Troubleshooting
Pelargonium triste problems — and how to fix them
Pelargonium triste (Pelargonium triste) 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.
Tuber rot
Watering during summer dormancy or in poorly drained soil rots the tuber. Keep dry and cool in summer and use a sharply draining mineral mix.
Dormancy mistaken for death
Foliage naturally yellows and disappears in late spring; this is normal summer rest. Stop watering and wait for autumn regrowth.
Weak, etiolated leaves
Too little light produces floppy, pale foliage. Provide full sun during the winter growing season.
Fungus gnats and mealybugs
Damp compost breeds fungus gnats; let soil dry and use yellow sticky traps. Check the crown and tuber for mealybugs and treat with alcohol or a systemic.
Prevent pelargonium triste problems before they start
Most pelargonium triste issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pelargonium triste in general rather than its problems? Read the full pelargonium triste care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pelargonium triste problems — FAQ
Why is my pelargonium triste tuber rot?
Watering during summer dormancy or in poorly drained soil rots the tuber. Keep dry and cool in summer and use a sharply draining mineral mix.
Why is my pelargonium triste dormancy mistaken for death?
Foliage naturally yellows and disappears in late spring; this is normal summer rest. Stop watering and wait for autumn regrowth.
Why is my pelargonium triste weak, etiolated leaves?
Too little light produces floppy, pale foliage. Provide full sun during the winter growing season.
Why is my pelargonium triste fungus gnats and mealybugs?
Damp compost breeds fungus gnats; let soil dry and use yellow sticky traps. Check the crown and tuber for mealybugs and treat with alcohol or a systemic.