Troubleshooting
Pelargonium 'Mrs Pollock' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium 'Mrs Pollock' (Pelargonium 'Mrs Pollock') 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.
Poor leaf colour
Too little sun or excess nitrogen washes out the cream, gold and bronze zones. Move to full sun and use a high-potash, low-nitrogen feed.
Slow, weak growth
Tricolour zonals are naturally slow; cold, wet roots stall them further. Keep warm, bright and on the dry side, and pot on only when truly rootbound.
Pelargonium rust
Brown pustules under the leaves spread in humid air. Remove affected foliage and improve ventilation.
Root or stem rot
Heavy, soggy compost causes blackleg and basal rot. Use a very free-draining mix and let it dry between waterings.
Prevent pelargonium 'mrs pollock' problems before they start
Most pelargonium 'mrs pollock' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium 'mrs pollock' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium 'mrs pollock' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium 'Mrs Pollock' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium 'mrs pollock' poor leaf colour?
Too little sun or excess nitrogen washes out the cream, gold and bronze zones. Move to full sun and use a high-potash, low-nitrogen feed.
Why is my pelargonium 'mrs pollock' slow, weak growth?
Tricolour zonals are naturally slow; cold, wet roots stall them further. Keep warm, bright and on the dry side, and pot on only when truly rootbound.
Why is my pelargonium 'mrs pollock' pelargonium rust?
Brown pustules under the leaves spread in humid air. Remove affected foliage and improve ventilation.
Why is my pelargonium 'mrs pollock' root or stem rot?
Heavy, soggy compost causes blackleg and basal rot. Use a very free-draining mix and let it dry between waterings.