Troubleshooting
Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' (Pelargonium 'Happy Thought') 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.
Loss of butterfly marking
Shade fades the cream-yellow leaf centre. Give the plant full sun, and remove any plain-green reverted shoots to preserve the variegation.
Pelargonium rust
Yellow spots above and brown pustules below the leaves spread in damp conditions. Pick off infected leaves and improve ventilation.
Grey mould (botrytis)
Spent flowers and humid air cause soft grey rot. Deadhead frequently and avoid overhead watering.
Yellowing lower leaves
Usually overwatering or waterlogged compost. Let the mix dry between waterings and check that drainage holes are clear.
Prevent pelargonium 'happy thought' problems before they start
Most pelargonium 'happy thought' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium 'happy thought' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium 'happy thought' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium 'happy thought' loss of butterfly marking?
Shade fades the cream-yellow leaf centre. Give the plant full sun, and remove any plain-green reverted shoots to preserve the variegation.
Why is my pelargonium 'happy thought' pelargonium rust?
Yellow spots above and brown pustules below the leaves spread in damp conditions. Pick off infected leaves and improve ventilation.
Why is my pelargonium 'happy thought' grey mould (botrytis)?
Spent flowers and humid air cause soft grey rot. Deadhead frequently and avoid overhead watering.
Why is my pelargonium 'happy thought' yellowing lower leaves?
Usually overwatering or waterlogged compost. Let the mix dry between waterings and check that drainage holes are clear.