Comprehensive Care Guide for Geraniums and Other Flowering Plants
Taking proper care of your geraniums, especially after repotting, is essential for maintaining their health and encouraging continuous blooming. If you notice that your plants are starting to wilt or their leaves are turning yellow, don’t worry! This can be a natural response to environmental changes, such as repotting or shifts in temperature.
Repotting and Soil Change
When repotting geraniums, choosing the right soil is crucial for their growth. A well-draining, nutrient-rich soil will ensure that the roots develop properly. After repotting, it is normal for some leaves to yellow as the plant adjusts to its new environment, particularly in cooler climates like Kazakhstan. Ensuring proper placement and watering techniques will help your geraniums thrive.
Essential Care for Special Varieties of Geraniums
If you have special or hybrid varieties, their care routine is not much different from regular geraniums. However, one key aspect to focus on is protecting them from extreme heat during summer. Keeping them in a slightly shaded area can prevent heat stress and prolong their blooming period.
A Powerful Nutrient Boost: Walnut Shell Infusion
One of the best homemade fertilizers for geraniums is a walnut shell infusion, which is rich in iodine and beneficial minerals. To prepare this nutrient-rich solution:
- Take three large walnut shells (or five smaller ones) and crush them slightly.
- Boil 1 liter of water and add the walnut shells.
- Let it simmer for two minutes before removing it from heat.
- Cover the pot and allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Once cooled, strain the liquid and use it to water your plants.
To enhance the effectiveness of this fertilizer, you can mix it with boiled eggshell water. Eggshells contain high levels of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong roots and vibrant flowers.
To prepare eggshell water:
- Boil one egg and save the water after it has cooled.
- Mix the boiled eggshell water with the walnut infusion.
- Stir well and pour onto the plant’s moist soil (never apply fertilizers to completely dry soil).
How to Apply Walnut and Eggshell Infusion
When watering, pour the mixture slowly around the plant’s base. If the pot is large, you can use up to two cups per plant. For smaller pots, one cup will be sufficient.
Additional Tips for Strong and Healthy Growth
- Leaf Spraying: Pour the remaining nutrient mix into a spray bottle and mist your plant’s leaves. This method helps prevent fungal diseases and keeps the leaves vibrant and pest-free.
- Remove Yellowing Leaves: Always prune any discolored or dead leaves to prevent nutrient loss and encourage new growth.
- Alternate Watering Routine: After applying a nutrient-rich solution, wait 15-20 days before fertilizing again. During this period, water your plants with plain water 2-3 times to prevent root fatigue.
Preventing and Treating Common Issues
- Leaf Yellowing: If you notice excessive yellowing, check your watering habits. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can stress the plant.
- Pest Control: A natural way to deter pests is by adding dried ginger powder or clove powder to the soil. Their strong scent repels insects like ants and fungus gnats.
- Enhancing Blooming: Every 15-20 days, mix grated potato with water and use it to hydrate the soil. The natural starch and phosphorus in potatoes boost flower production.
By following these simple yet effective care techniques, your geraniums and other flowering plants will remain healthy, vibrant, and full of blossoms throughout the growing season.
Conclusion
Caring for geraniums and other houseplants requires attention to soil quality, watering habits, and proper fertilization. Using natural ingredients like walnut shells, eggshells, and potato water ensures that your plants receive the essential nutrients they need. With regular maintenance, your flowers will not only survive but thrive, bringing beauty to your home or garden.
Stay tuned for more plant care tips, and remember—healthy plants make for a happy gardener! Until next time, happy planting!
