Troubleshooting
Pelargonium 'Snowflake' problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium 'Snowflake' (Pelargonium 'Snowflake') 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.
Leggy, washed-out growth
Too little light stretches the stems and dulls the cream variegation; move to a brighter spot and pinch back to rebuild density.
Stem and crown rot
Overwatering or wet winter compost rots the soft stems from the base; water less, improve drainage and keep foliage dry.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Damp, stagnant air spots and greys the velvety leaves; remove affected foliage, increase airflow and avoid wetting the leaves.
Whitefly and aphids
Sap-suckers cluster on soft new growth under glass; rinse off, use insecticidal soap and improve ventilation.
Prevent pelargonium 'snowflake' problems before they start
Most pelargonium 'snowflake' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium 'snowflake' in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium 'snowflake' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium 'Snowflake' problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium 'snowflake' leggy, washed-out growth?
Too little light stretches the stems and dulls the cream variegation; move to a brighter spot and pinch back to rebuild density.
Why is my pelargonium 'snowflake' stem and crown rot?
Overwatering or wet winter compost rots the soft stems from the base; water less, improve drainage and keep foliage dry.
Why is my pelargonium 'snowflake' botrytis (grey mould)?
Damp, stagnant air spots and greys the velvety leaves; remove affected foliage, increase airflow and avoid wetting the leaves.
Why is my pelargonium 'snowflake' whitefly and aphids?
Sap-suckers cluster on soft new growth under glass; rinse off, use insecticidal soap and improve ventilation.