“Attar” is a word used to describe any perfume extracted from flowers. Scented attar of roses, extracted from the blooms of roses, was highly desired and very expensive during the Victorian era, which is understandable when you consider it takes 150 pounds (68 kg.) of rose blossoms to make a single ounce (28.5 g.) of fragrance. Thus, geranium attar of rose became an inexpensive substitute for the real thing.
Growing Geranium Attar of Rose
Attar of rose geraniums (Pelargonium capitatum 'Attar of Roses') and other scented geraniums were initially introduced to Europe by way of South Africa. The plants grew in popularity in the United States and became trendy by the 1800s, but as fancy Victorian styles fell out of fashion, so did ruffly attar of rose geraniums. Today, attar of rose scented geraniums have regained a following among gardeners who appreciate them for their attractive foliage and sweet scent. They are considered heirloom plants. Attar of rose scented geraniums is easy to grow in the warm climates of USDA plant hardiness zones 10 and 11. The plants are lovely in flower beds, patio containers, or hanging baskets. Geranium attar of rose grows in full sun or partial shade, although the plant benefits from afternoon shade in hot climates. Plant these scented geraniums in average, well-drained soil. Avoid rich soil, which may decrease the sweet aroma. Gardeners in cooler climates can grow geranium attar of rose indoors, where it remains beautiful all year long. Indoor plants benefit from a little shade in summer, but they need bright light throughout the winter months.
Caring for Attar of Rose Geraniums
Geranium attar of rose is a drought tolerant plant that doesn’t tolerate soggy soil. Water only when the top inch (2.5 cm.) of soil feels dry to the touch. Water indoor plants deeply, then allow the pot to drain thoroughly. Fertilize plants every three to four weeks using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Alternatively, use a slow-release granular fertilizer early in the growing season. Be careful not to overfeed attar of rose geraniums, as too much fertilizer may minimize the scent of the blooms. Pinch the stem tips of young plants occasionally to produce bushier growth. Prune attar of rose geraniums if the plant begins to look long and leggy.
-
Should You Cut Back Roses In The Fall? – When To Prune Your Prized Shrubs For WinterDiscover whether to cut back roses before the onset of winter – or to leave plants alone until spring.
-
Proven Health Benefits Of Gardening – Why It’s Good To Get Your Hands DirtyThere are so many health benefits of gardening for every age and ability level, it may hold the key to many of the world’s problems. Learn about the ways gardening can improve your life.
-
Pets And Citronella Geraniums – Is Citronella Toxic To PetsIs citronella safe for pets? If you grow scented geraniums, be sure to keep your dogs and cats away. Scented geraniums are toxic to pets. Learn more here.
-
Mosquito Plant Pruning: How To Cut Back Citronella Geranium PlantsAlthough not as effective as commercially prepared repellents, the mosquito plant is a popular choice for backyard gardens. While this is just one aspect of growing these plants, pruning mosquito geraniums is another. Learn more in this article.
-
Rooting Pelargonium Cuttings: Growing Scented Geraniums From CuttingsScented geraniums (Pelargoniums) are tender perennials available in delightful scents like spice, mint, various fruits, and rose. If you love scented geraniums, you can easily multiply your plants by rooting Pelargonium cuttings. Learn how in this article.
-
Prince Of Orange Flower Info: Prince Of Orange Scented Geranium CarePrince of Orange pelargoniums are scented leaf geraniums that exudes the warm aroma of citrus. Want to try your hand at growing Prince of Orange pelargoniums? Growing Prince of Orange geraniums isn?t difficult, as you?re about to find out! Click for more info.
-
How To Care For Citronella Mosquito PlantsWhile we may consider citronella plant for mosquitoes a common garden plant, we’re probably thinking of citronella geranium, a delicately scented geranium that may or may not repel insects, and can be grown in the garden or as a houseplant.
-
Scented Geranium Care: How To Grow Scented GeraniumScented geranium plants are a sensual delight in any home or garden. Read the following article to get tips on growing scented geranium plants so you can take advantage of all they have to offer.
