Troubleshooting
Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses' (Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses') 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.
Leggy, sparse growth
Too little light or skipped pinching. Move to full sun and pinch shoot tips regularly to force branching.
Yellowing lower leaves
Usually overwatering or waterlogged compost. Let the mix dry further between waterings and check drainage.
Rust (orange leaf pustules)
Pelargonium rust thrives in damp, still air. Remove affected leaves, improve airflow and avoid wetting foliage.
Weak or faded scent
Insufficient sun and overfeeding with nitrogen dilute the aromatic oils; give more direct light and a leaner, higher-potash feed.
Prevent pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' problems before they start
Most pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common rose geranium problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses' watering schedule
- Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses' light requirements
- Best soil mix for pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses'
- Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses' temperature & humidity
- Full pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' care guide
Looking for pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium graveolens 'Attar of Roses' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' leggy, sparse growth?
Too little light or skipped pinching. Move to full sun and pinch shoot tips regularly to force branching.
Why is my pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' yellowing lower leaves?
Usually overwatering or waterlogged compost. Let the mix dry further between waterings and check drainage.
Why is my pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' rust (orange leaf pustules)?
Pelargonium rust thrives in damp, still air. Remove affected leaves, improve airflow and avoid wetting foliage.
Why is my pelargonium graveolens 'attar of roses' weak or faded scent?
Insufficient sun and overfeeding with nitrogen dilute the aromatic oils; give more direct light and a leaner, higher-potash feed.