crossing brilliant and royal varieties. The dark green leaves of the plants are strongly dissected and have a slight spicy smell. The flowers are very similar to royal geraniums., but slightly smaller. As a rule, they have a white center and red leaf color. Varieties of pink and white are few in number. Some species are distinguished by dark veins and spots.

Succulent Pelargonium

This is a rather unusual variety of geranium. The stems of the plant, lignified from below, are strongly arched and branched. With increased dryness of the air and weak watering, the bush sheds leaves. The plant has rather bizarre shapes that resemble various fantastic creatures. Branches sometimes have thorns. This flower is usually chosen for bonsai decoration., and as exotic plants for decorating the room. Of the 10 varieties of this plant, as a rule, you can find geranium cortus-leaved, humpbacked, downy-leaved, fleshy, angular and thick-stemmed.

lemon pelargonium

This variety of geranium has earned its popularity due to its strongly dissected, pubescent, bright green leaves of complex shape. The bush is quite tall, can grow up to 1.5 meters. When touched, the leaves begin to emit a strong lemon scent.

Healing properties of geranium

For the unique healing properties of many types of geraniums, the Bulgarians call it "health resort". And in fact, it helps a lot with many diseases:

• Toothache disappears if you hold a geranium for a short time in your mouth;
• Inflammation and pain in otitis media can be removed with crushed leaves of fragrant pelargonium, if placed in the ear canal;
• Geranium infusion is great for stress and neurosis, and also treats gout and colds;
• A geranium leaf attached to the wrist stabilizes pressure;
• For itching, wounds, swelling and eczema, leaf baths are used;
• The aroma of this flower eliminates irritability, insomnia and headache;
• Also, the plant helps pets in the treatment of ear mites;
• Decoctions of the roots and leaves are used for kidney disease, salt deposition and diabetes.

Properties of pelargonium oil

Speaking of pelargonium, one cannot fail to mention the essential oil that is made from this plant. Today, neither the cosmetic, nor the perfumery, nor the confectionery, nor the soap industry can do without its use. Also, without this oil, coloring and dressing of certain types of leather is impossible.

In folk medicine, a couple of drops of oil diluted in a glass of water are used to treat ulcers, urinary tract, diarrhea, diabetes, and bleeding.

Also, this oil is an anthelmintic substance. Oil baths are used for eczema, burns, high blood pressure and headaches.

But do not forget that, like all folk methods of treatment, the use of geranium has some contraindications However, it cannot replace drug therapy. Therefore, before starting treatment with it, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Geranium perfectly cleans the air, removes unpleasant odors (for example, burning). At the same time, she fights well with moths, flies and mosquitoes.

Signs associated with geraniums

This flower is considered a talisman that protects the house from many troubles and does not allow people with bad intentions to enter it. The plant has a positive energy, and therefore many superstitions and signs associated with it have a positive orientation.

If this flower is in the house, then household members almost never suffer from stress and do not quarrel. According to ancient beliefs, geranium oil protects from the evil eye, dark forces and other evil spirits. And the girls carried small bags of geraniums with them to attract suitors. And for older ladies, they helped to maintain youth and attractiveness.

Blooming white geranium was a sign of an addition to the family, therefore it is customary to give it to couples who cannot have children for a long time. At the same time, white geranium still protects from ruin and disasters.

Blooming geranium in the house

But red geranium is useful for those couples who are in conflict with each other all the time. This flower brings peace to the house and removes all negative emotions.

Pink geranium also plays a significant role. She can resurrect the extinguished feelings of the spouses for a long time together. She brings emotions, passion and ardor back into relationships. It is also used against witchcraft. Since she is a flower of delight, she is advised to keep in houses where creative personalities live.

Also there is a belief that geranium, especially red, helps its owners to properly manage money that accompanies material well-being. And if you install it near the azalea pot, then the influx of money cannot be avoided.

Astrologers say that indoor geranium can quickly extinguish rage and anger, neutralize negative energy in rooms, develop a sense of humor and relax nerves.

In places where there is a geranium, snakes are never found.

If this plant actually has at least some of the prescribed properties, then the question of whether it is possible to plant geraniums at home disappears by itself, by installing it on your windowsill, it will probably be possible to decorate your home, as well as get rid of many problems in the family and home .