The Scandinavian Gardening Trend of Pelargonsjuka
The Scandinavian region boasts a unique and rich tapestry of lifestyle concepts that have resonated globally through the reach of arts and culture. From the warm embrace of “hygge” to the balanced allure of “lagom,” these design philosophies have shaped how millions of people across the world approach life, wellness, and even interior décor.
Now, another trend is bubbling over from the Nordic region, gaining traction thanks to celebrities like the Vicar of Dibley herself, Dawn French: pelargonsjuka. This is a gardening trend that stems from the Swedish people’s love of geraniums (known as pelargoniums in Sweden) and it’s taken the green-fingered world by storm.
Today, we’ll dive deep into the heart of this incredibly cheerful trend, unearthing its philosophy, plant varieties, planting techniques, and care.
Philosophy: A Remedy for the Long Nordic Winters
At its core, Pelargonsjuka is a method devised to combat the extensive, bleak Scandinavian winters and we just so happen to have some pretty bleak winters in the UK. The idea is to take the most vibrant plants and help them grow to help us all remember how beautiful nature can be. These green plants, adorned with vivacious coloured leaves, aren’t just pretty either as for many Scandinavians, they act as kind of nostalgic emblem.
Plant Varieties: A Palette of Colours and Textures
Pelargoniums are the stars of this trend, as the name suggests, and the sheer variety of shades and colours they boast means they harmonise quite naturally with so many other design styles, both interior and exterior. Most crucially, their evergreen nature means they’re in bloom all year, given the right conditions. For those looking to cultivate even more diversity into their collections, other perennial varieties of flowers such as sweet peas can also be integrated, offering a unique mélange of different colours and fragrances.
How to Plant Them: Embracing Versatility
By their nature, pelargoniums are plants that require a decent amount of water, whatever the season. That means whatever container you keep them in must facilitate ample drainage. A container versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor planting would be ideal here, as it should allow you to seamlessly transition the plants from your window box to the garden based on weather conditions.
Care: Minimalistic Yet Essential
While they need water, pelargoniums are otherwise relatively low-maintenance plants, making them an ideal choice for novices or those who don’t have much free time. These plants thrive with an abundance of sunlight, regular watering, and a touch of fertiliser come spring. To maintain their fresh appearance, meanwhile, ensure that faded blooms are deadheaded. And as the cold sets in, get them indoors as soon as possible to shield them from the frost.
Pelargonsjuka is so popular because it offers a fresh perspective on how we interact with our plants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just dabbling in the verdant arts, this is a trend which promises beauty, nostalgia, and a liberal dash of Scandinavian charm.