Red, pink or white - hanging geraniums are the perfect plant for a balcony that blooms all summer long. The flowers are perfect for this purpose due to their rich colors and long flowering period, but they also require quite a lot of maintenance. In the following article you will learn how you can enjoy your hanging geraniums for as long as possible.

Hanging geraniums are very thirsty plants

Water hanging geraniums properly

Hanging geraniums are quite divided when it comes to their water requirements: Originally, the popular summer flowers come from the dry and hot climate of Southeast Africa and are therefore quite used to longer dry periods. Brief dry phases do not harm the plants, and they must not be exposed to excessive moisture. On the other hand, hanging geraniums are also quite thirsty plants that need to be well watered, especially on hot and dry days. In addition to high humidity, you should also avoid waterlogging or constantly wet substrate.

Fertilize hanging geraniums regularly

In addition, hanging geraniums are extremely heavy feeders and should therefore be fertilized regularly. A special fertilizer for geraniums is suitable for this, although conventional fertilizer for flowering plants (€10.47) serves the same purpose. The best way to fertilize is when watering. Make sure the substrate is moist, otherwise the roots could be damaged.

The right time to cut the hanging geraniums

Many hanging geranium varieties are self-cleaning, i. H. faded shoots do not have to be trimmed. With other hanging geraniums, however, this measure makes a lot of sense to stimulate the formation of new flowers. Otherwise, a strong pruning takes place before storing in the winter quarters and another - to remove water shoots - in early spring.

Diseases of hanging geraniums

Hanging geraniums are prone to certain diseases, especially in humid weather or when watered too often. Mildew, gray mold, pelargonium rust or bacterial wilt are the most common. As soon as you notice the first signs of these plant diseases, which are often caused by fungi or bacteria, you should act as quickly as possible - infested areas should be cut off and the infested plants placed in a drier place.

Pests in hanging geraniums

Whiteflies, thrips and aphids feel particularly at home on hanging geraniums. If the infestation is noticed in time, you can contain it with a proven household remedy: Treat the affected leaves and shoots with a mixture of 500 ml water, a good dash of washing-up liquid (if possible with a citrus scent) and two tablespoons of cooking oil.

Overwinter hanging geraniums properly

Hanging geraniums should never overwinter outdoors. The plants are not hardy, but can easily survive the cold season in a cool and dark cellar - cut back heavily and without soil.

tips

Geraniums should only be watered from below so that no water gets on the leaves.

Category:

Indoor plants