The pansy geraniums, Also known as Pelargonium grandiflorum or royal geraniums, are authentic jewels on balconies, terraces and gardens, famous for their large, showy flowers and its ability to beautify any corner during spring and summer. To enjoy its exuberance season after season, it is essential to know and properly apply the pruning, which directly influences your health, longevity and flowering.
Although pruning geraniums may seem like a simple task, There are numerous nuances to take into account depending on the climate, variety and condition of the plant. Mastering the right techniques and timing not only allows you to obtain more compact and flowering plants, but also helps combatr pests and diseases, already extend the life cycle of the specimens.
Main characteristics of the pansy geranium
El pansy geranium, identified by its scientific name Pelargonium grandiflorum, is originally from South Africa and belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It has a more upright appearance, reaching a height of between 30 and 50 centimeters tall, and is distinguished by its large trumpet-shaped flowers, with a color palette ranging from white to dark purple, including reds, pinks, and salmon.
It stands out not only for its ornamental value, but also because it adapts to both exterior and interior, as long as it receives the daylight. It is important to provide at least four hours of direct sunlight daily and protect it from wind and torrential rains.
The selection of healthy specimens in the nursery is essential for enjoy a long flowering period: It is recommended to choose plants with flowers that are not yet fully open and green leaves without yellowing or wilting.
Why is it important to prune pansy geraniums?
Regular pruning It is one of the most recommended practices to maintain the pansy geranium compact, leafy and healthyThanks to it, we achieve:
- Rejuvenate the plant: Trimming old or woody branches encourages the emergence of new, more vigorous shoots and stems.
- Stimulate flowering: remove withered flowers and untidy branches concentrates energy at the growth points and maximize floral production for the following year.
- Prevent diseases: remove leaves and affected parts prevents the spread of fungi and pests, such as the butterfly or geranium borer.
- Control size and shape: Preventing the geranium from bolting keeps it healthy visual appeal and makes it easy to handle, especially on balconies or terraces with limited space.
When is the best time to prune pansy geraniums?
El optimal time to prune It varies depending on the climate and the type of geranium, but there are two key times:
- Autumn, after floweringFor most temperate climates, this is when the plant has completed its flowering cycle and before the onset of intense cold. This prepares it for winter dormancy and will sprout more vigorously the following year.
- Late winter or early springIn regions where winters are harsh with frequent frosts, it is best to wait until the most intense cold weather has passed and prune just before vegetation awakens in spring.
Pruning too late (midwinter or before flowering ends) can impair flower formation, as these develop on branches formed in the previous season and stimulated by the cold.
Techniques and steps for pruning pansy geraniums
Proper pruning It can tell the difference between a leafy geranium and a straggly or diseased one. To do so, follow these basic steps:
- Prepare clean and sharp tools: Disinfected pruning shears prevent the transmission of diseases.
- Remove old or withered branches: Start by removing any leaves that look dry, broken or limp, as well as yellow leaves and dried flowers.
- Trim excessively long stems: Continue shaping the plant by trimming any stems that stick out or cross over, so that growth is more compact and uniform.
- Always make cuts above a knotThis will stimulate the development of new shoots and prevent dead stems. Leave a few centimeters above the node or bud.
- Do not prune flush: Cutting the plant back by about half is sufficient, as cutting it too drastically can weaken the specimen and cause the loss of essential leaves.
- Remove pruned material: Remove cut branches and leaves around to prevent pests and fungi.
Care after pruning
After pruning, it is essential provide geraniums with thought the necessary care for your recovery and growth:
- Moderate watering: After pruning, water lightly to help the plant overcome stress, avoiding waterlogging that can rot the roots.
- Replace part of the substrate: If it is in a pot, renew the surface layer of soil, ensuring a fertile and well-drained substrate.
- Subscriber: Wait a few weeks after pruning to fertilize, using a fertilizer for flowering plants, to boost their recovery when they resume their activity.
- Protect from the coldIn frost-prone areas, place the pot next to a sheltered wall or cover it with a protective mesh.
Avoid spraying leaves or flowers, since excessive humidity encourages fungi and diseases.
Propagation by cuttings after pruning
An additional advantage of pruning is the possibility of multiply geraniums thought through cuttings from healthy, cut stems. To do this, follow these recommendations:
- Choose healthy, pest-free stems, about 10 to 15 cm and with at least three knots.
- Remove most of the lower leaves, leaving some at the top and cutting away part of its surface to reduce perspiration.
- Optionally, dip the base in rooting hormone to promote roots.
- Place the cutting in a pot with universal substrate, perlite and humus.The first node should be covered by the substrate.
- Place the pot in a bright place but without direct sunlight, and maintain humidity without flooding.
- You'll know it's rooted when new leaves start to emerge.In spring, you can transplant it to its final location.
General care of geranium pansy after pruning
Apart from pruning, it is essential maintain a good level of care throughout the year To ensure abundant blooms and vigorous plants:
- Luz: Place the geranium in a sunny spot, but in summer, protect it during the central hours of the day.
- Temperature: Grows best in temperate climates and requires protection from severe frost. Reduce watering in winter.
- Substratum: Choose specific substrates for geraniums, light and well-draining, to avoid moisture accumulation.
- Fertilizer: fertilize every 15 days during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions and without exceeding them.
- Pest control: pay special attention to the African butterfly, the drill, and aphids, Red spider and cochineal. Preventive treatment is key, especially in spring and summer.
Common pruning mistakes and how to avoid them
Poor pruning can weaken your pansy geranium or affect its flowering. Take note of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Pruning out of season: Cutting in winter or during the flower cycle can affect regrowth and flowering.
- Excessive pruning: Removing too much green mass reduces its photosynthetic capacity and slows growth.
- Using dirty scissors: always with clean tools to prevent infections.
- Do not remove diseased parts: Affected branches and leaves should be removed and disposed of away from other plants.
- Leave remains on the substrate: Collect all pruned material to keep the substrate clean and prevent pests.
Evaluate the shape of the plant before, during and after pruning, ensuring a compact and balanced final appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pruning Geranium Pansy
- Does it only bloom in spring? Most bloom in spring, but with proper care, some specimens can remain in bloom until summer.
- Should I prune if there is a pest infestation? Yes, in addition to using specific products, remove all damaged areas as soon as you notice symptoms.
- Can I prune indoors? Of course. If you grow pansy geraniums indoors, prune them gently every year, preferably after flowering.
- What do I do if the leaves are gone after pruning? If you have cut back too much, keep the plant in a bright location, reduce watering, and wait for it to regain vigor the following season, without pruning again until then.
Dedicate time to Pruning and caring for pansy geraniums It allows you to enjoy vigorous, colorful plants for years to come, ideal for bringing joy to any corner of your home. Observing their annual cycle and adapting to their needs is essential so that, every spring, they shine in all their splendor, full of flowers and energy.