Summary:Discover the cultivation techniques, environmental requirements, propagation methods, pest control, and harvesting practices for Geranium plants. Explore how this aromatic plant is a key ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics, making it economically significant in the beauty industry.
Description
Geranium, scientifically known as *Geranium graveolens*, is a bushy aromatic plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. Native to the Cape province of South Africa, this versatile plant is known for both its ornamental beauty and its economic value, particularly in the cosmetic industry. The leaves, which are the primary economic part of the plant, change colors from vibrant green when young to a rich brown as they mature. The plant showcases an umbellate inflorescence that adds to its aesthetic appeal. One of the key uses of geranium is its essential oil, which is a highly sought-after ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics. The fragrant oil is also utilized in scenting soaps and face powders, making geranium a valuable crop for those involved in the beauty and personal care sectors. Its aromatic properties and versatility have led to its popularity across various applications. To thrive, geraniums prefer specific soil conditions, particularly red lateritic soil. However, they can also grow in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 8. Successfully cultivating geranium requires specific climatic conditions; the plants flourish at altitudes between 1000 to 2000 meters above mean sea level (MSL), with an annual rainfall of 100-150 centimeters. A temperature range of 5-23ºC is optimal for achieving high yields, making it essential for cultivators to consider these environmental factors. Propagating geraniums typically involves a vegetative method, with herbaceous stem cuttings being the preferred technique. Cuttings around 20 centimeters long, each containing 8-10 nodes, are taken and treated with indolebutyric acid (IBA) to encourage root development. After approximately 60 days, the cuttings are ready for transplanting, providing a relatively efficient means of propagation. For successful growth, geranium plants benefit from well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM), with a recommended application of 10 kg per hectare as a nutrient source. Additionally, a basal application of 35 kg each of single super phosphate (SSP) and muriate of potash (MOP) is suggested, followed by a subsequent nitrogen dose two months later. To enhance herbage quality, supplementary applications of zinc sulfate and boron are also recommended. Despite its resilience, geraniums can be affected by certain pests and diseases. Leaf blight caused by *Alternaria alternata* is notable, and treatment can include using a 0.03% benlate solution. Additionally, intercropping with marigold plants has been identified as a beneficial practice to mitigate this issue. Root knot nematodes, mainly *Meloidogyne incognita*, can pose another threat; control measures include applying aldicarb at a dosage of 20 kg per hectare. Harvesting geranium is a meticulous process, taking place when the leaves display a light green coloration. The optimal technique involves cutting the terminal ends of shoots that comprise 6-12 leaves. With the capacity for up to three harvests per year, a well-maintained plantation of approximately 25,000 plants per hectare can yield around 15 kg of essential oil. The freshly harvested terminal shoots are placed near a still for 12-24 hours before the oil extraction process, which employs steam distillation. This careful handling ensures optimal quality of the oil produced, reinforcing the geranium’s esteemed status in the world of fragrances. Through these practices, geranium continues to be a beloved and economically significant plant in the realm of aromatherapy and cosmetic applications.
