Overview
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is a perennial plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is also commonly known as the rough-leaved geranium or hairy-leaved pelargonium. The plant is native to South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape Province.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 50-100cm tall with leaves that are light green in color, thick and hairy. These leaves have a rough texture and are deeply lobed with toothed edges. The flowers of Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. are usually pink-purple in color with dark markings on the upper petals. They bloom in mid-spring to early summer and are pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Uses
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is mainly used for ornamental purposes as it is a popular garden plant. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as colds, flu, and respiratory diseases. The leaves of the plant are crushed and used as an antiseptic and insect repellent. They are also used as a poultice to treat wounds, burns, and skin irritations.
In addition, the essential oil extracted from the plant is used in the perfume industry. It has a sweet scent that is reminiscent of roses and is used in various fragrances and soaps.
Cultivation
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is a relatively easy plant to grow and requires well-drained soil with regular watering. It prefers a sunny or partly shaded spot and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant can be propagated by cuttings or seeds, and it blooms in the second year of growth. It is a frost-tender plant and needs protection during the winter months in colder climates.
Light Requirements
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. requires well-lit environments to grow properly. It is best to place the plant in areas that receive full sunlight for at least six hours per day. In indoor environments, a brightly lit windowsill is recommended.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires moderate to warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature range is between 18°C and 25°C. In colder temperatures, the plant's growth rate may slow down or become stunted. In hot temperatures above 30°C, the plant may suffer from heat stress and dehydration. Hence, it is important to maintain optimal temperature conditions for optimum growth.
Soil Requirements
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. prefers well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The addition of perlite, vermiculite, or sand to the soil mixture can improve drainage. It is recommended to add compost or organic fertilizer to the soil to provide essential nutrients for the plant's growth and development.
Watering Requirements
The plant requires moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering may lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply until excess water flows out the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. Water the plant early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water loss through evaporation.
Cultivation Methods
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is a perennial plant that is commonly grown as a houseplant. It requires a warm, bright location with plenty of light to grow well. The plant prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Pelargonium setulosum is propagated by taking stem cuttings in the late spring or during the summer months.
Watering Needs
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. prefers to be kept on the dry side, and overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered when the soil is completely dry, and watered thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out of the pot. It is important to avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant, as this can lead to fungal issues.
Fertilization
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer is recommended, and should be applied every two weeks from spring until fall. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging, as overfertilization can lead to burned leaves.
Pruning
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done in the spring, and any dead or yellowing leaves should be removed. Pinching back the tips of the stems can encourage the plant to produce bushier growth.
Propagation of Pelargonium setulosum Turcz.
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is a perennial subshrub that is mostly propagated by seed or stem cuttings. The propagation method chosen by a gardener will depend on the plant's existing conditions and the availability of materials and resources.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is one of the most common methods of growing Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. from scratch. The seeds should be sown in soil that is well-drained and fertile. Gardeners can use peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite to boost drainage and aeration. The ideal temperature for seed germination ranges from 20? to 25?.
Before sowing the seeds, they should be soaked in water for up to two hours to increase the chances of germination. Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. seeds should be sown around 2.5 centimeters deep into the soil.
Once the seeds have been sown, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within two to three weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagating Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is also possible by using stem cuttings. Gardeners should first select healthy, disease-free cuttings from the parent plant for the propagation process.
Next, trim the stem cuttings to at least 4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cuttings it in root hormone powder. The cuttings should then be planted in a well-aerated and well-drained soil consisting of perlite and vermiculite. The ideal temperature for root growth is 18? to 24?.
Over the next few weeks, the stem cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded area. After six to eight weeks, the newly rooted cuttings can be planted into individual pots or directly into the garden bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelargonium setulosum Turcz.
Pelargonium setulosum Turcz., commonly known as the rough-leaved pelargonium, is a resilient plant that is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, here are some common diseases and pests that might still affect the plant:
Common Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. Pelargonii and causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. The plant may also have water-soaked spots, which will eventually turn brown.
Gray Mold: Also known as Botrytis, this fungal disease can cause brown spots and a gray moldy growth on leaves and flowers. The moldy growth will eventually cover the whole plant leading to death.
Pest Management
Aphids: Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that weaken the plant and transmit viruses. They are usually found on the underside of leaves. To prevent aphid infestations, you can regularly spray neem oil or insecticidal soap on the plant.
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids suck on the plant's sap, causing stippling or yellowing on the leaves. If left untreated, spider mites can cover the entire plant's leaves in spider webs. You can prevent spider mites by keeping the plant moist and regularly misting it.
Thrips: These insects are tiny and typically feed on the young leaves of a plant. They cause leaf curling and flower distortion. You can manage thrips by spraying insecticidal soap or regularly wiping down leaves with neem oil.
Overall, the key to managing diseases and pests in Pelargonium setulosum Turcz. is to maintain good plant hygiene and to promptly address any issues as they arise.
