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Description
Pelargonium Chelsea Gem, also known as Geranium Chelsea Gem, is a hybrid plant that belongs to the family of Geraniaceae. It is a popular choice among gardeners due to its beautiful flowers and long blooming season. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and spread up to 1.5 feet wide. Its flowers are a bright shade of pink and have a white center. The plant has a bushy growth habit, and its foliage is green and has a slightly fuzzy texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Pelargonium |
Appearance
The Pelargonium Chelsea Gem plant has a bushy growth habit, and its foliage is green and has a slightly fuzzy texture. Its flowers are a bright shade of pink and have a white center. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and spread up to 1.5 feet wide. Its leaves are deeply lobed and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant is an evergreen perennial and blooms from spring to fall.
Care Guide
Pelargonium Chelsea Gem is a low maintenance plant and easy to care for. It requires moderate watering and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. It requires full sun to partial shade and can be grown in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pelargonium Chelsea Gem plant is susceptible to common pests and diseases like spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. Regular inspection of the plant can help prevent pest infestations and disease outbreaks. If pest infestations occur, insecticidal soap can be used to control them. For root rot, the plant should be repotted into fresh, well-draining soil.
Habitat
Pelargonium Chelsea Gem is native to South Africa and is commonly grown in gardens and containers worldwide. It prefers warm, sunny climates and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is a popular choice for borders, rock gardens, and hanging baskets due to its long blooming season and beautiful flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pelargonium Chelsea Gem be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Chelsea Gem can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should Pelargonium Chelsea Gem be fertilized?
A: Pelargonium Chelsea Gem should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Pelargonium Chelsea Gem require pruning?
A: Yes, Pelargonium Chelsea Gem should be pruned regularly to promote bushier growth and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Q: What is the best time to plant Pelargonium Chelsea Gem?
A: Pelargonium Chelsea Gem can be planted in the spring or fall when the weather is mild.
Related Plants
- Pelargonium ‘Appleblossom Rosebud’
- Pelargonium ‘Pink Capitatum’
- Pelargonium ‘Mrs. Pollock’
- Pelargonium ‘Attar of Roses’
References
- “Pelargonium ‘Chelsea Gem’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 30 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274572&isprofile=1&basic=pelargonium>.
- “Pelargonium Chelsea Gem.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 30 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/105503/Pelargonium-Chelsea-Gem/Details>.
- “Pelargonium Chelsea Gem.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 30 July 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/geranium/pelargonium-chelsea-gem.htm>.
