From our perspective, we scented geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are sun-worshippers at heart. We thrive and produce the most potent essential oils in our leaves when we receive at least six hours of bright, direct sunlight daily. However, we appreciate some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates to prevent our foliage from scorching. We are not fussy about soil, but we insist on excellent drainage. Sitting in waterlogged soil is a death sentence for our roots, leading to rot. A light, sandy, and slightly acidic to neutral potting mix makes us very happy. While we are drought-tolerant once established, we prefer consistent, moderate watering. Please water us deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but always allow the excess to drain away completely.
We are incredibly generous and easy to propagate, allowing you to create many new plants from a single parent. The simplest method is through stem cuttings. In spring or late summer, simply snip a 3-4 inch piece of a healthy, non-flowering stem. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in a rooting hormone (this encourages us, but is not always essential), and place the cutting in a small pot filled with a moist, soilless potting mix. Keep the soil lightly damp and place the pot in a bright, warm spot out of direct sun. Within a few weeks, our roots will establish themselves, and you will have a new, genetically identical plant ready to care for.
Our most defining feature is our wonderfully aromatic foliage. The scent is not merely for your enjoyment; it is our primary defense mechanism. The essential oils we produce in tiny glandular trichomes on our leaves deter herbivores like deer and rabbits from eating us and protect us from some fungal pathogens and pests. When you brush against our leaves, you rupture these tiny cells, releasing the fragrant oils into the air. Our scents are incredibly diverse, ranging from rose and lemon to mint, nutmeg, and even chocolate, depending on our cultivar.
We offer our leaves for a variety of uses beyond ornamental gardening. Our fragrant foliage can be harvested and used to make naturally scented potpourris and sachets for lining drawers and freshening closets. Fresh leaves can be layered in the bottom of a cake pan before baking to impart a subtle flavor to desserts, or they can be used to flavor sugars and jellies. When steeped, our leaves make a calming herbal tea. Furthermore, the essential oils distilled from our leaves are valued in the perfume industry, aromatherapy, and as a natural ingredient in homemade skincare products like soaps and lotions.
