Troubleshooting
Pelargonium 'Lara Starshine' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium 'Lara Starshine' (Pelargonium 'Lara Starshine') 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.
Lax, weak-scented growth
Too little light or over-feeding with nitrogen. Grow in full sun and feed sparingly to keep growth firm and aromatic; pinch tips to encourage bushiness.
Pelargonium rust
Brown pustules in rings on leaf undersides. Remove affected leaves, improve airflow, and avoid wetting the foliage.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Grey mould on soft foliage and spent flowers in damp, crowded conditions. Thin growth, deadhead, and ventilate well.
Overwatering / root rot
Soggy compost yellows leaves and rots roots. Let the surface dry between waterings and use free-draining pots and mix.
Prevent pelargonium 'lara starshine' problems before they start
Most pelargonium 'lara starshine' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium 'lara starshine' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium 'lara starshine' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium 'Lara Starshine' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium 'lara starshine' lax, weak-scented growth?
Too little light or over-feeding with nitrogen. Grow in full sun and feed sparingly to keep growth firm and aromatic; pinch tips to encourage bushiness.
Why is my pelargonium 'lara starshine' pelargonium rust?
Brown pustules in rings on leaf undersides. Remove affected leaves, improve airflow, and avoid wetting the foliage.
Why is my pelargonium 'lara starshine' botrytis (grey mould)?
Grey mould on soft foliage and spent flowers in damp, crowded conditions. Thin growth, deadhead, and ventilate well.
Why is my pelargonium 'lara starshine' overwatering / root rot?
Soggy compost yellows leaves and rots roots. Let the surface dry between waterings and use free-draining pots and mix.