Troubleshooting
Long-leaved Pelargonium problems — and how to fix them
Long-leaved Pelargonium (Pelargonium longifolium) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Tuber rot in summer
Caused by watering during dormancy when the plant needs almost complete dryness. Allow the compost to remain bone dry once the leaves have fully died back.
Failure to flower
Usually the result of insufficient light or keeping the plant in growth year-round without a proper dry summer rest, which is needed to trigger flower bud initiation.
Prevent long-leaved pelargonium problems before they start
Most long-leaved pelargonium issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Long-leaved Pelargonium problems — FAQ
Why is my long-leaved pelargonium tuber rot in summer?
Caused by watering during dormancy when the plant needs almost complete dryness. Allow the compost to remain bone dry once the leaves have fully died back.
Why is my long-leaved pelargonium failure to flower?
Usually the result of insufficient light or keeping the plant in growth year-round without a proper dry summer rest, which is needed to trigger flower bud initiation.