- Species and varieties: Pelargonium, commonly known as geraniums, belong to the Geraniaceae family. The 'Candy Flowers' series is a hybrid variety known for its vibrant and colorful blooms, ideal for indoor cultivation.
- Hybrid or heirloom: The 'Candy Flowers' series is a hybrid variety. Hybrid seeds are created by cross-pollinating two different parent plants to produce offspring with desirable traits such as improved vigor, disease resistance, and unique flower colors.
- Pruning and training: Regular deadheading of spent blooms encourages continuous flowering. Pinching back the stems can promote bushier growth. Pruning should be done in early spring to remove any leggy or damaged growth.
- Fertilization needs: Pelargonium hybrids benefit from regular feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Hardiness zones: Pelargonium hybrids are typically grown as annuals in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. In cooler climates, they are often grown as indoor plants or in containers that can be brought indoors during colder months.
- Climate requirements: Pelargonium hybrids thrive in warm, sunny conditions. They prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. They require well-draining soil and moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.