Black Velvet Rose Geranium Plant

There has never been a geranium quite like the Black Velvet Rose Geranium Plant! This unique hybrid has lobed, serrated foliage that is almost a solid chocolate-brown, highlighted by a brilliant green sharply defined edge. And as if the foliage wasn't quite enough, the blossoms, which emerge a little later than most, are like pink icing on a chocolate cake. It is no wonder that this is an All-America Selection!

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in spring after the last frost date
• - Space plants 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-6.5
• - Well-draining soil rich in organic matter

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry
• - Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot

Fertilizer Type:

• - Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season
• - Reduce fertilizing in late summer to prepare for winter dormancy

Pruning and Training:

• - Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching if they start getting leggy
• - Remove spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites
• - Monitor for diseases such as botrytis and bacterial leaf spot

Blooming Indicators:

• - Produces clusters of single or double flowers
• - Blooms continuously from spring through fall

Light Requirements:

• - Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade
• - Needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F
• - Can tolerate heat but may stop blooming in extreme temperatures
• - Not frost-hardy; protect or bring indoors when temperatures drop below 40°F

Companion Plants for Geraniums:

Zonal geraniums pair well with a variety of complementary plants that share similar growing conditions. Some excellent companions include:

• - Bacopa: This trailing plant with small, delicate flowers provides a soft cascade effect
• - Calibrachoa: Also known as million bells, these plants offer abundant, small petunia-like flowers
• - Petunias: These classic annuals come in a wide range of colors and can fill spaces quickly
• - Alyssum: Low-growing and fragrant, alyssum creates a beautiful carpet of tiny flowers
• - Lobelia: Known for its intense blue flowers, lobelia adds a pop of color and can trail or mound