Troubleshooting
Rose Geranium problems — and how to fix them
Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) 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.
Pelargonium rust
Distinctive brown spore rings on the undersides of leaves, worst in humid, poorly ventilated conditions. Strip and bin affected leaves, improve airflow, and avoid overhead watering.
Black leg
Rotting and blackening of the stem base, usually from overwatering or cold, wet compost. Use very gritty compost, allow it to dry between waterings, and discard severely affected plants to prevent spread.
Leggy, open growth
Without regular pinching the plant becomes tall and sparse. Pinch out stem tips every few weeks in the growing season and cut back hard in early spring to rejuvenate.
Prevent rose geranium problems before they start
Most rose geranium issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Rose Geranium problems — FAQ
Why is my rose geranium pelargonium rust?
Distinctive brown spore rings on the undersides of leaves, worst in humid, poorly ventilated conditions. Strip and bin affected leaves, improve airflow, and avoid overhead watering.
Why is my rose geranium black leg?
Rotting and blackening of the stem base, usually from overwatering or cold, wet compost. Use very gritty compost, allow it to dry between waterings, and discard severely affected plants to prevent spread.
Why is my rose geranium leggy, open growth?
Without regular pinching the plant becomes tall and sparse. Pinch out stem tips every few weeks in the growing season and cut back hard in early spring to rejuvenate.