Pelargonium from seeds

We can say that planting pelargonium , relatives of geranium , seeds - this is the most profitable way to grow these wonderful flowers. Why is it so beneficial to plant pelargonium with seeds, because there are other ways? The answer is simple, despite its relative high cost, the seeds of this plant have very high germination. This allows for a small amount of money to grow a large number of sprouts, which bloom abundant flower caps. Yes, and to grow pelargonium from seeds, as practice shows, it is quite simple. Seeds of this plant are large, top covered with leathery, dense shell. From the moment when the seeds are sown, and before flowering they must pass five to six months. You can sow the seeds of this plant at any time of the year. Often, experienced flower growers sow Pelargonium seeds from November to April. But those who are engaged in planting seeds of pelargonium not for the first year, say that it is best to plant them in late February - early March. Thus, by the time when the active growth of seedlings begins, the light day will increase sufficiently.

Preparation

The soil in which you are going to sow the seeds should be loose enough, fluffy, it is good to let in air and moisture. Florists, who know exactly how to plant pelargonium seeds, recommend adding to the soil horse turf, humus and leafy earth, fine perlite and sand. The best soil for planting a beautiful pelargonium is a mixture of turf, sand and peat in a ratio of 2: 1: 1. Before starting the cultivation of pelargonium from seeds in this substrate, it is still desirable to treat it with "Fitosporin-M" or another fungicide. This procedure is very important, as young shoots are highly susceptible to the disease "black leg". Cultivating pelargonium from seeds, flower growers wait with impatience, when the first plant will blossom. To accelerate this process, even invented a scarification (grinding the shell of planting material with fine sandpaper to break off the scales that cover the seed). If the seeds are prepared in this way, they will ascend in just 7-10 days.

Seed collection

Many growers do not know how and when to collect pelargonium seeds, and therefore complain about their poor germination. In fact, if Pelargonium grew in favorable conditions and was pollinated artificially or by insects, then the seed boxes collected with seeds at the beginning of autumn or the end of the summer will certainly sprout. Seeds are checked for germination by planting them in boxes or bowls filled with a substrate. Planting material is sown, then sprinkled on top with a thin layer of sand or substrate (the layer should not exceed 5 millimeters). On top, they are sprayed with water and covered with glass. It is necessary to remove glass every day, to wipe it from condensation and to check seeds for germination. The number of seedlings and determine the quality of seeds. This method is very convenient, because you can learn in advance the quality of planting material.

Features of care

In order for pelargonium to reproduce well with seeds, it is necessary to maintain a constant temperature (in the range of +18 - +22 C °). With the advent of long-awaited shoots, the box with them is transferred to a bright place. If there is enough light, the plants quickly take root and grow strong. When seedlings grow up a little and get stronger, they will need to be protected from direct sunlight, and the ground must be constantly loosened and sprinkled with water to prevent it from drying out. After the appearance on the young plants of three leaves, the seedlings are dived and transplanted into pots.

Believe me, all your works will be repaid a hundredfold at a glance at the flower grown by itself!