Pelargoniums in March: Essential Tips for Growing Healthy Plants | Growing Crazy

There are lots of exciting things happening through March, the days are getting longer, the temperatures are starting to warm up and Gardeners World is back on the TV!!  

If you are growing pelargoniums in the UK in March, there are a few important tasks you need to complete to ensure that your plants thrive.

1. Prune your pelargoniums: To encourage bushier growth and promote healthy blooming, it's important to prune your pelargoniums in March. Cut back any spindly or leggy stems, being careful not to damage the new growth, to establish a shape for you plant to grow.
   
   
2. Re-pot your plants: If your pelargoniums have become root-bound, or have outgrown their pots, it's time to re-pot them into a larger container. Make sure you use a good quality, well-draining potting mix and water your plants thoroughly after re-potting.
   
   
3. Check for pests and diseases: March is a good time to inspect your pelargoniums for any signs of pests or diseases. Keep an eye out for aphids, scale insects, and whitefly, which can all damage your plants. If you do notice any signs of disease, it's important to treat it promptly to prevent it from spreading to other plants. We try to be as natural as possible using SB Invigorator to spray the plants to discourage pests and, when it is warm enough, use natural pest controls.
   
   
4. Feed your plants: Pelargoniums benefit from regular feeding, especially during the growing season. Start to feed your plants with a good quality fertiliser, we recommend a good soluble tomato feed to support growth and for flowers.
   
   
5. Start hardening off your plants: If you have been growing your pelargoniums indoors over winter, it's time to start hardening them off. Gradually acclimate your plants to the outdoor environment by placing them in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, increasing the amount of time they spend outside as the weather improves. BE CAREFUL – be aware of temperatures as we are not over the frosts as yet, make sure you bring them back into protection should temperatures fall.
   
6. Buy more plants! Now is the time to increase your plant collection for a great display with some bright and unusual displays through the summer months. Here are a few of the varieties we are growing in our own gardens this summer:

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By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pelargoniums are healthy and robust, and are ready to burst into bloom as the weather warms up. Happy gardening!