Geranium Pelargonium 'Magic Lantern' (Z/c)

Water

Geraniums like Pelargonium 'Magic Lantern' prefer soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Generally, water your Geranium when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might be approximately once a week, but the frequency will depend on the climate and indoor conditions. When watering, use room temperature water and add enough so that it starts to run out of the bottom of the pot, indicating the soil is thoroughly moist. Avoid getting water on the leaves to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. On average, using about 8-16 ounces of water every week should be sufficient, but always adjust based on the plant's response and the ambient conditions.

Light

Geraniums require bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Pelargonium 'Magic Lantern' thrives in a location where it can receive about 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight a day. Avoid placing it in direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves, but ensure it gets plenty of light, such as near a south or west-facing window with a sheer curtain to diffuse the direct sun.

Temperature

Geraniums like Pelargonium 'Magic Lantern' prefer moderate temperatures between 65°F and 75°F during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F as they are not frost-tolerant. They can survive short periods of higher temperatures but prolonged exposure to heat above 85°F can stress the plant. The ideal temperature range allows for healthy growth and blooming.

Pruning

Geraniums, such as Pelargonium 'Magic Lantern', benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Prune in early spring before new growth starts, removing dead or yellowing leaves and any spindly stems. During the growing season, deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering. Pruning can be done every few months to maintain shape and vigor, with the best time being after a flowering cycle has ended.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Geraniums prefer well-draining potting mix with equal parts peat, perlite, and compost. The ideal soil pH for Geranium 'Magic Lantern' should be between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Geraniums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth. Overgrown plants can be divided during repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels; however, they are quite adaptable to average indoor humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Geranium 'Magic Lantern' in bright, indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  Outdoors, grow Geranium 'Magic Lantern' in sun to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium 'Magic Lantern' begins its life cycle when its seeds are sown and germinate, a process which typically takes place under warm conditions with moist soil. Once germinated, the seedling stage involves the formation of essential organs like leaves and roots, during which the plant is especially fragile. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the plant grows larger, develops a stronger root system, and produces more foliage, preparing it for the flowering stage. The flowering stage is when the plant exhibits colorful blooms that attract pollinators, essential for the plant's reproduction. After pollination, the plant produces seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. Finally, as a perennial, Geranium 'Magic Lantern' may enter a period of dormancy during colder months, to later resume growth in the following growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Pelargonium 'Magic Lantern', commonly known as Geranium 'Magic Lantern', is best propagated during its active growth period, which is usually in the spring or early summer. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by stem cuttings. To propagate, take a 4 to 6 inch cutting from a healthy, mature plant, ensuring there are at least three sets of leaves on the cutting. Strip off the bottom set of leaves to expose the nodes and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining potting mix and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Place the cutting in bright, indirect sunlight and maintain a consistent temperature around 70°F (21°C). Roots should develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots.