Geranium (Pelargonium hybridum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Geranium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Geraniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Geranium
Pelargonium hybridum, commonly known as hybrid geranium, is a very popular ornamental plant due to its abundant flowering and ease of cultivation. It features showy flowers in a wide range of colors, from white to deep red, often with bicolored patterns, which contrast with its lobed and sometimes aromatic foliage. It is ideal for pots, planters, and hanging baskets, bringing color and cheer to balconies, terraces, and patios for much of the year.
Native range
Horticultural hybrid, has no natural native distribution.
Care tips
It requires full sun or partial shade exposure for optimal flowering, avoiding the most intense midday hours in summer. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging, which is its main enemy. Use a well-draining substrate, specific for flowering plants or universal with perlite. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot and the appearance of fungal diseases.
How to save a dying Geranium
- Warning signs
- Yellow or red leaves, soft and blackened stems, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Remove withered flowers and leaves. Check substrate: if wet, stop watering and improve drainage; if dry, water deeply. Place in partial shade.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main enemy, causing root rot. Also direct sun and frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Cut off rotten parts, repot in fresh, well-draining substrate.