Geranium seeds are the best 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 a room a special atmosphere. Consider the best types of pelargonium.

There are a lot of geranium varieties. Professional gardeners have about 45 species.

Varieties: what the species look like

Modern landscape designers use the flower in question as in closed buildings, so in gardens or parks... In addition to its attractive appearance and unpretentious care, geranium has another significant advantage: resistance to cold and 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 demanded 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 inflorescences. The leaves appear rounded, slightly wavy at the edges, and are dark red or brown in color.

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 abundantly it will bloom.

Royal

The kalachik of the royal species has a large number of colors and rather large flowers with a diameter of up to 15 centimeters. The plant is different dark specks or streaks on double, wavy or corrugated petals:

Height	can reach up to 50 centimeters
Bloom	it blooms at the age of two for 4 months
Peculiarities	the most capricious in care

You can read more about the plant in the article on caring for royal geraniums at home.

Fragrant

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

Inflorescences here too smallcolored pink or purple.

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

Angel

The main difference between this type is considered to be a kind of flowers that resemble pansies. The plant is not demanding to care for, it grows as a bush and reaches 50 centimeters in height.

In the event that the flower is not trimmed correctly or out of time, then the shape of the ball will become falling.

Blooms in summer. The bloom is so abundant that the flowers cover all the foliage. The flowers are very bright.

Unique

The subspecies in question was bred by breeders by crossing several types of geraniums. The leaves of the unique are dissected and dark colored. From them comes aroma of culinary spices.

The inflorescences of this ornamental plant are red, and their center is white. Less commonly, you can find white or pink flowers. A ball with spotted flowers is considered unique.

Succulent

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

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

Lemon

Florists call this plant non-flowering, for flowering is quite rare... Its 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 begins to smell like lemon.

Varieties the plant in question lots of, all of them cannot be enumerated. Each flower is unique, beautiful and requires individual care.

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 geraniums 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 an essential oil, it helps to kill harmful microorganisms. For example, staphylococcus aureus.
2. Has an antiseptic effect.
3. Stops bleeding.
4. Relieves pain.
5. Heals wounds.
6. Tones up the skin.
7. Relieves puffiness.
8. Helps cope with diabetes.
9. Supports the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
10. Regulates the functioning of the liver and kidneys.
11. Strengthens the heart.

All these 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 indicated above, geranium oil has a few more useful properties... They are as follows:

1. Removal of spasms from blood vessels.
2. Elimination of tachycardia.
3. Improving the work of the heart.
4. Pain relief and removal of puffiness.
5. Anti-inflammatory effect.
6. Destruction of herpes and fungus.
7. Slowing down the aging of the body.
8. Decrease in blood clotting.
9. Strengthening immunity.
10. The oil is used in the fight against various insects and parasites.
11. Eliminates skin flaking, acne and blackheads.
12. Treatment of eczema, burns.

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

We strongly recommend that you consult your doctor before proceeding with self-medication.

What are the signs associated with geraniums

Walks among the people will take a lotthat are associated with the ball. It is worth considering in more detail each of them.

1. If a geranium with pink flowers bloomed in the house, then someone in the family will surely fall in love.
2. The flower is pink often saves crumbling families... It protects against love spells and quarrels that a rival can bring.
3. White can help spouses who cannot conceive a child. The plant is recommended to be placed near the matrimonial bed.
4. Red geranium protects the home from ill-wishers.
5. Dried flowers symbolize material wealth and attract money to the home. Experts advise putting a geranium herbarium in your wallet.
6. In educational institutions, a kalachik is placed so that it helps to establish relations between students and teachers. Besides, contributes to the high performance of children.

Improving academic performance is a great excuse to put your pet in school if no one has allergies.

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

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

Growing and transplanting a flower

If they planted pelargonium in the apartment, then the hostess must take into account several 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 it.

Growing order

Kalachik prefers to grow on a light and warm windowsill, to be at room temperature. With insufficient light the plant does not bloom well or dull and sparse flowers appear on it.

Indoors, geraniums should not stand in direct sunlight, but outdoors, the flower tolerates sunny weather.

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

In winter, you need a kalachik water very rarely... It is better to achieve a lack of water than an excess of it.

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 the soil should be periodically loosened.

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 feed constantly... 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 as follows:

Cuttings

Experts cut cuttings with 5 leaves from the upper shoots and leave them in the air for a couple of hours. After a certain time sprinkle the cut with the agent to accelerate the growth of the root system and cuttings are planted in the soil.

Cuttings are considered a reliable breeding method.

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

Seeds

This method is almost always used by breeders. The 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 time frame for this procedure. In order to transplant a ball, you need to prepare a pot, soil, drainage and a garden watering can. Sequencing:

• the plant is taken out of the old container along with the ground
• carefully examine its roots
• cut off that part of them where there is decay or illness
• the flower is placed in a new pot, the gaps are covered with soil, watered
• put in a dark place for a week
• in 7 days put in the right place

The most common diseases and pests

Pelargonium diseases are often found when it is not maintained correctly. In order to prevent the death of the plant, treatment should be carried out.

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

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

If pelargonium freezes, 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 soil moisture. In this case, you will have to get rid of the plant.

If the stem is exposed and the leaves fall off, then the kalachik lacks daylight.

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

Gray mold

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.

Read: 4 695

Varieties of geranium (pelargonium) - varieties and types

Indoor Geranium or pelargoniumhouseplant known to many. Today it is withdrawn many different types and varieties, there are already more than 400 of them all over the world. Deduce new varieties of indoor geranium started a very long time ago, probably, as soon as they got to England, botanists immediately began to breed new species and subspecies, already in the 17th century there were quite a few breeding varieties of geraniums. The most popular varieties can be found on the shelves of flower shops and the windowsills of the houses of your relatives and friends.

Pelargonium, with its unpretentiousness, has won the hearts of many flower lovers. The main advantage of room geraniums is the fact that the same plant is grown equally well both indoors and outdoors, and at the same time the breeding conditions themselves do not differ, which makes its breeding and cultivation rather troublesome. If you still do not know the name of a variety of room geranium on your windowsill or table, read the description of the varieties and you will find out what the name of your beauty is.

Indoor Geranium (Pelargonium) Zonal

Zonal geranium (pelargonium)

Zoned geranium (pelargonium) - the most popular variety, every lover of this plant has such a geranium. This type of geranium has a large number of varieties, but each variety of this species is distinguished by a special splendor of the plant and very abundant flowering.

The trunk of all varieties is even, and the leaves are always corrugated, have different edging at the edges, the foliage is always lowered to the bottom and has a peculiar aroma. Her flowers are very diverse, they are ordinary, double, semi-double, each flower has from 5 to 8 petals. The flowers of the zonal geranium are very diverse in shape, some simply fascinate with their beauty, and they are like this:

Geranium (pelargonium) Tulip

Tulip - in shape, these flowers are similar to nothing more than a half-opened tulip bud, in the inflorescence it resembles a bouquet of tulips that are about to open. The colors are absolutely varied.

Rosebuds

Rosebuds - already the name itself, immediately reminds of roses, it is on them that they look like, such a flower looks like a not yet fully opened rosebud. They are only pink or red in color.

Cactus or clove geranium

Cactus - resemble a cactus or chrysanthemum flower, they always have narrow petals, and the color is only red.

Star-shaped - the name speaks for itself, they resemble small stars in their shape.

Geranium (pelargonium) star-shaped

Format (star) - in shape, the flowers themselves, as if star-shaped, look like asterisks, but the foliage also has a difference here, it is cut into 5 parts.

Deacons - have the smallest flowers, inflorescences can be pink, red, purple, while these colors have different shades.

Geranium (Pelargonium) Deacons or Bird Eggs

The colors of the petals of flowers of this species are very diverse, in their color, there are even mixed colors, with stripes or blotches. There is even a color that was given the name "Bird eggs" they were named so due to the fact that the blotches are in the form of the color of a bird's egg. Zonal geranium blooms all year round and is quite abundant.

Zonal geraniums differ among themselves not only in the shape and color of flowers, but also in their size they are microminiature, such a variety reaches a maximum of 14 cm in height, they are dwarf a little more from 14 to 25 cm in height, ordinary from 25 to 70 cm and the most large it Irene they always grow up to 70 cm.

This species also differs in its leaves, they are always bordered, the border can be brownish, reddish, white, bluish or burgundy. The center of the leaf is also always pronounced, it can be varied, the most unusual are black and silver colors of the center of the leaf. Even tricolor leaves can sometimes be found.

Royal geranium (pelargonium)

Royal geranium (pelargonium)

Royal geranium named the most beautiful representative among geraniums, and its flowers are the largest among all. The flowers of this beauty can be pink, white, purple, red and burgundy, and the size of the inflorescence is large 16 cm in diameter, making this bouquet simply luxurious.

Flowers are regular and double, the edges are always wavy. Flowers almost always have streaks or dark spots. The highlight of this variety are the flower petals, to be more precise, the 2 petals on the flower - they are always larger than the others and are more double and velvety.

The leaves of this variety are very similar to those of clover. They can be pale and rich in color.

The size of the royal geranium is quite small, it grows up to a maximum of 15 cm in height.

This variety, unlike the others, is very whimsical like a real queen, she is fastidious in everything. And it blooms less than all the others, the flowering period does not exceed 4 months and it blooms no earlier than 2 years later and only if the conditions are completely suitable for it.

This variety does not like to live on the windowsill in the summer, it is better to identify it in the fresh air in the summer, but it does not need to be planted in open ground, this will create stress for it, and it will start to hurt, you just need to take the pot outside. You can put it on the balcony if you live in an apartment. While it is on the street, be attentive to the weather, the herae does not like rain, in no case leave it in the rain, heavy rain can completely destroy the plant.

Scented geranium (pelargonium)

Geranium (Pelargonium) Fragrant

Fragrant geranium it is named for a reason, this variety is indeed very fragrant, has a very bright aroma. If you touch its leaves, it will simply surround you with its scent. In this aroma, you can clearly catch notes of mint, ginger, lemon, a little rose and even strawberry, this variety has such a unique aroma.

Nowadays, thanks to the efforts of botanists, unique hybrids of this variety have already been bred, which exude aromas of apples, anise, pine and even, which is difficult to imagine, the aroma of kiwi.

The flowers of this variety are not at all large, they are only purple and pink in color. They have different forms, there is no exact description of the forms.

The leaves are divided into 5-7 parts and they are always terry.

Geranium (Pelargonium) Angel

Geranium (Pelargonium) Angel

Angel - this variety stands out among the rest for its unusual colors, they look like "Pansies". They also have dark spots or stripes on the top two petals, which is quite unusual for geraniums. These unique flowers come in pink, white and purple tones, and the shades can be varied.

This variety grows not large and not small, its growth reaches 35 cm in height. She has very beautiful branching, especially with proper pruning, the bush looks very aesthetically pleasing thanks to the lush branches that look simply luxurious.

Ivy Geranium (Pelargonium)

Geranium (pelargonium) Ivy

Ivy geranium was bred by botanists by crossing. She is an ampelous plant. The leaves of this geranium are similar to ivy leaves, which, in general, gave the plant its name. Such geranium is intended for growing in hanging flowerpots, it is used to decorate loggias and balconies, it looks simply gorgeous, especially during the flowering period.

This is the only representative of the species that is rarely grown in rooms, it was created to grow in outdoor conditions and it blooms, respectively, exclusively in the warm season, starting in May and ending around the end of September, it all depends on weather conditions.

It is necessary to plant geraniums in a bright place, it does not tolerate constant shade, but constantly falling sunlight is also destructive for it, so the place should be chosen so that the sun's rays hit the geranium only some part of the day.

The plant is watered just like everyone else, watering is needed moderate. During the rest period, watering is reduced, the soil is not watered abundantly, it will simply need to be moistened.

Flowers in ivy geraniums can be either simple or chicly terry like no others. The size of the flower is quite large, it reaches 5 cm in diameter, one flower, and their inflorescences can be up to 15 pieces. The color of flowers is very diverse, they come in various shades and range from white to black and blue. Blossoms, blotches, stripes and edging are very common on flowers. If you plant such geraniums of various colors in one pot, the effect is simply amazing.

This geranium is not small, the length of the branches can reach 1 meter in length, respectively, it is necessary to plant this variety of geranium in flowerpots suspended at a level of at least 1.5 meters from the ground.

For the winter, the geranium plant is brought into the room, but it does not fit into warm, light rooms, for the winter it must be placed in a cool place with low lighting, such a place can be, for example, a warmed corridor of a house where frost does not reach.

Pruning of this variety is carried out only at the end of winter, it is best to do this in March.

Cuttings for propagation in winter are not grown, because this is a dormant period for a plant and cuttings root very poorly. It is best to do this during pruning, that is, in early spring.

Geranium (pelargonium) Unicum

Geranium (pelargonium) Unicum

Geranium varieties unique rather tall, mature plants reach 50 cm in height. This group of varieties began to be bred back in 1870. Unicums are the easiest to care for and grow well outdoors in the open field.

The unique ones always bloom very profusely, the flowers have a varied color, they are simple and double. The color of the flowers is varied and different; flowers with dark spots and stripes are not uncommon. The flowers themselves are similar in shape to the Royal Geranium flowers, but their size is much smaller and the inflorescences themselves are not so lush. The foliage is always heavily dissected and has a very rich color and a spicy aroma that spreads after touching the leaves.

Geranium (pelargonium) succulent

Geranium (Pelargonium) Succulent

Succulent geranium named so because it is a variety obtained by crossing with succulents and it has received many of the characteristics of this plant genus.

The trunk of this species from below is always stiff, sometimes they are branchy, and there are also representatives who are more reminiscent of such an elongated root crop that has grown on the surface, which has already dried up and stiffened, and suddenly suddenly revived and released a deciduous forelock from above. These geraniums are great for decorating various bonsai. They fit perfectly into various decor of rooms that need to be decorated in a specific style.

Succulent geranium is difficult to even determine by eye that it is a geranium, but the scent of the leaves will always give it away. The appearance of the face is very unusual and it is not immediately clear whether a dwarf baobab is growing in the pot, or whether it is some kind of mythical creature that has climbed into the pot. This uniqueness and originality is the highlight that makes it absolutely unlike any plant of its kind.

There are varieties of succulent geraniums, the branches of which are covered with small thorns.

Geranium is not whimsical in leaving. Watering also requires moderate, but if you forget about watering for a long time, then from drying out it can completely shed its leaves.It will be enough to restore the water balance of the soil and new leaves will surely appear again.

When planting, this variety requires well-drained soil and good drainage at the bottom of the pot.

Lemon Geranium (Pelargonium)

Geranium (Pelargonium) Lemon

Lemon Geranium the largest representative of its kind, it is a real giant among geraniums, its height can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. It was named Lemon because of the peculiar aroma that the leaves exude, it is very similar to the scent of lemon.

She is not whimsical in care, like most geraniums. It blooms only in summer, in winter it has a dormant period. Great for outdoor cultivation. A distinctive feature of this variety, its leaves, they have a rich green color and are strongly dissected into 5-7 parts, the leaves of this variety are always lowered down. From a distance, its leaves resemble green snowflakes and look very impressive. This geranium does not tolerate being near heat sources, for example, it cannot be placed near radiators or a stove.

Watering is also moderate and no spraying in indoor conditions. In winter, the amount of watering is reduced, provided that it does not bloom.

Regardless of the variety, your geranium will always delight you with its beauty with proper care. Decide on the variety that you would like to see in your home and grow this beauty in your home without difficulty.

You can find out more about growing geraniums and caring for it in the articleGeranium (Pelargonium). Growing and Caring for Home and Outdoors. "

Recently, for the design of window sills, flower beds, the unpretentious geranium plant has been used more often, a photo of which, see later in the article. It is a pleasure to grow this plant.

Content:

Description of the plant

Geranium is the most famous indoor flower. It is easy to care for and easy to breed. A large number of species grow in the world. It can be either an annual or a perennial plant. Stems reach a height of 0.5 m. Leaves are dark green, decorated with a pattern or border. The leaves are characterized by a mint or lemon scent. The flowers are large and very beautiful. This is not only a home flower, it also grows in the wild. Found in Europe, in the Caucasus.

Almost every variety needs moisture. In order for the flower to grow well, it needs care. The shrub is resistant to winter frosts and prefers neutral, slightly acidic, and acidic soils.

Important! The main condition for growing any kind of geranium is the absence of stagnant water.

The plant loves illuminated areas, if it does not have enough light, flowering decreases, and the leaves and flowers will fade.

Benefit

This flower has many beneficial properties for the human body. For example, special substances are released into the air that adversely affect various microbes.

Leaves, stems, flowers and even roots have healing properties. Geranium-based products are characterized by a positive effect on the body due to the healing composition. This includes starch, gallic acid, gum, pectin, and tannins.

This plant prevents the secretion of fluid. It is actively used for bleeding, pharyngitis, insomnia, bowel disorders and dysentery. In addition, it helps to relieve fatigue, helps to normalize the activity of the nervous system.

Important! A flower in any form is contraindicated in pregnant women, people with chronic diseases and in old age.

Common diseases

Growing bushes is not difficult. The plant rarely gets sick. The most common geranium diseases are brown spot and powdery mildew. So that the geranium does not get sick, it must be cut off after flowering. If the plant does get sick, then the diseased leaves must be cut off and burned.

Varieties with names and photos

There are many types of geraniums, both garden and indoor. They differ in terms of flowering, growing conditions, height.

Types of geraniums by height:

1. Stunted. Plant height below 0.5 m.These include ash, Dalmatian, large rhizome, Himalayan geraniums.
2. Tall. Plants in height from 0.5 m. These types include: magnificent, flat-leaved, forest, red-brown, meadow, Georgian.

Geraniums are divided into the following groups:

1. Royal.
2. Variegated.
3. Succulent.
4. Fragrant.
5. Ampel geranium.
6. Zonal.

Let's get acquainted with some types of plants in more detail.

Royal geranium

The royal variety is distinguished by its size and brightness of colors. In addition, this plant is very picky in care, which confirms its name. Flowers come in different shades, from white to purple. The flower feels comfortable in a room with high humidity, but does not tolerate direct sunlight.

The average height of the bush is 60-80 cm. It blooms quite beautifully, but not for long.

Geranium tulip

This variety got its name because of the similarity of its flowers to small tulips, and this is its main difference from other varieties of geraniums. The flower of this species does not exceed 1 cm in length. On 1 stem - 1 inflorescence of about 50 flowers. The color of the flowers is different: from light pink to burgundy. Usually the inside of the petals is darker than the outside. The leaves are shiny and hard to the touch. The height of the plant is different, 30-70 cm.

Geranium room

Indoor geranium is divided into types:

• ampelous (curly);
• bush (low).

The flower has a powerful stem, approximately 60 cm high, with dissected leaves. Inflorescences are located at the tops of the shoots and are characterized by an umbrella.

This variety is characterized by abundant flowering from early spring to mid-winter. The flowers of the plant come in different colors: red, yellow, white, etc.

Fragrant geranium

This variety is very unpretentious to care for and, as a result, is popular. This garden species has a well-developed rhizome. The leaves of the plant are covered with villi and have a scent that gives the plant its name. The flowers are small, collected in white-pink umbrellas.

Meadow geranium

This perennial plant grows in countries with a temperate climate in deciduous, coniferous forests, meadows, and mountain river valleys. This species has a short root, a tough, strong stem, five-part thick leaves and umbrella-shaped flowers. The species is known for its medicinal properties.

Blood red geranium

Red geranium has a fleshy and rather long root. The bush reaches a height of 10-50 cm, takes on an attractive lush shape up to 0.5 m wide. The stem is hard, densely leafy. With the arrival of autumn, the stems of the flower, as well as the leaves, become bright red, thereby justifying the name. Flowers consist of 5 petals, simple or semi-double. Flowers from light pink to red are found.

Garden geranium

This ornamental plant is characterized by delicate and very beautiful flowers. There are both annual and perennial varieties. Garden flowers are popular in different countries. Flowers come in a variety of shades besides orange and yellow.

Ivy geranium

This plant has a hanging shape. The plant got its name from the shape of the leaves that resemble ivy leaves. They are firm to the touch. The variety is characterized by long, hanging down branches. The bush can be up to 1 m long.

Geranium is gorgeous

This variety is a hybrid garden shrub, reaching a height of 50 cm. This plant begins to bloom at the beginning of summer. The flowers are lilac. In autumn, the flowers turn wine red, orange and yellow. This species does not bear seeds and reproduces in a strictly vegetative way.

Geranium rosebud

This species is distinguished by bright decorative leaves and flowers. A border runs along the edge of the leaves. This shrub reaches a height of 0.8 m. Rosebud geranium is grown both at home and in gardens. The plant blooms throughout the summer. In the fall, the plant is dug up, pruned and left in a cool place.

Pelargonium and geranium difference

Due to the different genetic characteristics, these plants cannot be crossed with each other.Pelargonium is native to the southern countries, while geranium is native to the north. For this reason, geraniums can bloom at a temperature of +12 degrees, and pelargonium blooms only in greenhouse or apartment conditions. Pelargonium is usually grown in apartments, and geraniums thrive even in gardens.

Correct care

In order for the plant to grow well, it is necessary to correctly make a flower garden, and weeds will not germinate near the bushes. It is recommended to weed the plant in late spring. In addition, in May it is necessary to loosen and fertilize the soil. Subsequent care consists in watering the bush.

Important! When the shoots start to wither, they must be cut off. Some species need to be tied up.

Reproduction

These flowers reproduce in the following ways:

• seeds;
• vegetatively.

The bush bears fruit well. Seeds from ripe fruits are spread throughout the territory, so their collection is difficult. Seeds harvested in August can be sown immediately and form seedlings before winter begins.

Important! Winter is considered the best time for disembarkation.

Seedlings must first be planted in a special nursery. The formed bushes are planted in the flower garden. The simplest, easiest and most successful way to grow is reproduction by dividing the bush. It is recommended to do this with the onset of spring or late summer.

Essential oil

From the leaves of perennial varieties, distilled with water vapor, they make a colorless essential oil, the aroma of which resembles the scent of a rose. This flower is able to cure depression, sore throat, nose and ears.
Essential oil is an excellent antidepressant and pain reliever.

1. With its help, mental as well as physical activity increases.
2. The oil is able to restore the skin after frostbite and burns.
3. The oil is characterized by the ability to normalize blood pressure and circulation.
4. It is used to treat neuritis and neuralgia.
5. Geranium oil normalizes the hormonal balance of the female body.

Important! The essential oil should not be taken for more than 2 weeks. You can not take the remedy on an empty stomach.

This useful and beautiful plant can often be found on window sills, balconies, and gardens.

Geranium on the windowsill is a classic of the genre in home crop production. And if you think that this flower is too boring and suitable only for grandmother's chest of drawers, then you are deeply mistaken. Modern varieties of pelargonium may be completely different from the bored meter "kalachiki". And the flowers, and the shape of the leaves, and even their smell can be completely different. Interesting? Then let's try to figure out what an ordinary geranium can be.

Variety of pelargonium species

The species and varietal diversity of pelargonium does not allow the adoption of a single classification of this plant. But the most common division into 6 types:

• pelargonium is zonal;
• ivy pelargoniums (ampelous);
• royal pelargoniums;
• pelargonium angels;
• unique;
• fragrant pelargoniums.

Zonal pelargoniums - Zonal pelargoniums

The most widespread species, represented by the largest number of varieties (over 75 thousand). This pelargonium received the designation “zonal” because on its leaf plates there is a “zone” painted in a different color - usually in the form of a ring or a color spot in the center. With a lack of lighting, for example, in winter, the "zone" disappears, and reappears in the spring.

Zonal Pelargonium Orbit Scarlet Eye in balcony boxes

Pelargonium zonal is a densely leafy, erect bush with flowers collected in umbrella brushes. Her leaves are pubescent, have a specific smell.

They began to cultivate zonal pelargonium in culture in 1710. These inhabitants of the windowsills were tall and represented a long watchtower with small inflorescences. Later, breeders took up the development of shorter varieties that could be formed by pinching. The first such varieties appeared in 1844.

By the number of flower petals, zonal pelargoniums are divided into:

• non-double (Single Zonal pelargoniums) - the flower consists of 5 petals;
• semi-double (Semi-Double Pelargoium Zonale) - from 6-8 petals;
• terry (Double Zonal pelargoniums) - more than 8 petals.

Among the mass of varieties of zonal pelargoniums, separate subgroups are distinguished:

1. Rosaceae (Rose-bud Zonal pelargoniums)

Zonal pelargonium with flowers very similar to roses. The first mention of the subgroup appeared in 1876, in an article in the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society. The most famous variety is Appleblossum Rosebud.

Zonal Pelargonium from the group of rosebud varieties - Millfield Rose

2. Tulip (Tulipe-bud pelargonium)

Pelargonium flowers resemble unopened tulip buds with 6-9 petals. The subgroup is characterized by dense flowering in the form of a bunch. Tulip pelargoniums were obtained in 1966 by the American Andrea family of breeders in Boston. It is believed that the ancestor of the subgroup was the sport (mutation) of Pelargonium Fiat, to the appearance of which varietal “tulips” sometimes return.

Tulip Pelargonium Patricia Andrea

3. Carnation (Carnation Pelargonium)

Flowers of this subgroup resemble garden carnation flowers. They are large enough with carved petals.

Clove Pelargonium - Diana Palmer cultivar

4. Stellar (Stellar Zonal Pelargonium)

In these zonal pelargoniums, both leaves and flowers have a sharp, angular, so-called "star" shape. Usually, the flower has two upper petals that are more elongated and narrower than the rest. For the first time, stellate pelargoniums appeared on the windowsills of amateur flower growers in the early 1950s. in Australia.

Star Pelargonium St. Elmos fire

5. Cactus (Cactus-flowered Zonal pelargoniums)

A very rare subgroup of pelargonium, characterized by long, curled or curled flower petals. They often look "disheveled" or like cactus dahlia flowers. The cactus group has been known since the end of the 19th century, now most of the varietal assortment has been lost.

Pelargonium cactus Mrs. Salter bevis

6. "Deacons" (Deacon)

The first "Deacons" arose from the crossing of the Orion zonal miniature and the Blue Peter ivy-leaved pelargonium. Breeder - Stanley Stringer. New varieties of geraniums were presented by him at the "Flower Show" in Chelsea in 1970. Features of this subgroup - compact, miniature bush, abundant flowering. The flowers are red, orange or pink in different shades.

Zonal pelargonium of the "Deacons" group, variety Deacon Birthday

Pelargonium ivy - ampelous plants with hanging or creeping shoots 25-100 cm long. They are very popular when decorating balconies and loggias, although they can also be used outdoors as ground covers.

Flowers of ampelous pelargonium can be of any shape: non-double, double, rosebud. Their colors are quite extensive: from snow-white to wine-burgundy, almost black.

Pelargonium ivy Bonito

The leaves of the ampelous geranium are smooth, similar to ivy leaves (hence the name of the group). In most varieties, the leaves are quite tough and dense.

Geranium ampelous has been cultivated in culture since the beginning of the 18th century, but it received wide recognition only in the middle of the 19th century. From that moment, breeders began to take an active interest in this plant, and in 1877 they released the first terry ampelous pelargonium of the Konig Albert variety.

Geranium ampelous Pac Blue Sybil Royal Pelargoniums - Regal pelargoniums

Royal Pelargoniums are powerful bushy plants, reaching a height of 50 cm. The flowers are large, up to 4-7 cm in diameter. The edges of the petals are often corrugated and fringed. Their color is never uniform due to the obligatory presence of dark spots or stripes along the veins. Many varieties of royal geraniums have darker upper petals than lower ones. The predominant colors are white, burgundy, dark pink, purple.

Royal Pelargonium Tunia's Perfecta

The royal geranium has broad, serrated leaves. They resemble maple leaves in shape, but with smaller and more frequent "teeth".

By their nature, royal geraniums are more capricious than other groups. The period of its flowering is no more than 3-4 months (for comparison: zonal pelargonium with good illumination can bloom all year round, without stopping) and then only with a properly arranged period of winter dormancy. In order for the budding to occur, royal geraniums should be kept at a temperature of 10-12 ° C in winter.

In order for the royal pelargonium to bloom, it needs 2-3 months of cool wintering

Many growers believe that "Angels" belong to the variety series of royal pelargoniums. But this is not the case.The first true "Angels" were obtained by the English florist Langley Smith by crossing the royal and curly pelargonium. It happened in the 1930s. Later, new varieties of Pelargonium "Angels" were bred in the process of hybridization within the group itself.

Pelargonium "Angel" - grade Eskay Saar

The "Angels" differ from the royal pelargoniums by the smaller size of leaves and flowers (diameter 1-2 cm). The type of growth of the "queens" is vertical, while the "angels" form ampelous bushes.

"Angels" are more persistent and unpretentious than varieties of royal geraniums. They grow fast, need a lot of light and tolerate dry conditions well.

Pelargoniums "Unique" - Unique pelargoniums

"Unicums" - an old group of pelargoniums, cultivated since the 60s of the 18th century. It was obtained by crossing the royal and brilliant (P. fulgidum) pelargonium. The first variety was named Old Unique. Subsequently, all representatives of the group were united under the common name Unique pelargoniums.

Pelargonium "Unique" - Robin's Unique

Flowers "Unicums" are similar to the flowers of royal pelargonium, but smaller in size. Leaves are dissected, sometimes with a fragrant smell. For example, the leaves of Paton's Unique have a sweet, peachy aroma.

During the Victorian era, Unicums were very popular as garden plants. Plants are rather large and tall. To bloom, their growth should be 40-50 cm. They bush poorly on their own, pinching or pruning is required.

Scented-leaved pelargoniums

Fragrant geraniums form a group of varieties, the leaves of which exude aromas of different shades.

Most of the "fragrant" outwardly unprepossessing, their flowers are small, simple, most often pink or white. Leaves are palmate-lobed, with uneven angular or wavy edges. The plant forms a branched, loose bush that grows up to 1 m in height.

Sarah Jane fragrant geranium has a light citrus aroma

Scented geraniums are grown for their scent. Their leaves can smell like pineapple, peach, apple, verbena, grapefruit, nutmeg, oriental spices, roses, pine needles, wormwood, mint, etc.

Choose varieties and flavors:

• Islington Peppermint - pure mint flavor, no impurities
• Mabel Gray - strong and distinct lemon scent
• Brilliantine - a perfumery scent similar to cologne
• Fruity - sweet fruity scent
• Orange Fizz - Strongest Lemon Peel Flavor
• Candy Dancer - rose scent
• P.grossularioides - sweet, confectionery smell with hints of coconut
• p. odoratissimum - apple flavor
• Lady Plymouth - smells like menthol
• Gemstone - delicate lemon balm scent
• Orsett - pine scent (juniper, cypress)
• Clorinda - bright scent of spruce needles
• Fragran - clear scent of wormwood
• Staghorn Oak - strong forest scent
• Godfrey's Pride - "perfume" with notes of pine, spices and mint
• Fair Ellen - "forest", woody scent
• Fernleaf - pine needles scent
• p. Moliconum - Smells like pineapple

Most of the fragrant geraniums appeared in the process of crossing the species pelargonium. Although, some of them themselves are specific (for example, p. Odoratissimum - the most fragrant pelargonium).

In the 18th century, fragrant geranium was used in wealthy homes as a natural air freshener, "perfume" on the windowsill. Until now, this plant is very popular among amateur flower growers, private collectors.