Scented Geraniums

SCENTED GERANIUMS - by Pearl Anderson

 

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That hardy little plant, the geranium, has long been a favorite in gardens and on window sills. However, when we refer to a "scented geranium," we would be more correct to call them scented pelargoniums. There are more than 280 species and sub-species of the pelargoniums, most of which come from South Africa.

The scenteds are usually not noted for showy or aboundant floral displays, but in the scent department, there are few plants more delightful. Some are spicy, some minty, there are fruit scenteds, others have a more "rose" scent than most roses.

If you want to overwinter your geraniums, it's necessary to bring them into a sheltered environment for the winter. This does not necessarily mean they have to be in the house or a heated greenhouse. I have a glassed-in southern porch, unheated, that seems to winter over geraniums nicely. Milder winters may see them blooming on and off all winter long. Some of our more severe winters may push them into a mere survival mode.

To prepare your plants for overwintering, trim back to older stems, removing all tender, new growth. While you still need to water occasionally, cut back to perhaps 50% of what you would do in hot weather. Fertilize very lightly, and not often.

With all this trimming, you have the opportunity to make new starts for next spring, or the marvelous chance to make potporri, sachet bags, or even add some of the leaves to cooking, depending on which "flavors" you have.

There are various books and references that will give you more information on geraniums. For specific information on scented geraniums, there is a nice little pamphlet put out by Story Publishing -- Growing and Using Scented Geraniums, by Mary Peddie, Judy Lewis and John Lewis. It's bulletin A-131. There are even a few recipes at the back of the pamphlet for using geraniums in your cooking.

List of Scented Geraniums

Source of Scented Geraniums

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