The Vancouver Centennial Geranium, also known as Pelargonium ‘Vancouver Centennial’, is a hybrid geranium that is considered an annual. This means that it completes its life cycle in one growing season and does not survive the winter to regrow the following year. However, with proper care and protection, it is possible to extend the lifespan of this geranium and enjoy its blooms for a longer period.
Light and Water Requirements:
Like most geraniums, the Vancouver Centennial Geranium thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to reach its full potential. If you live in a hotter climate, providing some shade during the hottest part of the day can prevent the leaves from scorching.
When it comes to watering, geraniums prefer well-drained soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. However, it’s equally important not to let the plants become too dry, as this can cause stress and affect their overall health and blooming capacity. Regular watering, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy, is ideal for these plants.
Soil and Fertilizer:
Geraniums, including the Vancouver Centennial variety, prefer fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, it’s a good idea to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage. This will provide the plants with the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth and abundant blooms.
In terms of fertilization, geraniums benefit from regular feeding throughout the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength can be applied every 4-6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Overwintering:
As mentioned earlier, the Vancouver Centennial Geranium is an annual, meaning it is not frost-tolerant and will not survive the winter outdoors in colder regions. However, if you want to try and keep these geraniums for another season, you have a few options.
One option is to take cuttings from your existing plants in late summer or early fall. Select healthy, non-flowering stems and root them in a well-draining medium such as perlite or vermiculite. Once rooted, pot them up and keep them in a bright, cool location indoors for the winter. With proper care, these cuttings can grow into new plants that can be planted outdoors the following spring.
Another option is to bring the entire plant indoors before the first frost. Dig up the geranium carefully, ensuring you don’t damage the roots, and pot it up in a well-draining container. Place the plant in a sunny window or provide supplemental grow lights to ensure it receives enough light during the winter months. Reduce watering and allow the plant to go slightly dormant during this period. With some luck, the geranium may continue to bloom indoors, albeit less profusely than during the summer.
Personal Experience:
I have had the pleasure of growing the Vancouver Centennial Geranium in my garden, and it has been a delightful addition to my summer floral displays. The vibrant, salmon-colored flowers truly stand out and bring a cheerful atmosphere to any space. I have found that ensuring they receive ample sunlight and maintaining a consistent watering schedule has helped them thrive.
While I have not personally overwintered this particular geranium variety, I have successfully overwintered other geraniums by taking cuttings. It’s a rewarding process to see the cuttings root and develop into new plants, ready to be enjoyed in the garden the following year.
The Vancouver Centennial Geranium is considered an annual, but with proper care, it is possible to extend its lifespan and enjoy its beautiful blooms for a longer period. By providing adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, regular feeding, and considering overwintering options, you can make the most of this lovely geranium in your garden.
