Stellar Geranium Pelargonium 'Stellar Deanna Westwood'

Water

Stellar geraniums should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, approximately every 7 to 10 days, but this frequency can vary depending on climate and indoor conditions. When watering, use room temperature water and soak the soil until water runs out of the bottom of the pot, indicating that the soil is fully saturated. Ensure that any excess water is drained away to prevent root rot. During the growing season in spring and summer, these plants may require more frequent watering, perhaps once or twice a week, but always check the soil moisture before adding water. In the winter, reduce watering to prevent over-saturating the soil, as the plant’s water needs decrease.

Light

Stellar geraniums require bright, indirect sunlight to thrive, with an ideal spot being near a south or west-facing window where they can get at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. Direct midday sun should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves, so if the light is too intense, consider using a sheer curtain to filter it. If the plant is not receiving enough light, its stems may become leggy and its flowering may be reduced.

Temperature

Stellar geraniums prefer a temperature range between 65°F and 75°F during the day, and they can tolerate nighttime temperatures as low as 55°F. They should be kept away from drafts and sudden temperature changes. Protect them from frost and avoid temperatures below 50°F, as these plants are not frost-tolerant. Maintaining a consistent temperature within the ideal range will help ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Pruning

Prune stellar geraniums to encourage bushier growth, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and promote more vigorous flowering. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back leggy stems and any spent flower stalks to just above a node or a set of leaves. Regular deadheading of faded blooms will also help to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Perform major pruning annually and maintain the plant’s shape through light trimming as needed.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For the Stellar Geranium (Pelargonium 'Stellar Deanna Westwood'), a well-draining potting mix is essential; use equal parts peat, pine bark, and coarse sand or perlite. An ideal pH level for this geranium should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Stellar Geraniums should be repotted every one to two years, or when the plant outgrows its current container. This ensures fresh soil and space for continued root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Stellar Geraniums prefer moderate to slightly dry humidity levels. They perform well in typical indoor humidity, without the need for extra misting or humidity trays.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water when top soil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Needs full sun to partial shade, and protection from harsh weather.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a Stellar Geranium (Pelargonium 'Stellar Deanna Westwood') begins with the germination of a seed in a soil with good drainage and ample warmth. Seedlings emerge and grow into young plants with distinctive lobed leaves, which then mature and develop the characteristic thick, succulent stems of a mature Stellar Geranium. The plant enters its flowering stage, producing vividly colored blooms that may be red, pink, purple, or white, often with contrasting markings, and this display can last from spring until fall with proper care. After flowering, if conditions allow, the plant can produce seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. In regions with cold winters, Stellar Geraniums may die back and enter a period of dormancy; however, they are often treated as annuals or overwintered indoors. With their perennial nature, if protected from frost, they can survive for several years, producing new growth and flowers each season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Pelargonium 'Stellar Deanna Westwood', commonly known as a type of Geranium, is predominantly propagated through stem cuttings. The ideal time for taking cuttings is in late summer to early fall, ensuring they establish roots before the dormancy period. To propagate, a healthy, non-flowering stem of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) is cut just below a node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The stem is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist and placed in indirect light. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted to a larger pot or to its final growing location. This method is simple, efficient, and maintains the characteristics of the parent plant.