Appleblossom Geranium, also known as Pelargonium ‘Appleblossom Rosebud’, is a stunning plant that has captured the hearts of many gardeners, including Queen Victoria herself. This particular variety of Zonal Geranium is a tender perennial, meaning it is not winter hardy and will not survive freezing temperatures. However, with proper care, it can be grown as a perennial in warmer climates or as an annual in colder regions.
The term “tender perennial” refers to plants that are not able to withstand freezing temperatures and require protection or special care to survive the winter. In the case of Appleblossom Geranium, it is native to South Africa, where it thrives in a warm and sunny climate. In regions with mild winters or when grown in containers that can be brought indoors, it can survive and continue to bloom for multiple years.
In colder climates, where freezing temperatures are common, Appleblossom Geranium is typically treated as an annual. This means that it is planted in the spring, enjoyed throughout the growing season, and then discarded or replaced in the fall before the first frost. While it may seem disappointing to only have one season of enjoyment from this beautiful plant, many gardeners find it well worth the effort to include it in their annual plantings.
To care for Appleblossom Geranium as a perennial in warmer climates, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to find the right balance.
In terms of fertilization, Appleblossom Geranium benefits from regular feeding throughout the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. It is also a good idea to remove any spent flowers or dead leaves to encourage new growth and prevent disease.
As the temperatures start to drop in colder regions, it is time to prepare Appleblossom Geranium for the winter. If you have it planted in the ground, you can dig up the plant and pot it to bring indoors. Place it in a sunny window or under grow lights and continue to care for it as you would during the growing season. If you prefer, you can also take cuttings from the plant in the fall and root them in pots to ensure new plants for the following year.
If you choose to grow Appleblossom Geranium as an annual, you can enjoy its beauty for one season and then replace it with new plants the following year. This is a popular choice for gardeners in colder climates who want to have a continuous display of vibrant flowers throughout the summer months. By purchasing new plants each year or starting seeds indoors, you can ensure a fresh batch of Appleblossom Geraniums to brighten up your garden.
Appleblossom Geranium, or Pelargonium ‘Appleblossom Rosebud’, is a tender perennial that can be grown as a perennial in warmer climates or as an annual in colder regions. Its stunning double rose-shaped flowers and its association with Queen Victoria make it a popular choice for many gardeners. Whether you choose to enjoy it year after year or as a seasonal treat, this plant is sure to add beauty and charm to any garden or landscape.
