Let’s talk about….
Geranium’s, they are lovely and OK…but I am in love with the Cranesbill that grows wild and talks to me! shhhh….you must listen very carefully.
Despite their common name, scented geraniums are unrelated to the true geranium (Geranium maculatum), or cranesbill, whose lovely rose pink flowers are often found growing wild in temperate woodlands. They are, rather, members of the Pelargonium genus, which includes the beloved garden geranium that’s cultivated in window boxes and ornamental gardens throughout the country. Semi-woody and tender, these perennials are native to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa and, if left outdoors, rarely survive the rigorous winters typical of most of the United States.
The leaf texture of the SG can be smooth, sticky or velvety. The back of the leaf is what releases the scent for which each geranium is named.
They are well suited for growing in container’s but do very well in the ground also. They thrive in sunny locations and need evenly moist soil, and they do much better from rooted cuttings than from seed.
It’s a good idea to water several hours before you plan to take cuttings.
While there are well over 100 varieties of the SG , for culinary use the rose, lemon and mint are most in demand.
They do attract some pest and careful attention is required if you wish to have healthy and thriving plants. Caterpillar’s, aphids, mealybugs, and white flies are just a few of the things you may find having lunch.
You can easily control the caterpillars by lifting off and placing some-place else.
I always grow an extra small patch of parsley for them to feed on, …..some will turn into beautiful butterflies you know, so please never kill them.
The other pest you can wash away with diluted alcohol and a Q-tip.
A good insecticidal soap will work also.
If you need a good book about these lovely plants:
“Knowing, Growing and Enjoying Scented Geraniums” (by) Jim Becker and Faye
Brawner.
Happy Gardening…..it’s time!