Wednesday, February 22, 2006
New Plants in the Mail
It's a great day when a package comes: Today I received a package containing six new scented geraniums from Geraniaceae.com! WooHooooo!!! Right away we opened the package and lifted their little heads up so they could get some light.
The newcomers
The new arrivals were carefully packed: Each rootball was wrapped in damp sphagnum moss and newspaper, then placed in a plastic bag. The leaves and branches were protected by styrofoam packing peanuts. UPS Ground delivery got them here quickly (California to Nevada). All looked well and happy when potted up.
Online Shopping Review: 2 Green Thumbs Up
My observation is that Robin Parer of Geraniaceae.com takes great pride and care in preparing orders. I was informed very quickly of shipping plans and everything went like clockwork. The plants are large, healthy and well-rooted. I am delighted to give Geraniaceae my highest recommendation!
Friday, February 17, 2006
A Serious Pruning
At this time of year, a typical scented geranium is looking kind of rough. It is leggy and unkempt. Now is the time to take all the cuttings you can stand. Now cut back as seriously as you can. I like to leave some new growth for good luck.
This severe pruning seems harsh, but it accomplishes a lot of good for the plant. When the older, stressed growth is removed, along with it goes disease and pests. All nutrients will be focused on the new growth.
Pay attention for any sign of stem rot. If so, try to cut it out and be sure to sanitize your knife or scissors before moving on to another plant. Start some cuttings as a back up.
Add a little fresh potting soil to replace any that has washed out over time. Water with manure tea or Miracle Gro - your preference.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Rooting Plantlets from a Runner
A Coconut geranium runner
I have been wondering if the plantlets growing along Coconut geranium runners could be rooted. Today I cut apart a runner and gave it a try. I stuck part of the runner stem in the ground, and made sure that the axiol where the leaves are coming out is in contact with the soil.
Coconut geranium plantlets now on their own
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Coconut Geranium Volunteers
Coconut geranium seedling 2/14/06
Yesterday I transplanted 4 tiny seedlings of Pelargonium grossularioides (Coconut geranium) into their own little 4" pots. Each is still looking perky 24 hours after being moved. That is in spite of an environmental challenge: cold, dry winds out of the northwest, with gusts up to 43 mph.
Two days ago I transplanted an older seedling from its original spot in with the Nutmeg geranium to its own seperate pot. It reacted badly to the move. Its larger, outer leaves all wilted and will be cast off. The center, young leaves are strong and healthy, and I'm sure it will survive.
More Cuttings Rooting
Cuttings of Brilliant (foreground)
and Nutmeg geraniums
Started 36 new geranium cuttings this week - 12 each of Brilliant, Ginger, and Nutmeg. So far everything looks great! No sign of wilt or rot. I am keeping the cuttings lined up against a west-facing wall. They are receiving about 2-3 hours of morning sun.
Flats of scented pelargonium cuttings 2/14/06
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
New Starts
The weather in southern Nevada this week could be called "spring-like", although technically it is still winter. It is close enough to spring to start some new scented geraniums. This is how I do it:
- Using a sharp knife or scissors, choose a healthy looking branch tip and cut off about five inches.
- Strip the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
- Dip the bare end in Rootone + fungicide and shake off excess.
- Plant the cutting in its own little pot with a good potting soil.
- Water in and wait!
Lime geranium cutting ready for rooting
Results of my afternoon fun: I started 12 cuttings each of 4 different geraniums - lime, citrosa, chocolate mint, and Dr. Livingstone.
Ready, set, root!
