Scented Geraniums
Planting and Container Size:
All scented species respond to standard Geranium soils and fertilization. The aggressive varieties should be pinched frequently to keep a fuller plant habit. They branch best from soft, green wood. All scented Geraniums are perfect for combination pots, but may also be grown in 6" or larger pots.
Growth Regulators:
B-Nine®/Cycocel® at 1500 ppm is effective in reducing internode stretch. Plants also respond to Bonzi® at 2.5 to 5ppm.
Flowering:
Flowering is considered incidental to this class. However, P. fragrans is very floriferous with no special treatment. Growing established plants at temperatures of 56ºF nights and 68ºF days can enhance blooming.
Insects:
Whitefly are the primary insect pest. Using IGR's such as Sanmite® or Distance®, or low-toxicity products such as M-Pede® are preferable due to the potential herbal use of the leaves. Botrytis should be controlled with good greenhouse management practices and occasional fungicide use.
Brocade Geraniums:
Refer to the article "Successfully Growing Ivy Geraniums".
Pillar Geraniums:
Planting and Timing:
To grow a specimen Pillar plant we recommend growing five cuttings to a 12"-14" decorative pot. A 36" tall plant can be grown in 12-16 weeks from rooted cuttings. A good rule of thumb is to expect about 8" of growth per month in the winter and 12" per month in the spring and summer. One pinch, two to three weeks after transplanting in the final pot is recommended. Once shoots become long enough to require support, loosely twist tie to a cage or trellis. One tie per foot of height is sufficient. Some type of support such as a rose pillar or tomato cage is recommended for an upright specimen. A 5 ppm spray of GA at 4 weeks and 8 weeks will increase overall height.
pH and Fertility:
A pH of 5.8 to 6.2 is ideal. Pillars are aggressive growers and respond well to a balanced fertilizer program. Use 15 - 15 - 15 or 20 - 10 - 20 at 250 ppm constant feed once plants become established, for they are sensitive to high salts early in the crop.
Insects and Diseases:
The Pillars are generally insect and disease-free. Monitor for thrip, whitefly, and aphids and spray accordingly with any product labeled for Geraniums. Use good sanitation practices to avoid Botrytis. NOTE: Smoke fumigants may cause petal drop.