Geranium
Geranium: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
The geranium described here refers to Pelargonium, the familiar balcony and bedding plants often sold under this common name. They belong to the Geraniaceae family but form a different genus from Geranium, commonly called hardy cranesbills. Garden pelargoniums are mainly frost-sensitive perennials or small shrubs, frequently used as seasonal plants. Many of their ancestors come from southern Africa. Their botanical perennial character and their seasonal garden use describe different aspects of the same plants.Growth habit varies between groups. Zonal pelargoniums form upright, branching clumps, while ivy-leaved forms have flexible trailing stems. Leaves may be rounded, lobed or ivy-shaped, with wavy or toothed edges. In many zonal forms, a darker band creates a ring on the leaf blade. Other selections have variegated, purple or finely cut foliage. Leaf outline and markings therefore contribute substantially to the plant’s appearance, even when few flowers are open.The flowers gather in clusters held above the…
