Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone' Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone' (Sc)

Water

Geraniums such as 'Olga Shipstone' prefer their soil to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering once a week with about 6-8 ounces of water for a standard 6-inch pot. In winter, reduce watering to every other week, ensuring you provide slightly less water, about 4-6 ounces, as the plant's growth slows down. Always avoid letting the pot sit in standing water, and make sure the container has good drainage to prevent root rot.

Light

Geraniums thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Place your 'Olga Shipstone' near a south or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of light without the harsh direct rays of the sun. If the light is too intense, use a sheer curtain to diffuse it. These light conditions will encourage abundant flowering and healthy foliage growth.

Temperature

Geraniums prefer moderate temperatures and will flourish when kept in an environment between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the night but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as they are not frost-tolerant. The ideal temperature range ensures vibrant growth and flowering.

Pruning

Pruning your Geranium 'Olga Shipstone' is crucial for maintaining a bushy, compact shape and encouraging more blooms. Pinch off any leggy stems and deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new growth. The best time for a more extensive pruning is in early spring or just before the growing season begins. Pruning can be done several times throughout the growing season if necessary.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the geranium (Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone') is well-draining potting soil amended with perlite or sand to enhance drainage. The soil pH should ideally be in the range of 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Geraniums (Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone') should be repotted every 1 to 2 years, or when they outgrow their current container.

Humidity & Misting

Geraniums (Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone') prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, and do well in typical indoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water weekly.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade, and ensure soil drains well.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone', commonly known as Scented Geranium, begins its life when seeds are sown into well-drained soil and germinate, which usually occurs in warm, temperate conditions. The seedlings then develop true leaves and establish a root system, gradually maturing into vegetative plants with characteristic fragrant foliage. As the plants grow, they enter a phase of budding, where flower stalks emerge and buds form, typically in response to lengthening daylight. The buds bloom into clusters of small flowers, varying in color, and after pollination, which can be facilitated by insects or wind, the flowers develop into fruit containing seeds, thus completing the reproductive stage. The plants can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings, where sections of the stem are rooted to form new plants that are genetically identical to the parent. With adequate care, including proper sunlight, water, and fertilization, Scented Geraniums can live for several years, repeating the flowering and seeding cycle annually or as conditions permit.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Fall

• Propogation: The Pelargonium 'Olga Shipstone', commonly known as a scented geranium, is most effectively propagated through stem cuttings. This method is popular because it reliably produces an exact clone of the parent plant. The best time for taking cuttings is in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. For propagation, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the pot in indirect light, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the plastic can be removed, and the new plant gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions.