Saturday Star

THE WOW FACTOR

No matter how big or small your home balcony or patio, gardening is an option for you. Let your mind run wild with all the possibilit­ies

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find Pelargoniu­ms taking pride of place. The selection is wide. Trailing Pelargoniu­ms have soft hanging stems that carry clusters of stunning blooms in almost all possible colours. The upright Pelargoniu­m varieties carry clusters of blooms on strong, sturdy stems that can reach a height of between 30cm and 50cm. Regal Pelargoniu­ms are larger plants carrying larger blooms and hence better suited to being a feature plant. The velvety foliage of the regal Pelargoniu­m is sweetly perfumed. All Pelargoniu­ms attract insects, bees and butterflie­s.

With such a wide range of options, it’s best to visit your closest GCA to view for yourself and ask for expert advice on which variety will suit your specific purpose best. PLANTING AND CARE GUIDELINES When planting in containers, start with compost-rich, welldraine­d soil. Intense flowering relies on nutrient-rich soil; regular nutrition will enhance and prolong the flower display. Sunshine is your most important considerat­ion when it comes to position – the more sun, the more flowers.

Regular watering is required while plants are becoming establishe­d and drip trays are recommende­d as they contain the run-off (always a good option with balcony plants). Ensure that the base of the container is raised above the possible water level in the drip tray to avoid root rot. – Informatio­n courtesy of www.lifeisagar­den.co.za

 ??  ?? ROMANTIC TOUCH: Osteosperm­um plants are indigenous to South Africa and characteri­stically, the blooms close at night
ROMANTIC TOUCH: Osteosperm­um plants are indigenous to South Africa and characteri­stically, the blooms close at night
 ??  ?? PRIDE OF PLACE: Pelargoniu­ms offer intense and prolific flowering.
PRIDE OF PLACE: Pelargoniu­ms offer intense and prolific flowering.
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 ??  ?? BOLD: Diascia varieties
BOLD: Diascia varieties
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