The More, The Merrier
These plants have been collected and shared since Victorian times. One reason is their easy rooting habits. After pruning
scented geraniums, save a few cuttings to propagate. Fill pots no larger than 3 inches in diameter with soil. "For rooting,
I like to use potting mix with a lot of sphagnum peat moss," Bobbie says. "I mix it half and half withperlite to increase
air circulation around the new roots."
Clip a stem, 3 to 4 inches from the tip, right above a leaf. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end into rooting hormone, and push the stem securely into the soil. Place the new plant in bright light, and keep the potting medium moist until the cutting has established roots.
Come On In
When summer ends and frost is imminent, bring your favorite scented geraniums indoors. "Place them in a cool room with high
light, and they'll thrive beautifully," says Bobbie. Water requirements remain the same, with the geranium needing moist soil.
Indoors, the plant may dry more slowly, so adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Scented geraniums may be the ultimate plant for all seasons. With dainty flowers and fragrant, lovely leaves, these sturdy plants grace the garden in summer, then move willingly indoors for winter. A word of caution--once you have one, you'll be hooked on all the perfumed possibilities.
"Scented Geraniums" is from the June 2001 issue of Southern Living.
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