How to Care for Pelargonium graveolens
As a star plant with both ornamental value and mosquito-repelling properties, Pelargonium graveolens has captured the hearts of countless gardening enthusiasts with its unique lemon scent. To achieve explosive growth for this plant that comes with its own fragrance, it is necessary to master all the care techniques from substrate mixing to environmental control. This article will unlock the care code for Pelargonium graveolens through six core dimensions.
Four Basic Care Elements
Scientific Soil Mixing Ensures Root Vigor
Pelargonium graveolens roots are highly sensitive to waterlogging. It is recommended to use the golden ratio: 40% decomposed leaf soil + 30% perlite + 20% coconut bran + 10% bone meal. Adding pine bark and other granular materials during potting in spring each year can effectively prevent soil compaction. Special reminder: the substrate pH should be controlled between 6.0-6.5, and the acidity or alkalinity can be adjusted by adding sulfur powder.
Smart Light Control Promotes Energy Conversion
In spring and autumn, ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, and use double-layer shading nets in summer to filter strong light. When caring for the plant indoors in winter, it is recommended to use full-spectrum grow lights for 4 hours daily, keeping the lights 50cm away from the plant.
Precise Irrigation System
Use the "finger test": Insert the index finger into the soil 2 joints deep, and if there is no sticky sensation at the fingertip, it is time to water. During the high summer temperatures,配合 the immersion pot method, and water with a bamboo vinegar solution (1000 times dilution) monthly to effectively prevent root rot disease.
Nutrition Supply Strategy
In the growing season (March-October), apply seaweed fertilizer (N-P-K=3-3-3) every 15 days, and switch to potassium dihydrogen phosphate foliar fertilizer during the budding stage. Apply a mature sheep manure fertilizer before winter dormancy to enhance the plant's cold resistance.
Advanced Management Double Core
Shaping and Pruning Art
Perform three key prunings each year: a heavy cut in early spring to retain 3-5 main branches, pinching in summer to control excessive growth, and thinning dense branches in autumn. Immediately apply wood ash to the wounds after pruning to accelerate healing and prevent pathogen invasion.
Three-dimensional Ventilation Solution
For indoor care, build an air circulation system and it is recommended to install a circulating fan running for 4 hours daily. For outdoor plants, use a 30cm high raised flower stand, and during the plum rain season, combine with preventive spraying of carbendazim to reduce the incidence of diseases by 85%.
Through the above systematic care measures, your Pelargonium graveolens will form a full and lush plant shape within 3 months. Remember to rotate the pot regularly to ensure even light exposure, and with the stimulation of temperature difference (day-night temperature difference of 8-10℃), it can induce more flower bud differentiation, creating a fragrant and beautiful balcony landscape.