Devotes annually to a single sun-loving garden plant, which I plant again and again due to its affinity for warmth.
In the heart of the author's backyard, a collection of vibrant and colourful plants thrive - not your typical garden staples, but the often-overlooked pelargoniums, sometimes mistakenly referred to as geraniums.
Pelargoniums, tender plants native to the Southern Hemisphere, are notably different from their Northern Hemisphere counterparts, the geraniums. While geraniums are generally perennial plants, surviving and growing back year after year, pelargoniums are often treated as annuals due to their lifecycle. They last only for one growing season outdoors, although they can be overwintered indoors or in milder climates.
These tender plants are less cold-hardy and more sensitive to frost, making them less suitable for perennial borders. In contrast, geraniums are hardy, herbaceous plants that can generally survive colder conditions.
Despite their annual nature, pelargoniums offer a multitude of benefits. They thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant, but appreciate regular watering to prevent drying out. Trailing pelargoniums perform exceptionally well in hanging baskets and will bloom from spring through to fall. They come in a wide variety of colours, making them a versatile addition to any garden.
Caring for pelargoniums is relatively straightforward. The author prefers to use a Felco pruning shear (F 6) for deadheading, a process that encourages continued blooming by removing spent flowers. Regular deadheading is beneficial for pelargoniums as it prolongs their flowering season, which can last from spring to fall.
The author plants pelargoniums in various containers, including window boxes and planters, and prefers to plant them on their own without other petals for a more striking display. Moving containers with pelargoniums can cause stress, leading to scorched or brown leaves, wilting, and curling. To avoid this, it's best to choose a pot that isn't too large and ensure the drainage holes are large enough for water to pass through.
Pelargoniums are an economic buy for those on a budget, offering a bounty of colour without breaking the bank. The author's favourite garden flower is a pelargonium, a testament to their charm and appeal.
In today's modern garden, pelargoniums are a refreshing change from the usual suspects. The author has recently created a colour-clashing display of red and pink pelargoniums, adding a vibrant pop of colour to the garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice, pelargoniums are a must-have for any garden, offering a long flowering season, easy care, and a wide variety of colours to choose from.
Home-and-garden enthusiasts may find pelargoniums, with their vibrant colors, a refreshing addition to their lifestyles. Unlike sturdy geraniums, pelargoniums are often treated as annuals due to their sensitivity to frost and cooler temperatures, making them flourish best in containers.
