Gardeners urged to use expert's 'game-changing' tip to keep geraniums in bloom
Geraniums have been a favourite among gardeners for centuries - but the beloved blooms sometimes be a bit of a challenge to grow, especially in hot weather.
Nothing breathes life into your garden quite like a flourishing flower patch, and now a gardening guru has divulged that a simple kitchen spice can be a "game-changer" for geraniums.
Despite their vivid colours and elegant appearance, geraniums can struggle in sweltering conditions without the right attention. Yet, a simple 79p trick could strengthen these cherished flowers' resistance to the heat, as per plant expert Elise Harlock.
Elise Harlock of Prestige Flowers revealed: "Cinnamon isn't just for your morning porridge, it's also a potent natural remedy for your plants and a fantastic tool for gardeners.
"It has natural anti-fungal properties that help protect plants from diseases and promote healthy growth. Using cinnamon on your geraniums can be a game-changer, especially during the summer when the weather can be a bit unpredictable."
To keep your geraniums robust, just sprinkle them with cinnamon on the soil or directly onto the stems and leaves, which aids in preventing fungal infections and pests. "For best results, do this early in the morning or late in the evening when the dew is still on the plants, so the cinnamon sticks better," Elise recommended.
Moreover, this common household ingredient can also be applied to mend cuts or damage on your plants. "If you're pruning your geraniums or notice any broken stems, dust the wound with cinnamon to promote healing and prevent rot," reports Nottinghamshire Live.
Cinnamon's benefits extend beyond just your geraniums, as it can help deter pests like ants and gnats, which are common nuisances during the summer months. "Sprinkling cinnamon around the base of your plants or even creating a cinnamon barrier can keep these unwanted guests at bay," Elise said.
You can purchase cinnamon for as little as 79p from both Aldi and Lidl. Other tips to boost your geraniums include regular deadheading. Removing spent flowers can encourage your geraniums to produce more blooms.
Elise added: "Deadheading should be a regular part of your gardening routine. It keeps the plants looking neat and promotes continuous flowering."
Geraniums can often dry out between waterings, so "make sure you water your geraniums thoroughly but let the soil dry out before watering again". The expert warned that overwatering can lead to root rot, which is detrimental to the plants.
A balanced fertiliser is key to keeping your geraniums in top condition, according to gardening expert Elise. "During the growing season, feed your geraniums every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser," she advised.
"This will keep them vibrant and healthy."
Ensure they get enough sunlight. Geraniums thrive in sunlight but also need protection during peak hours. "Place your geraniums where they'll get plenty of morning sun and some afternoon shade to prevent scorching," Elise recommended.
Opt for natural pest control. For those lacking cinnamon, Elise has suggested other natural alternatives such as neem oil or a simple soap spray to keep the pests at bay while protecting the good bugs.
She also advocates for companion planting. Elise advises that to naturally deter pests, one should plant geraniums alongside herbs like basil or mint. "Companion planting is a great way to create a healthier garden ecosystem. Plus, it can add more variety and fragrance to your garden," she says.
Wrapping up her advice, Elise stated: "Gardening doesn't have to be complicated. With a few simple tricks and a bit of cinnamon, you can keep your geraniums-and your entire garden-looking spectacular all summer."
