Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’: A Vibrant and Hardy Perennial for Your Garden
Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’, also known as the silver-leaved geranium or Storkbill ‘Flower of Spring’, is a charming and resilient perennial that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. This cultivar is celebrated for its compact, bushy growth habit, variegated foliage, and striking scarlet flowers. First selected in the early 1800s, it remains a popular choice among gardeners for its decorative appeal and ease of care.
Botanical Background
Scientific Name: Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’
Common Names: Geranium ‘Flower of Spring’, Silver-leaved Geranium, Storkbills ‘Flower of Spring’
Family: Geraniaceae
Hybridizer: Turner, pre-1860
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Description
Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’ is a compact and bushy plant that typically grows up to 50 cm in height and spread. The plant features rounded leaves with distinctive white margins, creating a striking contrast with its bright red, single flowers. The variegated foliage adds an extra layer of visual interest, making it a focal point in any garden setting.
Height: 45-50 cm
Spread: 45-50 cm
Flower Color: Scarlet Red
Leaf Color: Green with White Margins
Foliage Type: Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature: 15 – 35°C
Ornamental Features
Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’ is renowned for its vibrant and abundant flowers, which bloom profusely throughout the hot summer months. The bright red flowers contrast beautifully with the plant’s variegated foliage, adding a splash of color to any garden. The compact habit of this plant makes it perfect for borders, containers, and beds.
Cultivation and Care of Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’:
Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’ is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.
Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It’s best to avoid hot, direct sunlight, which may cause leaf burn.
Soil Requirements: Thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. It can tolerate various soil types but performs best in moist, well-drained conditions. Adding sand and grit to the compost can improve drainage.
Watering: Pelargoniums prefer a fairly dry compost. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent soggy roots, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 10-14 days in spring. Once flowers start to form, switch to a high-potassium fertilizer, such as tomato feed, and continue feeding fortnightly throughout the summer.
Pruning: To keep the plant compact and bushy, prune hard at least once a year. Regular pruning helps maintain a pleasing shape and encourages more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers will also promote continuous blooming and prevent disease.
Overwintering: Grow small plants from cuttings in late summer or cut back old plants by one-third and lift for storage in a frost-free place. Repot in spring when growth resumes.
Propagation of Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’:
Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’ can be easily propagated by softwood cuttings.
By Cuttings:
- Take softwood cuttings in summer or spring.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a healthy stem just below a leaf node.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone.
- Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of compost and sand.
- Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.
Pests and Diseases
Pests: May be susceptible to vine weevil, leafhoppers, caterpillars, thrips, fungus gnats, and aphids. Regular inspection and appropriate pest control measures are recommended.
Diseases: Can be affected by foot and root rots in wet soils, grey molds, pelargonium rust, and viruses. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.
Suggested Planting Locations
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal gardens
- Cottage and informal gardens
- Patios and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
Additional Care Tips
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain plant health.
- Pruning: Hard prune at least once a year to keep the plant compact and bushy.
- Feeding: Follow a regular feeding schedule to ensure robust growth and flowering.
- Pet Safety: Pelargoniums contain essential oils that are mildly toxic to pets. Prevent cats from chewing on the plants to avoid symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle weakness.
Conclusion
Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’ is a delightful and resilient addition to any garden. Its vibrant scarlet flowers and variegated foliage bring color and charm to various garden settings. Easy to grow and maintain, this perennial is perfect for borders, containers, and beds, making it a versatile and valuable plant for both novice and experienced gardeners. With proper care and attention, Pelargonium ‘Flower of Spring’ will continue to thrive and beautify your garden for many years.
