Troubleshooting
Pelargonium peltatum 'Tomcat' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium peltatum 'Tomcat' (Pelargonium peltatum 'Tomcat') 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.
Root and stem rot
Caused by overwatering or poorly drained compost; let the mix dry between waterings and ensure drainage holes.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Fuzzy grey rot on flowers and leaves in damp, crowded conditions; improve airflow and deadhead spent blooms promptly.
Leggy growth, few flowers
From too little light or skipped feeding; move to full sun and use a high-potash feed in the growing season.
Aphids and whitefly
Cluster on soft new shoots and flower buds; rinse off or treat with insecticidal soap.
Prevent pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' problems before they start
Most pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium peltatum 'Tomcat' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' root and stem rot?
Caused by overwatering or poorly drained compost; let the mix dry between waterings and ensure drainage holes.
Why is my pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' botrytis (grey mould)?
Fuzzy grey rot on flowers and leaves in damp, crowded conditions; improve airflow and deadhead spent blooms promptly.
Why is my pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' leggy growth, few flowers?
From too little light or skipped feeding; move to full sun and use a high-potash feed in the growing season.
Why is my pelargonium peltatum 'tomcat' aphids and whitefly?
Cluster on soft new shoots and flower buds; rinse off or treat with insecticidal soap.