Old Fashioned Geraniums: The Timeless Beauty of These Classic Plants

Oleh Anonymous August 10, 2023 Post a Comment

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Geraniums are one of the most popular flowering plants in the world. They come in many different varieties and colors, but the old-fashioned geraniums are still some of the most beloved by gardeners everywhere. These classic plants have been around for centuries and continue to be popular today because of their beauty, versatility, and ease of care.

What Are Old Fashioned Geraniums?

Old fashioned geraniums, also known as Pelargoniums, are a type of flowering plant that originated in South Africa. They were introduced to Europe in the early 17th century and quickly became popular among gardeners. Today, there are hundreds of different varieties of old fashioned geraniums, each with its own unique color, shape, and scent.

Types of Old Fashioned Geraniums

There are several types of old fashioned geraniums, including:

Zonal Geraniums: These are the most common type of geraniums and are characterized by their distinctive "zones" or bands of color on their leaves.
Ivy Geraniums: These geraniums have trailing stems that make them perfect for hanging baskets and window boxes.
Scented Geraniums: These geraniums have fragrant leaves that smell like lemon, rose, mint, or other scents.
Regal Geraniums: These are the most showy and dramatic of all geraniums, with large blooms in bright colors.

How to Care for Old Fashioned Geraniums

Old fashioned geraniums are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your old fashioned geraniums:

Watering: Geraniums prefer to be kept on the dry side, so be sure not to overwater them. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Geraniums benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully.
Pruning: Regular pruning will help keep your geraniums looking their best. Remove spent blooms and dead or yellowing leaves as needed.
Sunlight: Geraniums require at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. However, they can also tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
Pests and Diseases: Geraniums can be susceptible to pests like spider mites and whiteflies, as well as diseases like powdery mildew. Be sure to monitor your plants regularly and treat any issues promptly.

Uses for Old Fashioned Geraniums

Old fashioned geraniums have many uses in the garden and beyond. Here are just a few:

In the Garden

As border plants: Geraniums make great edging plants along garden beds or paths.
In containers: Geraniums are perfect for pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets.
In mixed plantings: Geraniums can be combined with other flowers and foliage plants to create beautiful, colorful displays.

Other Uses

As cut flowers: Geranium blooms make lovely cut flowers that can last for several days in a vase.
For aromatherapy: Scented geraniums can be used to make essential oils and other fragrances.
In cooking: Some types of scented geraniums, such as lemon or rose, can be used to flavor desserts and other dishes.

Where to Buy Old Fashioned Geraniums

Old fashioned geraniums can be found at most garden centers and nurseries. They are also widely available online from specialty growers and retailers. When shopping for geraniums, be sure to choose healthy, well-established plants with bright green leaves and no signs of pests or disease.

Old fashioned geraniums may be classic plants, but their timeless beauty and versatility continue to make them popular among gardeners everywhere. Whether you're looking for a showy display for your garden, a fragrant addition to your home, or an easy-to-care-for plant for your patio or balcony, old fashioned geraniums are a great choice.