Troubleshooting
Geranium phaeum problems — and how to fix them
Geranium phaeum (Geranium phaeum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leaf scorch in sun and drought
Foliage browns and crisps in hot, dry, sunny sites. Move to shade and keep soil from drying out completely.
Powdery mildew
White coating in dry, still conditions. Cut affected leaves back to the base, improve airflow, and water at soil level to flush fresh growth.
Excessive self-seeding
Naturalises freely from seed, which can crowd neighbours. Deadhead before seed sets if you want to limit spread.
Tatty post-flowering foliage
Leaves look ragged after blooming. Shear the whole plant to the ground after flowering for a fresh mound of new foliage.
Prevent geranium phaeum problems before they start
Most geranium phaeum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Geranium phaeum varieties: common problems
Looking for geranium phaeum in general rather than its problems? Read the full geranium phaeum care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Geranium phaeum problems — FAQ
Why is my geranium phaeum leaf scorch in sun and drought?
Foliage browns and crisps in hot, dry, sunny sites. Move to shade and keep soil from drying out completely.
Why is my geranium phaeum powdery mildew?
White coating in dry, still conditions. Cut affected leaves back to the base, improve airflow, and water at soil level to flush fresh growth.
Why is my geranium phaeum excessive self-seeding?
Naturalises freely from seed, which can crowd neighbours. Deadhead before seed sets if you want to limit spread.
Why is my geranium phaeum tatty post-flowering foliage?
Leaves look ragged after blooming. Shear the whole plant to the ground after flowering for a fresh mound of new foliage.