Geranium (Pelargonium crispum) pel-ar-GO-nee-um KRIS-pum Genus:  Pelargonium This plant is a lemon-scented, shrubby, upright pelargonium with pale pink flowers and crinkled leaves. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Works quite well for topiary because it produces dense heads of foliage. Crispum means curled or wavy and describes the edges of these plants’ small, crinkled, lemony leaves. Care:  Scented geraniums will not tolerate poor drainage. In a container, ensure drainage and adequate moisture by using a good potting mix that contains ingredients like peat moss, pasteurized compost, and perlite. Use a timed-released fertilizer in the soil or an all-purpose liquid fertilizer when you water. Pelargoniums like magnesium, and a teaspoon of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) added to each gallon of fertilizer solution every few waterings will adequately supply this nutrient. As with plants in the ground, place containers in the full sun. When temperatures get above 90°F pelargoniums appreciate some afternoon shade Bring potted plants indoors before outdoor temperatures drop below 45°F, to avoid shocking them. Place them in a south-facing windowsill that gets at least four hours of direct sunlight a day. Propagation:  Sow seed at 70°F in late winter or early spring, or take softwood cuttings in spring, late summer, or early fall. Problems:  Thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, caterpillars, gray mold, mildew, black leg, flower break virus, Xanthomonas blight, and edema are common problems.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Fragrant Foliage, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Pink Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant, Suitable as Annual, Topiary Style Cottage Garden, Herb Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials