El Geranium rotundifolium, also known as Sausana, It is a floral plant that is part of the Geraniaceae family. It is generally naturally distributed in most European countries, with the exception of northern Europe.
This species can be found in countless placesIn fact, many people consider this type of plant to decorate gardens, balconies and windows, patio walls, etc.
Key features
One of the attractions of this particular species, is the color of its flowers of a purple similar to that of amethyst, they are ideal for use as ornamental plants. In Spain, they are very popular with people who love everything related to gardening.
The stems of these plants are usually tended and they are approximately 10 to 30 centimeters long, the hairs are generally soft and most of the time they are reddish in color. Now, its leaves are matte and round in shape, unlike the stem, the leaves are grayish green, with somewhat deep cracks and at the end of these you can notice a small point of dark hue.
This species blooms during the spring and summer seasonOne of its main peculiarities is that they have five not very long petals with a slightly widened edge and a rounded shape that these beautiful flowers form.
Cultivation of Geranium rotundifolium
These species can be grown in all types of soil, the only thing you should always keep in mind is that they must not be extremely humid. These plants require a large amount of sun to accelerate their development, however, many can grow without problems if they are placed in a place where there is more shade and less exposure to the sun's rays.
The multiplication process is carried out by means of cuttings in the course of the warm seasonThey can also be propagated by seed and by separating plants in the fall or spring season. Obtaining the cuttings can also be done during the cold winter season, planting them in a previously prepared soil with not excessive amounts of organic fertilizer.
For its part, rooting usually takes at least 20 days. As with most flowering plants, if you want the plant to bloom in a lush way, it is best to get rid of the flowers that are already dry. To stimulate better growth, ideally apply a compost prepared with humus or any other organic fertilizer dissolved in water.
Care
Thanks to its exceptional flowering, they are perfect as ornamental plants, easily improving the appearance of gardens or terraces or even to place them in pots inside our home, in a sunny area. The truth is that they are very beautiful plants and so that they are always kept in this way, it is best to maintain a series of simple cares that we show you below.
As we mentioned in the previous part, the Geranium rotundifolium it is a species that loves exposure to the sun, so the most appropriate is choose a place where they can receive the rays of this, no matter what season we are in. However, during cold seasons it is necessary to protect them properly, especially when there are low temperatures.
If this is the case, it is advisable to have the geraniums in pots so that you can take them indoors and in this way, avoid that colder temperatures can damage it. When you bring them home, it is very important that you place the plant as close to a window as possible so that they can absorb the light coming from outside. Never put them in dark places.
These species need constant watering, especially during the summer season, when the sun is stronger and rapidly evaporates the water from the ground. Normally, they tolerate soils that are moist quite well, however, it is not advisable to water the pots with too much water to prevent the roots from rotting and the plant dying.
Another essential aspect when taking care of one or more Geranium rotundifolium, is the compost. A correct fertilizer is essential so that the stems can grow strong and flowers have that lilac color so striking. In order to pay these geraniums All you have to do is buy natural fertilizer from a store specialized in plants and dissolve it in a small amount of water, this mixture must be applied once every 15 days during the flowering stage.
Pruning
Most geraniums require fairly frequent pruning. In fact, during the year you must carry out a couple of prunings, which are essential for the correct development of the plant, these prunings must be done at the beginning of the spring and autumn seasons respectively.
In the case of the first, it is done so that the geranium gets more strength before the arrival of the next flowering, while in the fall season, it is done to get rid of the dry flowers and also the broken and weak branches. Similarly, you should keep in mind that the flowers dry relatively quickly.
Plagues and diseases
These are usually plants quite prone to certain diseases and pests, so it is recommended to be attentive and always apply the necessary care for the good welfare of the plant.
Red spider
La Red spider is another of the mortal enemies of this plant, since this pest sucks the sap from the leaves, causing small yellow or brown dots to appear, the leaves begin to fall and the plant eventually dies.
Gray rot
Is spots produced by a fungusIn conditions where there is too much humidity, it can develop very quickly. The solution apart from the specific treatment is to place it in a less humid area.
bacteriosis
Without a doubt one of the most serious diseases, so much so that it is able to kill the plant in its entirety. It all starts with oily stains, especially when humidity and heat are favorable. The only way to deal with this disease is to get rid of all the plants that are already damaged to prevent it from spreading to the healthy ones.