Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse' Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse' (I/d)

Water

The Geranium 'Alice Crousse' should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, which is approximately every 7 to 10 days, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. It's important to avoid overwatering, ensuring the pot has proper drainage to prevent root rot. Water the plant with room temperature water, providing about 16 ounces for smaller pots and up to 2 gallons for larger containers, evenly distributing the water around the base of the plant without splashing the leaves to minimize the risk of disease.

Light

Geraniums, like 'Alice Crousse,' thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and can also tolerate direct sunlight for part of the day, making a spot near an east or south-facing window ideal. They perform best with at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily, but during the hot summer months, they should be protected from the harsh, midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Temperature

Geraniums, including 'Alice Crousse,' prefer a temperate climate with daytime temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures about 10 degrees cooler. They can survive minimum temperatures of 50 degrees Fahrenheit but will not tolerate frost. The ideal temperature for promoting lush growth and vibrant blooms in 'Alice Crousse' is within this preferred range.

Pruning

Prune Geranium 'Alice Crousse' to encourage bushy growth and to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and spent blooms. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back up to one-third of the plant's length, making clean cuts just above a leaf node. Regular deadheading of the flowers will also promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for geraniums, such as the Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse', should be well-draining and fertile with a pH ranging between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix consisting of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil works well for these plants.

Repotting

Geraniums like Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse' should be repotted every 1-2 years or when they outgrow their current container, to ensure they have enough room to grow and to refresh the soil.

Humidity & Misting

Geraniums, including Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse', prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. They do not require high humidity and can tolerate the drier air found in most homes.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place geranium in bright light, not direct sun, and moderate temps.

• Outdoor

  Place in partial sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays.

• Hardiness zone

  9-12 USDA

Life cycle

Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse', commonly known as a variety of geranium, first begins its life as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil. Upon germination, the seedling emerges with its first set of true leaves, entering the growth phase where it develops a root system and foliage. As a perennial, it enters a vegetative stage where it grows rapidly, producing lush leaves and stems. Once mature, typically within a few months, it starts the flowering stage, producing vibrant blooms that attract pollinators. After pollination, it sets seed once again, although many geraniums are also propagated through cuttings. In temperate climates, it may enter a period of dormancy during cold weather before resuming growth in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Pelargonium 'Alice Crousse', commonly known as geranium, is most popularly propagated through stem cuttings. To ensure successful propagation, take a healthy stem cutting approximately 4-6 inches (about 10-15 cm) long during late spring or early summer when the plant’s growth is most vigorous. Cut just below a node using a clean, sharp knife or scissors to minimize damage and infection. Remove the lower leaves to expose a few nodes, as roots will develop from these points. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few hours before inserting the cutting into a moist potting mix. Place the cutting in a warm, indirect light area and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rooting usually occurs within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be potted up individually.