Ivy Pelargoniums
 Text and Photographs by our member Hannah Le Cras of :
Picture
​Also known as: Ivy geraniums, ivies, climbing/trailing geraniums, ivy-leaved pelargoniums.

Scientific name: Pelargonium peltatum

Country of origin: South Africa

Description: Ivy pelargoniums are semi-succulent, perennial plants with long trailing stems and glossy green ivy shaped leaves. Flowers are borne in clusters and come in various shades of white, pink, red and purple depending on variety.

Flowering season: Main flowering period is in spring and early summer, but many varieties will flower all year round in Perth.

Watering requirements: Low – typically once a week for a medium to large sized pot plant. Water deeply and allow to dry out before watering again.
Signs of over-watering:
  • The leaves feel limp or appear wilted.
  • The leaves are yellowing and dropping off, yet when you stick your finger into the soil, it is wet.
  • The plant is looking generally unhealthy and there are no signs of pests that could be responsible for its condition.
  • You notice fungus gnats (tiny black flies) flying out of the plant when it is disturbed. Fungus gnats thrive in soil that is kept constantly wet.
  • There are raised, corky brown spots on the backs of the leaves (this is called oedema).
Signs of under-watering:
  • The lower/older leaves go yellow from the edges and eventually dry up and drop off.
  • The buds dry up.
  • Growth is stunted and slow.

​Position: Ivies tolerate less sun than any other type of pelargonium. Morning sun or dappled all day shade is best. Protect from hot sun.
​
Fertilising: Ivies are not heavy feeders but do benefit from occasional fertilizing. Favourite fertilisers include blood and bone, Thrive Flower and Fruit and Powerfeed Roses and Flowers. ​
Common Pests
Type
Signs
Treatment
​Caterpillars
Holes in the leaves or buds
Rose Shield
Mavrik Gun
Success Ultra
Dipel
​Mealybug
White, cotton-like/fluffy deposits on the stems (particularly terminal ends), leaf joints or buds
Wilting and distortion of new leaves
Yellowing of leaves and leaf drop
Sooty mould 
Neem oil
Eco Pest oil
Richgro Bug Killa
Thrips
Tiny, rice-like black flecks that fall out of a flower when you shake it onto your hand
Deformed new growth or flowers
Tiny black specks on leaf surface (which is their waste)
Tiny discoloured spots on leaves
​Neem oil
Eco Pest oil
Richgro Bug Killa
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