Ivy Geranium Pelargonium 'Red Cascade' (I)

Water

For the trailing geranium Pelargonium 'Red Cascade', watering should be thorough, allowing water to run through the soil until it starts to drip out of the bottom of the pot. This plant prefers the soil to be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. On average, during the growing season in spring and summer, watering once a week with about 16-24 ounces of water is usually sufficient, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity. During the dormant period in fall and winter, reduce watering frequency to every other week, using the same amount of water per session.

Light

The trailing geranium Pelargonium 'Red Cascade' thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Though it can tolerate some direct sunlight, particularly in the morning, extended exposure to hot afternoon sun can be damaging.

Temperature

Trailing geraniums like Pelargonium 'Red Cascade' prefer temperatures between 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can survive minimum temperatures of 30 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to frost. The maximum temperature tolerated is typically around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, beyond which they may start to show signs of stress.

Pruning

Pruning trailing geraniums like Pelargonium 'Red Cascade' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and spent blooms regularly. For vigorous growth, prune back up to one-third of the plant in early spring. Do this pruning before the onset of the growing season for the best results.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The ideal soil mix for a trailing geranium (Pelargonium 'Red Cascade') should be well-draining and fertile, a mix of loam or potting soil with added peat, compost, and perlite or sand works well. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Trailing geraniums like Pelargonium 'Red Cascade' should be repotted every one to two years, or when they outgrow their current pot, to refresh the soil and provide space for root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Trailing geraniums, such as Pelargonium 'Red Cascade', prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate dry air. No specific humidity level is required for these plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water regularly.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade, water when soil feels dry.

• Hardiness zone

  9-12 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium 'Red Cascade' begins life as a seed, which when sown in warm, well-draining soil and provided with adequate moisture, will germinate. Upon emergence, the seedlings develop true leaves and, with proper light and water, grow into compact, bushy plants. As they mature, Geranium 'Red Cascade' plants will flower, displaying their vibrant red blooms which attract pollinators and can also be deadheaded to encourage further blooming. These perennials will enter a dormancy period in cooler climates, where they die back to the ground and require protection or to be brought indoors. With the return of warmer temperatures, they will regrow from their root system, beginning the cycle anew. Propagation can also be achieved through cuttings, allowing for new plants that will follow a similar life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Ivy Geranium, known botanically as Pelargonium 'Red Cascade', is best propagated through stem cuttings, a popular and effective method for multiplying these plants. To propagate using stem cuttings, take a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, ideally during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Remove the bottom leaves to expose the nodes, as roots will develop from these points. Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to facilitate faster root development, although this step is optional. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that at least one node is buried. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area but out of direct sunlight until the cutting has rooted, which generally takes a few weeks. Once established with a robust root system, the new Ivy Geranium plants can be transplanted to their final location.