Cultivation

Open ground — Pelargonium peltatum

Pelargonium peltatum (L.) L'Hér.

Cultivation of Pelargonium peltatum in open ground requires consideration of its cascading architecture and specific leaf cuticle, which determine the plant's sensitivity to substrate overwatering.

In the reference 10 varieties crop Ivy-leaf geranium, where this is mentioned in the description.

Pelargonium peltatum possesses a thin, wax-like leaf cuticle, which provides drought resistance but requires water balance management. Excess moisture in open ground leads to tissue glassiness and the development of fungal infections; therefore, the crop requires highly aerated substrates.

The plant is thermophilic and should only be planted once the risk of frost has passed, as temperatures below +10 °C are critical for this species. In open ground, the crop prefers full sun with potential shading during high heat to maintain turgor, while excessive nitrogen nutrition negatively affects flowering.

To maintain the ornamental value of the cascading shoots, regular pinching and the removal of faded inflorescences are required. Due to its architecture, when grown in open ground, the plant is most effectively used in hanging baskets, tall planters, or as a groundcover crop.

General information about the subject — on the page Open field.

Sources8

Varieties of Ivy-leaf geranium mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.