Troubleshooting
Pelargonium 'Lemon Fancy' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium 'Lemon Fancy' (Pelargonium 'Lemon Fancy') 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.
Tall, leggy stems
Vigour plus low light or no pinching make it sprawl; prune hard and pinch growing tips to maintain a bushy form.
Crown and stem rot
Overwatering or wet winter compost rots the base; reduce watering, improve drainage and keep it on the dry side in cold months.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Damp, still air greys and spots the foliage; remove affected leaves and increase airflow around the plant.
Whitefly and aphids
Sap-feeders gather on soft growth under glass; rinse off and treat with insecticidal soap, improving ventilation.
Prevent pelargonium 'lemon fancy' problems before they start
Most pelargonium 'lemon fancy' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium 'lemon fancy' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium 'lemon fancy' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium 'Lemon Fancy' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium 'lemon fancy' tall, leggy stems?
Vigour plus low light or no pinching make it sprawl; prune hard and pinch growing tips to maintain a bushy form.
Why is my pelargonium 'lemon fancy' crown and stem rot?
Overwatering or wet winter compost rots the base; reduce watering, improve drainage and keep it on the dry side in cold months.
Why is my pelargonium 'lemon fancy' botrytis (grey mould)?
Damp, still air greys and spots the foliage; remove affected leaves and increase airflow around the plant.
Why is my pelargonium 'lemon fancy' whitefly and aphids?
Sap-feeders gather on soft growth under glass; rinse off and treat with insecticidal soap, improving ventilation.