Its blossoms are pleasing to the eye and its citrus-like, minty-scented leaves have repelled many a mosquito. It can even be used in the kitchen. In short: there are many reasons to multiply the scented geranium.
The easiest way to propagate scented geraniums is through cuttings
The simplest method: take cuttings
Regardless of the variety, scented geraniums are best propagated from cuttings. This method is considered proven. The best period for this has come between July and August. The summer provides the optimal temperatures for rooting the cuttings.
How to proceed:
- Cut half-ripe head cuttings with a sharp knife below a leaf node
- should be about 10 cm long
- remove lower leaves
- 4 sheets stick (at the top part)
- prepare a pot with potting soil
Now the cutting is put into the ground. Be careful not to cover the leaves with soil. Now the soil is watered and kept moist for the next few weeks. Rooting takes about 6 weeks in a bright place with a temperature between 20 and 22 °C.
Tips from experts
When propagating cuttings, you should not use fresh shoots. These rot quickly. It is also advisable to use shoots that do not have flowers. A place in the greenhouse is ideal for rooting. After the cutting is rooted, it should remain indoors in the pot until spring.
Sowing: Only for patient plant lovers
The seeds can be sown both in pots and in a tray. They are light germs, which should only be sieved very thinly with soil or sand. After sowing, the substrate is kept moist. At a temperature of 20 °C, the seeds will germinate after 10 to 20 days. When you can see the four leaves per plant, it's time to separate them.
The young plants of the scented pelargonium should slowly be accustomed to the outdoor climate. If the location is right and the substrate is perfect, the scented geranium needs little care. Do not forget: From October this plant must be overwintered.
tips and tricks
Before inserting into the ground, the cutting should lie around for a short time. After a short time, the cuts are closed so that no bacteria can penetrate from the outside when rooting takes place.