Geranium Pelargonium Solidor (I/d)

Water

Geraniums like the Pelargonium Solidor prefer to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means watering thoroughly once every 1 to 2 weeks, allowing water to run through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. During the active growing season in spring and summer, provide about 8 to 12 ounces of water per plant, depending on the pot size and environmental conditions. Reduce watering in the fall and winter months to prevent waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.

Light

Geraniums, such as the Pelargonium Solidor, thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. They can be placed in an east-or west-facing window where they receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. Direct afternoon sun can be harsh, especially in warmer climates, so a location that receives morning sunlight or filtered afternoon light is ideal for these plants.

Temperature

Geraniums like the Pelargonium Solidor thrive in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F, as they are not cold-hardy. They can survive short periods of higher temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85°F may stress the plant. The ideal temperature range for geraniums is close to room temperature, offering some flexibility but prioritizing a warmer and stable environment.

Pruning

Geraniums, like Pelargonium Solidor, should be pruned to encourage bushy growth and to remove faded or dead flowers and leaves. Pruning is best done in the early spring before the onset of new growth, or throughout the growing season as needed. Older plants can be rejuvenated by cutting back a third of the growth. Deadheading, or the removal of spent blooms, should be done regularly to promote continuous flowering.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Geraniums thrive in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of one part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal for providing the right balance of drainage and moisture retention for Pelargonium Solidor.

Repotting

Geraniums should be repotted every one to two years to provide fresh soil and encourage growth. If the plant has outgrown its current pot, repot it in the spring before new growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Geraniums prefer moderate to low humidity levels. They can tolerate dry air well, so maintaining indoor humidity between 30% to 50% is ideal for Pelargonium Solidor. Avoid excessively high humidity to prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place geranium in bright light, avoiding direct midday sun.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-draining soil; ensure full to partial sun.

• Hardiness zone

  9-12 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium 'Solidor' (Pelargonium × hortorum) begins its life as a seed, with germination occurring under warm conditions after sowing. Upon sprouting, the seedling enters a vegetative stage where it develops a rosette of leaves and establishes a root system. As the plant matures, it enters a rapid growth phase where stems elongate and new leaves form, leading to the development of the distinct Geranium foliage. The next stage is the flowering period, which occurs when the plant has sufficient energy and daylight to produce vibrant red, pink, or white flowers, often in clusters, attracting pollinators. After pollination, if successful, the plant produces seed capsules, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, as a perennial in warm climates but often treated as an annual in temperate zones, the Geranium 'Solidor' may either die back in cold weather or persist and enter a period of dormancy before resuming growth in the next season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• Pelargonium, commonly known as geranium, is a plant that can be easily propagated by cuttings, a method favored for its simplicity and effectiveness. The best time to propagate geraniums through cuttings is during the late summer to early fall when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy non-flowering shoot should be selected. Cut a 4 to 6 inch (about 10 to 15 centimeters) length, making sure that there are at least three nodes present. The bottom leaves of the cutting are removed, and the cut end is allowed to dry and callous for a couple of hours. Afterward, the cutting is planted in a moist, well-draining soil mix, with about half of the cutting buried, including two nodes. Rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end to encourage root growth, but this is optional. The cutting should then be placed in bright, indirect light and kept at a temperature of around 70°F (approximately 21°C), ensuring the soil stays damp but not waterlogged until roots have established, usually within a few weeks.