Geranium - one of the most popular plants lovers of beds and home flower beds. It grows well both in open field and at home. It is appreciated for its rapid growth, decorativeness, unpretentiousness. In order for the plant to enjoy flowering for a long time, experienced growers advise him to fertilize.
Brief description of the plant
Geranium is a member of the family of the same name. This is a perennial flowering plant, numbering about 300 species, most of which grow under the open sky in temperate regions and subtropical mountains. Some species are introduced into the indoor culture.
The second name of the plant is the crane, because of the similarity of its fruit with the crane's beak.
We advise you to read about the features of geranium care, how to grow a houseplant.The flower reaches a height of 60 cm. It has a strong upright or creeping stem and an extensive rhizome. Leaflets are dissected and lobed. During flowering in early and mid-summer, the plant produces flower stalks with 2-3 large flowers of white, blue, purple, and purple flowers. After flowering, the fruit is formed in the form of a box.
The success of survival, longevity and decorative room geranium to a large extent depends on the place where it grows, and the soil in which it is planted. This flower culture loves the light, but it also accepts shadow. Feels best in a little shading. 
As for the soil, at home geraniums are planted in nutrient soil for flowering plants or universal soil, which can be purchased at a specialty store. The flower can be planted in a mixture mixed from sod land (8 parts), humus (2 parts), sand (1 part).
Main soil requirements:
- friability;
- good air and water permeability;
- neutral or weakly acid pH.
Geranium is indifferent to air humidity. It does not need spraying. This procedure may even be harmful to the flower.
Did you know? In the process of research conducted by Indian scientists, it was proved that the plant has antidepressant effects. Geranium essential oil is actively used in aromatherapy for disorders of the nervous system, stress or bad mood.
What are the dressings for?
When grown indoors geranium does not require special care. She is considered one of the undemanding indoor plants, which needs a minimum of attention from the owner. However, the maximum degree of decoration can be achieved only with regular quality care and periodic fertilization.
In the process of growth and development, the plant draws nutrients from the soil in which it is planted. Naturally, their stock is not unlimited, and therefore requires periodic replenishment. The stock of elements in the soil after planting or transplanting grabs a flower for about 2 months. In the future, the earth will be increasingly depleted, and the flower supply for full growth and development will already be lacking. 
The main signs that the plant is nutritionally deficient are:
- it slowly grows or stops growing altogether;
- he has stems stretched out;
- leaves became light, small;
- no bloom;
- the flower began to get sick often.
Most often used ready-made mineral fertilizers, produced specifically for indoor flowering crops. There are also complexes for violets and geraniums. Before flowering, it is important for the plant to get enough nitrogen, and in the flower release phase (from about July) - phosphorus and potassium.
Important! Organic fertilizers are harmful to geraniums. They are not worth making.
Iodine fertilizer features
In addition to complex fertilizers, geranium responds well to fertilizing from iodine. It is after such a simple tool that it gives the most lush flowering, and its root system is also strengthened.
pros
The advantages of such feeding include:
- availability;
- simplicity;
- quick effect;
- effect on better plant growth;
- acceleration of bud formation;
- stimulate better nitrogen absorption;
- intensification of green mass increase;
- strengthening the immunity of room culture;
- prevention of infection of certain diseases;
- soil disinfection.
Video: Why iodine for geranium
Minuses
There can be only one lack of fertilizing - it is necessary to strictly observe the proportions and technology of irrigation, since breaking them can lead to deterioration of the flower, damage to the root system and even death.
Did you know? The aroma of geraniums can often be found in men's fragrances. It is used in its products by such famous perfume brands as Oriflame, Frederic Malle, Diptyque, Hugo Boss In Motion, Burberry Classic for Men.
When to fertilize plants
Iodine bait should be made in the period from May to September. Too often they are not worth doing. It will be enough once in 3-4 months. Frequent and haphazard feeding gives the plant not harm, but harm. It becomes vulnerable to diseases and pests, and its root system is greatly weakened.
Fertilize only a plant that is in a favorable microclimate. If, for example, it is under stress from excessive illumination or after the bay, then feedings should be delayed. It is important to place the flower in the recommended conditions, arrange regular and high-quality care for it, and only after a while, when it “comes to its senses,” feed it.
How to make a solution and how to water
Pharmaceutical iodine and distilled purified water are used for fertilizing. Well suited also rain or melt water.
Prepare the solution as follows:
- One drop of iodine (5%) drip into the water.
- Stir well.
- If desired, add 1 ml of hydrogen peroxide.
Important! Fertilizers should be applied an hour after abundant watering. This is necessary in order not to burn the root system.
Possible consequences
After iodine dressing with the flower, the following changes occur:
- lush flowering occurs;
- bloom lasts a long time.
At hit of solution on foliage it is necessary to wet immediately with its dry fabric.
The fact that fertilizing was introduced incorrectly and the soil now contains an excessive amount of iodine is indicated by yellowing of the buds. 
Indoor geranium - a beautiful flowering plant, which requires the owner of the minimum amount of time and effort. With high-quality care, the creation of favorable conditions and timely applied fertilizing, it will please with lush and long flowering for many years.
