Geranium is an amazing plant that can delight you with its flowering even in the coldest months of the year.
Proper care and creation of favorable conditions allow you to achieve lush flowering of pelargonium in winter, filling the house with bright colors.
Optimal lighting
The plant requires at least 12 hours of light daily. Southern windows are the ideal location, emphasizes the expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", agronomist and landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh.
When there is insufficient natural light, phytolamps are used, which are turned on in the morning and evening, extending daylight hours.
Temperature conditions
The comfortable air temperature for geranium in winter is 16-18 degrees. Higher values lead to stretching of shoots and reduced flowering.
The plant requires cool conditions at night, the temperature can drop to 12-14 degrees. Sudden temperature changes are not allowed.
Proper watering
Winter watering of geraniums is carried out moderately, as the top layer of soil dries out.
Over-wetting of the substrate can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Water for irrigation should be settled and at room temperature. Spraying of leaves is not recommended.
Top dressing and fertilizers
Regular fertilizing is necessary to maintain flowering. Fertilizers with increased phosphorus and potassium content are applied once every two weeks.
Nitrogen fertilization is limited, since it stimulates the growth of green mass to the detriment of flowering. Special compositions for flowering plants are used.
Crown formation
Pinching the tops of the shoots stimulates the formation of new buds. Faded flower stalks are removed immediately after flowering.
Thickened and weak shoots are cut to improve illumination and air circulation. Formative pruning is carried out carefully so as not to injure the plant.
Air humidity
Geranium prefers moderate air humidity. Placing the plant near heating devices is not advisable.
To maintain optimum humidity levels, use trays with wet pebbles. Direct spraying of leaves can cause spots and diseases.
Disease prevention
The plant is inspected regularly to detect signs of disease or pests. Yellowed and damaged leaves are removed promptly.
Preventive treatment with biological preparations is carried out. The plant is kept clean, dust is removed from the leaves with a damp cloth.
Transplantation and renewal
Geranium transplantation in winter is carried out only in case of extreme necessity. The soil mixture is prepared nutritious, with good air and moisture permeability.
The root system is inspected for damage. The pot is selected according to the size of the root system.
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
