Popularly known as royal geranium, and in scientific literature as pelargonium, it has long been used to create landscape design: for landscaping window sills and balconies, decorating gardens and roofs of houses. Such widespread use is explained not only by the beautiful appearance and delightful aromas of plants, but also by some special positive energy that they bring into the house.

Pelargonium royal: a brief description

The name of the flower was not chosen by chance. It's really royal plant. It is presented in the form of an evergreen shrub. This culture is different maximum dimensions at 50 cm.

Royal geranium grows in a wide bush, and the peduncles are placed at the same level as the shoots. The plant is characterized by large flowers, up to 15 cm in diameter. The larger petals, which are located on top, usually have dark green spots. During flowering, a geranium bush has densely dotted open buds, sometimes resembling a lush bright ball.

Pelargonium royal: decorative properties

It should be noted that for many years, breeders have been putting a lot of effort into developing new varieties of this plant. They differ in the color of the flowers, their size and shape. The shades of royal geranium today are a mass of different tones: from white to inky purple. For example, pelargonium of white and pink color (Imperial), pale red with small brown spots(Aristo Shoko) and others.

Also, the leaves of royal geranium have their own characteristics. These are rather large or small (in new species), jagged and rough leaves. Dark spots often stand out against their background and sometimes even contrasting stripes run along the veins.

The shape of the plant’s flowers is in most cases complex: their petals are double, and in some varieties they are corrugated or wavy. They are collected in several pieces and look like thick umbrellas.

Main features of the plant

Royal geranium is truly an aristocrat among other types of pelargonium. She is whimsical and light-loving.

This plant does not bloom for long: about a few months a year. Yes, and this only happens if throughout the winter she was provided with everything the necessary conditions. Royal geranium loves it if it receives additional lighting at this time.

It should be noted that this culture is afraid of wind and rain. Due to this the best option its placement will be a cozy corner of the veranda, balcony or terrace with plenty of fresh air.

Growing conditions for royal geranium

So that royal pelargonium successfully takes root on the windowsill of the house and pleases the eye for a long time wonderful flowers, it is very important to provide her with the necessary conditions:

• Correct placement. Flowers love the sun, but in hot weather they need to be removed from the windowsill, since direct hot rays of the sun can cause burns on the plant.
• Maintaining the temperature regime of royal pelargonium. It does not tolerate high temperatures or special heat, this explains why it does not bloom royal geranium. No higher than 15 degrees Celsius is the most favorable temperature for the plant. If this condition is not observed, then whiteflies or aphids may appear on the leaves of the crop.
• The peculiarities of preserving flowering for a long time are ensured by two basic rules: additional lighting in winter and rare watering.

Royal geranium: propagation

Royal pelargonium can be propagated in two ways:

• stem cuttings (throughout the year);
• seeds ( best time for planting in spring).

It should be noted that royal geranium is very popular among gardeners. Plant seeds can be purchased at almost any specialty store. They are quite large. The seeds are planted in a peat mixture in the spring, and within a week the first green shoots appear. As soon as the leaves appear, they need to be transplanted into pots. To avoid damaging the roots, they should be taken with a small lump of earth.

Stem cuttings of royal geranium are recommended to be planted in August-September. They are taken at a certain length, which ranges from 5 to 7 cm, with 2 or 3 leaves. Before planting, it is very good to wilt the plant a little and sprinkle it with crushed wood charcoal. Pots for cuttings should not be too large, as this will cause them to grow weak, including the royal geranium flower itself over time. The propagation of this crop and its excellent growth are ensured by well-prepared soil:

• peat mixture with the addition of a small amount of compost;
• garden soil, where it is recommended to add a little sand.

Wet soil is not at all suitable for planting cuttings. It should only be wet. It is advisable to make drainage in pots from small pebbles. When watering them, you should avoid getting water on the stems and leaves, as they quickly rot.

It is important to know:

• It is not advisable to germinate cuttings of royal pelargonium in water. In most cases, they still do not take root or simply rot.
• During the first 12 months of growth, the royal geranium drives out runs and grows its roots, and pleases the eye with flowers only the next year.

It is recommended to replant royal geranium when the root system has developed to such an extent that it begins to penetrate outward through the drainage hole. New peas are taken only about one and a half centimeters larger in diameter than the old ones. Tight dishes provide best growth and flowering of culture.

Problems with growing royal pelargonium

Royal geranium is a very capricious plant. When growing as a result of non-compliance with basic care rules, the following problems may occur:

• stretching of internodes, which leads to weakening of the plant, it becomes weak and does not grow;
• waterlogging of the soil or its drying out, and as a result, yellowing of the leaves;
• rust damage to leaves, the formation of aphids or whiteflies on them;
• rotting of the plant under frequent watering.

Lack of flowers in royal geranium. Causes. Ways to solve the problem

Pelargonium is a rather capricious plant that requires careful attention. Therefore, very often many gardeners have the same question about why royal geraniums do not bloom. This may be due to the following reasons:

• implementation improper care behind the plant;
• the use of frequent transplants;
• the presence of bacterial and fungal infections.

The second question that concerns many lovers of this plant: “What to do if the royal geranium does not bloom?” The first step is a thorough inspection of the royal geranium to detect the following problems: the presence of fluff on the stems, dark spots on leaves or rot, especially in the root part. Secondly, if the above signs of the disease are obvious, you should thoroughly clear the entire soil from root system royal pelargonium. Then it is placed for up to three days in a solution of potassium permanganate (it should be weak). After this, it is necessary to thoroughly clean all affected parts of the plant. It is recommended to remove them.

It is not advisable to use an old pot, and soil is strictly prohibited. New soil should be prepared, which should be steamed very well with boiling water. The old pot must be disinfected. To do this, use a solution of bleach.

Also, the plant does not bloom if the air in the room is too dry. This leads to the falling off of flower stalks and buds.

The soil used for planting cuttings of royal pelargonium must contain a sufficient amount of useful elements (phosphorus, manganese and potassium). But if there is too much nitrogen in the ground, then the plant will quickly gain greenery, but in this case there will be no flowering.

Royal geraniums do not grow and bloom well in large containers, since this does not promote budding, but leads to the growth of greenery. Wide pots are not suitable at all.

Royal geranium: care

Having such a whimsical queen on your windowsill, the first thing you need to do is provide her with normal living conditions. The following rules will tell you how to care for royal geraniums correctly:

• replant the plant every two or three years (depending on the variety);
• provide an optimal temperature range: from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius;
• adhere to moderate watering and air humidity;
• arrange additional lighting when necessary;
• It is contraindicated to place a pot of royal pelargonium in a hot place;
• in pots (it is recommended to use ceramic containers), it is necessary to make a drainage hole;
• protect the plant from wind and rain;
• timely application of fertilizers with useful minerals.

Also to ensure normal growth and active flowering Royal geraniums should undergo so-called rejuvenation: cutting off the tops (up to 2 cm). Only a systematic approach to caring for royal pelargonium contributes to normal development flower.

Popularly known as royal geranium, and in scientific literature as pelargonium, it has long been used in landscape design: for landscaping window sills and balconies, decorating gardens and roofs of houses. Such widespread use is explained not only by the beautiful appearance and delightful aromas of plants, but also by some special positive energy that they bring into the house.

Pelargonium royal: a brief description

The name of the flower was not chosen by chance. This is truly a royal plant. It is presented in the form of an evergreen shrub. This crop has a maximum size of 50 cm.

Royal geranium grows in a wide bush, and the peduncles are placed at the same level as the shoots. The plant is characterized by large flowers, up to 15 cm in diameter. The larger petals, which are located on top, usually have dark green spots. During flowering, a geranium bush has densely dotted open buds, sometimes resembling a lush bright ball.

Pelargonium royal: decorative properties

It should be noted that for many years, breeders have been putting a lot of effort into developing new varieties of this plant. They differ in the color of the flowers, their size and shape. The shades of royal geranium today are a mass of different tones: from white to inky purple. For example, white-pink pelargonium (Imperial), pale red with small brown spots (Aristo Shoko) and others are especially interesting for lovers of the flowers of this plant.

Also, the leaves of royal geranium have their own characteristics. These are rather large or small (in new species), jagged and rough leaves. Dark spots often stand out against their background and sometimes even contrasting stripes run along the veins.

The shape of the plant’s flowers is in most cases complex: their petals are double, and in some varieties they are corrugated or wavy. They are collected in several pieces and look like thick umbrellas.

Main features of the plant

Royal geranium is truly an aristocrat among other types of pelargonium. She is whimsical and light-loving.

This plant does not bloom for long: about a few months a year. And this only happens if all the necessary conditions were provided to her throughout the winter. Royal geranium loves it if it receives additional lighting at this time.

It should be noted that this culture is afraid of wind and rain. In this regard, the best option for placing it would be a cozy corner of the veranda, balcony or terrace with plenty of fresh air.

Growing conditions for royal geranium

In order for royal pelargonium to successfully take root on the windowsill of the house and delight the eye with wonderful flowers for a long time, it is very important to provide it with the necessary conditions:

• Correct placement. Flowers love the sun, but in hot weather they need to be removed from the windowsill, since direct hot rays of the sun can cause burns on the plant.
• Maintaining the temperature regime of royal pelargonium. It does not tolerate high temperatures, especially heat, this explains why royal geranium does not bloom. No higher than 15 degrees Celsius is the most favorable temperature for the plant. If this condition is not observed, then whiteflies or aphids may appear on the leaves of the crop.
• The peculiarities of preserving flowering for a long time are ensured by two basic rules: additional lighting in winter and rare watering.

Royal geranium: propagation

Royal pelargonium can be propagated in two ways:

• stem cuttings (throughout the year);
• seeds (the best time for planting is spring).

It should be noted that royal geranium is very popular among gardeners. Plant seeds can be purchased at almost any specialty store. They are quite large. The seeds are planted in a peat mixture in the spring, and within a week the first green shoots appear. As soon as the leaves appear, they need to be transplanted into pots. To avoid damaging the roots, they should be taken with a small lump of earth.

Stem cuttings of royal geranium are recommended to be planted in August-September. They are taken at a certain length, which ranges from 5 to 7 cm, with 2 or 3 leaves. Before planting, it is very good to wilt the plant a little and sprinkle it with crushed wood charcoal. Pots for cuttings should not be too large, as this will cause them to grow weak, including the royal geranium flower itself over time. The propagation of this crop and its excellent growth are ensured by well-prepared soil:

• peat mixture with the addition of a small amount of compost;
• garden soil, where it is recommended to add a little sand.

Wet soil is not at all suitable for planting cuttings. It should only be wet. It is advisable to make drainage in pots from small pebbles. When watering them, you should avoid getting water on the stems and leaves, as they quickly rot.

It is important to know:

• It is not advisable to germinate cuttings of royal pelargonium in water. In most cases, they still do not take root or simply rot.
• During the first 12 months of growth, the royal geranium drives out runs and grows its roots, and pleases the eye with flowers only the next year.

It is recommended to replant royal geranium when the root system has developed to such an extent that it begins to penetrate outward through the drainage hole. New peas are taken only about one and a half centimeters larger in diameter than the old ones. Tight containers ensure better growth and flowering of the crop.

Problems with growing royal pelargonium

Royal geranium is a very capricious plant. When growing as a result of non-compliance with basic care rules, the following problems may occur:

• stretching of internodes, which leads to weakening of the plant, it becomes weak and does not grow;
• waterlogging of the soil or its drying out, and as a result, yellowing of the leaves;
• rust damage to leaves, the formation of aphids or whiteflies on them;
• rotting of the plant under frequent watering.

Lack of flowers in royal geranium. Causes. Ways to solve the problem

Pelargonium is a rather capricious plant that requires careful attention. Therefore, very often many gardeners have the same question about why royal geraniums do not bloom. This may be due to the following reasons:

• improper care of the plant;
• the use of frequent transplants;
• the presence of bacterial and fungal infections.

The second question that concerns many lovers of this plant: “What to do if the royal geranium does not bloom?” The first step is to carefully examine the royal geranium to detect the following problems: the presence of fuzz on the stems, dark spots on the leaves or rot, especially in the root part. Secondly, if the above signs of the disease are obvious, you should thoroughly clean the entire root system of royal pelargonium from the soil. Then it is placed for up to three days in a solution of potassium permanganate (it should be weak). After this, it is necessary to thoroughly clean all affected parts of the plant. It is recommended to remove them.

It is not advisable to use an old pot, and soil is strictly prohibited. New soil should be prepared, which should be steamed very well with boiling water. The old pot must be disinfected. To do this, use a solution of bleach.

Also, the plant does not bloom if the air in the room is too dry. This leads to the falling off of flower stalks and buds.

The soil used for planting cuttings of royal pelargonium must contain a sufficient amount of useful elements (phosphorus, manganese and potassium). But if there is too much nitrogen in the ground, then the plant will quickly gain greenery, but in this case there will be no flowering.

Royal geraniums do not grow and bloom well in large containers, since this does not promote budding, but leads to the growth of greenery. Wide pots are not suitable at all.

Royal geranium: care

Having such a whimsical queen on your windowsill, the first thing you need to do is provide her with normal living conditions. The following rules will tell you how to care for royal geraniums correctly:

• replant the plant every two or three years (depending on the variety);
• provide an optimal temperature range: from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius;
• adhere to moderate watering and air humidity;
• arrange additional lighting when necessary;
• It is contraindicated to place a pot of royal pelargonium in a hot place;
• in pots (it is recommended to use ceramic containers), it is necessary to make a drainage hole;
• protect the plant from wind and rain;
• timely application of fertilizers with useful minerals.

Also, to ensure normal growth and active flowering of royal geranium, so-called rejuvenation should be carried out: cutting off the tops (up to 2 cm). Only a systematic approach to caring for royal pelargonium contributes to the normal development of the flower.

Vida regal is truly an aristocratic flower. During the flowering period, it looks like a very lush and bright ball. At home room conditions This flower is not easy to grow. Care, feeding, pruning and propagation require scrupulousness and precision technology. Experts advise how to do this correctly step by step, based on the photo.

Royal geranium: plant description

Unlike classic varieties of pelargonium, the royal one has a wider bush. Peduncles are located at the level of the shoots, and not above them. In addition, the flowers are larger, reaching 15 cm in diameter (the average is 5-7 cm). In appearance and color they resemble pansies. As they bloom, the flowers tightly cover the bush, forming a bright cushion in the shape of a ball.

Botany classifies geranium as perennial plants. At favorable conditions it can grow and bloom in summer on the veranda or balcony, and not just on the indoor windowsill.

Royal geraniums can have flowers of different shades

The flower varieties determine the color of the buds: from white to deep purple. Moreover, the petals are not only smooth, but also terry, with a wavy or corrugated texture. Unlike other varieties, they do not have the characteristic aroma of pelargonium.

Attention! The peculiarity of royal geranium flowers is that the shade of the upper petals is much brighter and more saturated than the lower ones. This property is used by decorators and flower growers.

Leaves royal pelargonium are the same for all varieties:

• in shape - smoothed, maple-shaped;
• there are jagged edges;
• the coating is rough.

The flower does not grow higher than 50 cm. Its compactness allows it to be placed on a loggia or hung in a flowerpot. In spacious containers, pelargonium feels uncomfortable and may not even bloom.

What conditions do royal pelargonium need for normal development?

The plant is considered capricious and requires increased attention from the owners. The main difficulties of caring for it:

1. Does not tolerate excessive moisture or drying out of the soil.
2. Does not tolerate direct sunlight and does not like drafts. On an open balcony or veranda, choose a place that is not blown by the wind. The optimal placement of the flower is a little sun in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon.
3. Royal geranium needs intense light throughout the year. Without it, it does not grow and does not lay buds. You can use special luminescent sources for indoor plants.
4. To extend flowering time, you need to regularly pick off wilted flowers.

Attention! For this variety it is very important temperature regime. In the winter months, when buds are forming, it needs coolness - a strict thermal range of +12...+15°C. If it is hotter, the plant will not bloom and may even wither.

How to prune royal geranium

This variety of pelargonium needs mandatory pruning twice per season: in spring and autumn. The procedure has a positive effect on the development of geranium:

Royal geraniums need to be pruned twice a year.

• extends flowering period;
• stimulates the growth of shoots and inflorescences;
• improves the absorption of nutrients;
• opens the plant elements to air and light;
• helps geraniums withstand cold weather.

Pruning requires preparation of pelargonium. First, bring her into the room if she was on the balcony. Then proceed like this:

1. If necessary, transplant the geranium into a winter container.
2. Leave the plant for a couple of weeks to acclimatize, otherwise you will put it in a state of stress: the leaves will turn yellow and fall off.
3. Think about what shape you are going to give the bush. Evaluate what and how you will cut.
4. Remove dry and yellow leaves. It is better to get rid of fading greenery.
5. Prepare for the procedure. To work, use scissors, a sharp knife or pruning shears. The instrument must be sterilized in any way. Hands should be washed with soap.
6. Start pruning.

In general, the procedure is performed according to the same algorithm. While working, keep the following points in mind:

• correct removal of shoots - above leaf nodules;
• be sure to cut off branches that grow towards the center of the bush or cross each other;
• It is better to remove the ends of the branches after 4-5 buds - this will free up space for young peduncles;

Royal geraniums can be placed on the balcony in summer

• treat the cut areas with crushed charcoal, ground cinnamon or alcohol - this will heal faster;
• The process of healing and normalization of plant life will be accelerated by a small portion of nitrogen fertilizer.

Advice. To form a rounded plant shape, pinch the tips of the shoots. This is done with bare hands - just tear off the desired process.

Propagation of royal geranium

Florists recommend propagating flowers by cuttings at home. In autumn or spring, a cutting of no more than 10 cm in length is cut from an adult plant with a sharp knife (the cut is made at an angle of 45°). Then two leaves are cut off at the bottom of the branch and placed in water for 7-10 days. During this time, roots will appear on the cuttings. Now it can be rooted in a small pot with a light substrate. The soil is prepared by mixing ordinary soil with sand in a 1:1 ratio.

Advice. The mixture should be disinfected for 2 days before planting.

The plant should remain in a temporary pot for 2 months. At this time, it is important not to miss the period when the cutting begins to grow. At this point, shorten the top of the sprout by 1 cm to give free rein to the side shoots. Water young geraniums so that the soil does not dry out, but the water does not stagnate. After two months, the plant will be ready for transplanting into a permanent container.

Royal geranium, royal pelargonium, pelargonium grandiflora - beautiful plant from South America, brought to Europe in the 17th century.
The royal pelargonium flower is loved for beautiful flowers, but it is difficult to care for, unlike fragrant and zonal geraniums.

Lovers who decide to plant this flower at home will enjoy it all summer and spring. beautiful flowering geraniums on the balcony or in the apartment.

Pelargonium flowers are a small plant, about 60 cm in height. It can be placed on a windowsill or hung in a flowerpot. Royal pelargonium is often planted in a tray on the balcony in summer. Its stems are herbaceous and erect. The foliage is emerald in color and completely covers the bush. The leaves have a rough surface with fluff.

Royal geraniums are prized most for their blooms. Pelargonium is large-flowered, the inflorescences are very large and are formed at the top of the stem.

The average size of the inflorescences is 15 cm. If properly cared for, their diameter can reach 25 cm. The flowers are from 5 to 10 cm long, and their size is usually proportional to the size of the inflorescences.

The diameter of the flower is about seven centimeters. The upper petals in the bud overlap the lower ones, which becomes like a fan. The color and shape are very diverse: there are white, lilac and violet varieties. There is no shade of red that royal geranium flowers are not painted in. Its buds come with contrasting inclusions or are of the same type. They can be terry and simple in shape, with wavy, smooth or corrugated edges. The flowers look great in the photographs.

Geranium blooms for about 3 months if it has proper care and good feeding. The flowering period is much shorter than that of other species. It can be extended by removing dried buds, adding, and some gardeners also graft royal geranium onto other species. During flowering there is almost no smell, and many consider this a great advantage, because rich aroma Not everyone likes flowers.

Gallery: royal pelargonium (25 photos)

Home care

Caring for royal geraniums at home is quite difficult. If the rules of care are violated, it may stop blooming. Pelargonium does not grow well in the shade, but it also does not like direct sun, because the leaves can get burned. Overwatering or underwatering has a detrimental effect on flowers. Geraniums can be affected by pests and diseases. Basic rules of care required by Royal Pelargonium at home:

• Light. Royal geranium loves light, then it blooms profusely and for a long time. It can be placed on a southern windowsill, but care must be taken that direct rays do not burn the leaves. In winter, the flower needs to be additionally illuminated, because due to lack of light the stems will become very elongated.
• Temperature. In summer, the room temperature should not exceed 25 degrees. Geraniums need a period of rest in winter; this is possible only at 15 degrees. Plants will not bloom if this period is not observed. If there is a draft or overheating, the same thing can happen.
• Watering. Geranium loves moisture very much, so it needs to be watered abundantly. The layer of soil on top should dry out between two waterings. Some people advise pouring water into a tray rather than into a pot. For watering, use boiled water.
• Humidity. Spray geraniums only if the room is very dry. She is afraid of water on flowers and leaves.
• Fertilizer. Fertilize in summer and spring during the flowering period. Use fertilizers high in phosphorus and potassium to extend flowering for several weeks. Fertilizer should be applied once every 14 days.
• The soil. Royal pelargonium loves neutral soil or with a weak alkali reaction. Add ash to the pot to reduce acidity. Ensure proper drainage to prevent stagnation of water.

If you provide proper care for pelargonium at home, it will bloom for several months every year. Despite the difficulties, many plant owners are very happy, because all the beauty of geranium flowers is worth the effort to grow this species.

Royal geraniums love propagation by cuttings. Cuttings of royal pelargonium is the most popular and easiest way. Remember that rooting in water is most often unsuccessful; the cuttings rot and do not take root, so immediately plant them in the ground. Usually the procedure is carried out from mid-August or early September, but not later. A branch up to 10 cm long is cut from the top.

The cutting must have 2-3 nodes. After cutting, leave it for a few hours to dry and then plant it in soil with good drainage.

To protect against diseases, fry the soil in the oven or treat it with a solution of potassium permanganate. After this treatment, the cuttings are planted in the ground no earlier than two days later, so prepare the soil in advance. When rooting is complete, after a few weeks, plant the plant in its permanent pot. To speed up the process, carefully detach the leaves from the branch so that all the plant’s energy goes into the formation of roots.

Propagating plants by seeds is a very labor-intensive process, but this method produces hardy plants with a long flowering period. The seeds are bought in the store - they are oblong and small. They are planted in a deep container.

For soil, it is better to take a mixture of sand and peat with the addition of ash. Planting takes place in mid-February. The seeds are planted half a centimeter into the ground. A month later the first shoots appear. When two leaves are already visible, the sprouts dive into a small pot.

Pruning and grafting

In winter, pelargonium stretches out because it does not have enough light. The plant requires pruning before the flowering season. It is held at the end of February. Carefully cut off the tops of the branches to form a beautiful crown. Use them for reproduction. Do not prune radically, as this may cause the plant to stop blooming. Royal pelargonium should be replanted infrequently, once every 3 years. Remember, it blooms only in a cramped pot; one that is too spacious will not suit it.

Pelargonium can be made to bloom longer by grafting onto other species. Best suited for this scented geranium. To graft, take twigs with three or two leaves, make a cut about a centimeter long. Make exactly the same cut on the second plant, combine them and tie them with woolen thread. Do all this in practically sterile, clean conditions, otherwise the vaccine will not take root.

Difficulties in growing

When growing royal geraniums, various difficulties may arise:

• The plant's leaves sometimes turn yellow. If this happens at the tips, then most likely the flower lacks moisture. If the leaves rot or wither, the cause may be overwatering.
• When the soil is moistened abundantly, water pads will appear on the leaves.
• When cold, the leaves may turn reddish. In this case, place the flower further from the window.
• If there is not enough light, the leaves will fall off.

Plants are susceptible to disease. If the flower's stem has turned black, it will no longer be possible to save it. Throw away such a plant along with the soil, and treat the window sill and pot with bleach. Gray fluff may appear on the leaves due to excess moisture; it is caused by a fungus. Urgently remove this gray mold and adjust watering. The most common pests that attack geranium are boll weevils and whiteflies. Carefully collect the insects or kill them with insecticides.

Many people are interested in why royal pelargonium does not bloom. The reason for this may be invisible fungal infections. Carefully inspect the stems, leaves and root zone. Remove diseased parts of the plant and reduce watering.

If the flowers fall off too quickly, this may be due to an excess of nitrogen in the soil or dry air in the room. Problems can also arise when the shoulder straps become very long, at which point the flower stalks do not develop. Low temperatures in winter and spring can also prevent flowering, as can overheating in summer. Frequent replanting is also harmful to the plant.

Attention, TODAY only!

Among the geraniums there are absolutely unpretentious plants, which are not demanding on growing conditions and do not create problems even for a novice gardener in the process of growing them. Royal geranium is clearly not from this “opera”. This indoor flower requires constant attention and specific care. In the absence of these conditions, it stubbornly does not bloom and does not please your eye with lush and uniquely beautiful buds.

The thing is that royal pelargonium is a native of the hot and humid climate of South America. She feels great in conditions high humidity air and in the absence of direct sunlight. Of particular importance is the regular and quantitative characteristics of watering. It should be moderate but constant. IN summer time The plant should be watered early in the morning (before 10 o’clock) and late in the evening (after sunset). In winter, watering is limited to once a day. In this case, no more than 50 ml of water per 1 day is used for single watering. mature plant. The earthen ball should be wet, but not wet. Otherwise there is root rot, and bacterial infections occur, which prevent abundant flowering and development of the stem part.

Photo of royal geranium and description

In the proposed photos, royal geranium is presented in various variations of varieties and selections. This plant is a favorite among flower growers from all over the world. Therefore, new varieties with original petal colors are constantly appearing. Terry royal pelargoniums are more common. They have richly colored petals and a wide spherical cluster of peduncles.

In the photo of royal pelargonium you can see the Pink Mikado variety. It is distinguished by its compact bush size, rich dark green leaves and slightly pubescent stems. The color of the petals ranges from pastel pink to rich salmon. In the center of each petal there is a dark oval spot, which indicates royal pelargonium.

The next photo shows Aristo Schoko, a variety of royal geranium that has a rich red petal color. In the center of the cervical part of each petal there is a bright oval-shaped spot of dark red color.

If you want an exotic look, then look at the photo of the royal geranium variety Barkarole. This is a bright variegated color with a real riot of colors. The edge of each petal, which has a silvery tint, gives the variety sophistication and exoticism. The edging of the buds combined with bright yellow, orange, white and pink petals makes the royal geranium flower attractive appearance. Widely used to create harmonious interior designs in apartments, country houses and offices.

For lovers of classic room design options, there is the Imperial variety. In the photo you can see compact plants with delicate beige petals, which are decorated with rich pink spots in the center.

Royal pelargonium was first brought to Europe at the end of the eighteenth century. Since then, selection work has been going on endlessly, as a result of which more and more new hybrid forms this plant. Therefore, the varieties of royal geranium listed above are far from full list. These are simply the most popular and sought after varieties.

A general description of royal geranium pelargonium includes information about the average height of an adult plant. In most cases, at home, royal pelargonium reaches a height of 60 - 80 cm. More tall plant It is not advisable to grow, since the buds are located only on the apical growing points. At a height of 1 meter decorative properties indoor flower are completely lost. However, in a garden, you can grow a one and a half meter bush as an experiment. But it is better to use it as a background for low-growing flowering plants.

The special chic of royal pelargonium, judging by the description and cultivation practice, is the inflorescence of buds. They can reach a width of up to 25 cm. But this is with proper care at home. On average, these are standard inflorescences with a diameter of up to 15 cm. The length of the peduncle can reach up to 10 cm. The more mineral fertilizers of the potassium and phosphorus group are added during the preparation for flowering, the larger the diameter of the inflorescence and the shorter the length of the peduncle.

A distinctive characteristic is the presence of a dark, richly colored oval spot in the center of each petal. In terms of their structure, royal pelargonium flowers can be either simple or double. The shape of the petals can be with a slight wave-like structure or flat concave. There are forms of corrugated flowers of royal geranium. The leaves are serrated, oval or rounded. The leaf has a rough surface with slight pubescence. The color of the foliage depends on the condition of the plant. A healthy indoor flower has rich emerald foliage that tightly covers the central trunk and all shoots.

Shades of buds can include dazzling white, red, pink, purple, yellow, and orange. The flowering period is not long and lasts a maximum of 6 months. The indoor flower royal geranium begins to bloom in early March.

Caring for royal geraniums

Timely and proper care of royal geraniums allows you to form a regular and strong bush during the first year of life, which in the second year of its life will give you lush, bright buds.

Caring for royal pelargonium begins from the moment you decide to keep this plant in your home. You need to choose the right one appropriate place for landing. Royal geranium does not bring drafts, dry air or direct sunlight. Also the plant will not like it heat air and insufficient watering. However, overmoistening the earthen clod will not do anything good.

As you understand, the optimal place for growing is a north or east window, under which there is no battery central heating and which is not used to ventilate the room during the cold season. In spring, summer and autumn periods Royal geranium feels great in a glassed-in loggia. However, if there is a threat of the first frost, you should remove the plant to the room.

In the spring-summer period, an ambient temperature of up to 25 degrees Celsius is suitable for the growth of geranium. In autumn and winter, you should not allow temperatures to rise above 20 degrees Celsius.

To organize proper care of royal geraniums at home, planting is important. For growing, choose ceramic pots. They save optimal temperature earthen coma and ensure uniform air distribution. There must be a drain hole to remove excess moisture. Pour expanded clay or any other drainage into the bottom of the pot. Next, fill the container with turf soil with a high organic content. You can add 1 tablespoon at once nitrogen fertilizers to ensure sufficient nutrition for the plant during the period of green mass growth. After planting, keep the royal pelargonium for 2 weeks in a shaded place and water it 2 times a day.

Royal geraniums should be replanted no more than once every 3 years. It is best to refrain from this event. This indoor flower is extremely painful to transplant and may even die.

Also, caring for royal geraniums includes timely application of fertilizing. In spring and summer it is necessary to apply mineral fertilizers 1 time per week. Potassium and phosphorus should predominate. In autumn and winter periods add nitrogen and organic fertilizers 1 time per month.

Be sure to shape the plant by pinching. The first pruning is carried out at the moment when the plant reaches a stem height of 15 cm. All tops are cut off by 2 cm. The second pinch is needed at the moment when the side shoots reach a length of 5 cm. Trim all their tops by 1 cm. After this, you will get a spherical bush, which, with proper care of the royal geranium, will give abundant flowering in the second year.

Propagation by cuttings of royal geranium

At home, it is advisable to propagate royal geraniums by cuttings. Although propagation by seeds is not excluded. In this case, sowing is carried out in the first half of February in structured loose soil to a depth of 0.5 cm. Flooring as necessary. Picking in the phase when the seedlings have 2 true leaves.

Propagation by cuttings of royal pelargonium is available to every gardener if there is an adult plant. In spring or autumn, cuttings up to 10 cm long are cut. For this, it is better to use a sharp knife. Cutting should be done at an angle of 45 degrees. Immediately after cutting, 2 leaves are removed from below and the cuttings are placed in water room temperature for 7 - 10 days until the roots appear.

After this, the cuttings are rooted in light structured soil in small diameter containers. Transfer to permanent place occurs after 2 months. To improve the rooting process, it is important to prepare the soil mixture. Add the same amount of construction or river sand to any soil. After mixing, pour boiling water over the entire soil. A strong solution of manganese is also suitable for disinfection. But after watering, plants can be planted in 48 hours.

When rooting has passed, growth of the top begins. Be sure to trim it to 1 cm. This will stimulate the growth of side shoots.

Why doesn't the royal geranium bloom?

Many novice gardeners wonder why royal geraniums do not bloom. This may be a consequence of improper care, frequent transplants and the presence of bacterial and fungal infections. First of all, carefully inspect the plant for dark spots on the leaves, fuzz on the stems and rot in the root part. If signs of disease are detected, the entire root system should be cleared of soil, rinsed under running water and place for 2 - 3 days in a weak solution of potassium permanganate. Clean or remove all affected parts of the plant.

Prepare fresh soil. If the same pot is to be used, disinfect it with a bleach solution. Before replanting, also disinfect the soil with boiling water. Replant the plant and carefully monitor the appearance of new signs of disease.

Also, royal geranium does not bloom if improper care and growth conditions are provided. For example, excessive dry air leads to the systematic falling off of buds and flower stalks. Their formation occurs only if the soil contains sufficient quantities of phosphorus, potassium and manganese. If nitrogen is applied in excess, green mass quickly increases and there is no flowering.

Another option why royal geranium pelargonium does not bloom is that the container in which the plant grows is too large. For this indoor flower, tall, but not wide, pots are more suitable. This ensures long-lasting abundant flowering. A large pot leads to the growth of green mass and lack of budding.