Unusual & Rapid Deterioration Of Geraniums

Question

i have 4 indoor geraniums. They grew massive, with leaves as big a my hand with outstretched fingers, blooms bigger than a softball. I’ve had them for 3 years. “Stretch” started developing limp yellow leaves about 4 weeks ago. They eventually dry out and fall off. I’ve been VERY careful about not over or under watering. Stretch’s condition has progressed from a couple leaves a day to about 15 a day. Thinking she was root bound in a 9″ pot, I transplanted her into a 16 3/4″ pot.. Shocking discovery that a plant 3′ wide x 2 1/2′ tall hadonly a 8″ dia. root ball. I used good quality potting soil , and was gentle. She continues to die. Meanwhile my healthiest plant “Big Germanium” has SUDDENLY (overnight) developed a DIFFERENT problem. The stem end of her petioles shrank drastically to thread size. There is no yellowing or sign of blackleg. I’ve given both plants a deep antifungal soil drench (Captan) in the hope they can be saved.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, your photos did not come through. I am unable to see the damage.

There are a number of pathogens that can show themselves, suddenly, unfortunately. It sounds like you are doing the proper thing, though. If fungicides and repotting fail, then it will be necessary to start fresh. That'll mean a new container, new soil, new plants, and everything!

Here are some common diseases that you can compare with, in the meantime:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/geranium/common-geranium-diseases.htm