Regal Pelargoniums – The Aristocrats of the Pelargonium family.
They are a little fussy with light, however Regal Pelargoniums are worth the effort, and really not that difficult to grow.
These are the ones with the large frilly flowers. Regal Pelargoniums have flowers that range in colour from very pale pinks through to deep purples.
They do prefer a cooler and moister habitat than other types and flower from spring through to mid summer.
Characterised by masses of flowers, they grow best in containers as this allows then to be positioned in the garden where they receive good morning sun and protection from the heat of the afternoon sun in summer.
Regals grow well in containers and this also allows them to positioned where they they will not be subject to frosts.
Propagating Regal Pelargoniums from Cuttings.
Cuttings are best taken in spring, and they are easy to strike.
- Choose healthy tip cuttings around 5 cms (2 inches) long. They need to be cut cut below where the leave joins the stem (at a leaf node).
- Let the cutting harden off for 2 days in a cool dry place.
- We use individual pots for Regals as this allows for easier handling.
- The cuttings are then placed into the propagating mix and watered in.
- A propagation tray that gives bottom heat of around 20 C is ideal. If you don’t have one of these keep the cuttings in a warm position.
- Water regularly with a diluted liquid seaweed fertiliser, however do not allow the soil to become soggy. Good drainage is essential.
The cuttings will soon show signs of new growth and once some good leaf growth is evident it is time to pinch out the central leader to promote a bushy habit.
Once the plants reach a good size you can pot them up into larger containers.