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Home » How to » Grow Plants » How to grow Geranium Care
Geraniums, with their vivid blooms and easy-going nature, have become a staple in gardens worldwide. Originating from the warm climes of South Africa, these plants have adapted beautifully to various environments, making them a favorite among garden enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, geraniums offer a delightful and rewarding experience.
How to grow Geranium Care
To care for geraniums, plant in well-drained soil with full sunlight. Water moderately, letting the soil partially dry. Deadhead spent blooms and prune for shape. In the UK climate, geraniums thrive with regular care, providing continuous blooms and enhancing the beauty of your garden.
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Geranium Basics: A Quick Overview
Botanical Name: Pelargonium x hortorum
Height and Spread: 1 to 3 feet
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Rich, well-drained
Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11 (as perennials)
Choosing the Right Geranium
When selecting geraniums, look for healthy, robust plants. The variety you choose, whether it’s the popular zonal geraniums known for their colorful leaf zones or the trailing ivy-leafed geraniums, will dictate your care approach.
Planting Geraniums
The best way to start is with transplants, readily available in garden centers. Plant them in spring, post the last frost, spacing them about 8 to 12 inches apart. Mulching is recommended to retain moisture.
Geranium Light Requirements
Geraniums flourish in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for 4 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you’re growing them indoors, ensure they receive ample light for blooming.
Watering Needs
Water your geraniums when the top inch of soil feels dry. They prefer dry soil over wet, so avoid overwatering. In hot weather, outdoor potted plants may need daily watering.
Soil and Fertilization
Geraniums thrive in well-draining soil. A mix of indoor potting soil, peat, and perlite works wonders. Fertilize every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning and Maintenance
Geraniums require minimal maintenance. Regular deadheading keeps them blooming, and occasional pruning encourages branching. Avoid overwatering to prevent rot and mold, especially in humid conditions.
Common Pests and Diseases
Watch out for aphids, whiteflies, and mites. Maintain good airflow around the plants and keep the foliage dry to prevent infestations.
Geranium Propagation
From Cuttings
Cuttings are the easiest way to propagate geraniums. In warm climates, take cuttings in early summer. In cooler areas, do this in late summer or early fall and root them indoors for spring.
From Seed
Geraniums can also be grown from seed, but they mature slowly. Start them 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date.
Overwintering Geraniums
To save your geraniums for the next season, overwinter them by taking cuttings or bringing them indoors before the first frost. Reduce watering and place them in a cool spot with bright light.
Types of Geraniums
- Zonal Geraniums: Known for their leaf color zones and vibrant flowers.
- Ivy-leafed Geraniums: Characterized by their trailing growth and ivy-like leaves.
- Scented-leaf Geraniums: Offer a variety of fragrances like rose, apple, and peppermint.
- Regal Geraniums: Often used as houseplants due to their showy flowers.
Geranium Care Table
Aspect | Details |
Planting Time | Spring, after the last frost |
Spacing | 8 to 12 inches apart |
Sunlight | Full sun to partial shade |
Watering | When top 1-2 inches of soil is dry |
Soil Type | Well-draining mix of soil, peat, and perlite |
Fertilization | Every 4-6 weeks during growing season |
Pruning | Regular deadheading and occasional pinching |
Common Pests | Aphids, whiteflies, mites |
Troubleshooting Common Geranium Issues
Geraniums are generally hardy, but they can encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to tackle them:
Yellowing Leaves
- Cause: Over-watering or poor drainage.
- Solution: Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency.
Leggy Growth
- Cause: Insufficient light.
- Solution: Move to a sunnier spot or provide more light.
No Blooms
- Cause: Too much nitrogen or lack of sunlight.
- Solution: Adjust fertilization and ensure adequate sunlight.
Designing with Geraniums
Geraniums are versatile and can be used in various garden designs. Here are some ideas:
In Garden Beds
- Create a colorful border along pathways.
- Mix with other annuals for a vibrant display.
In Containers
- Use trailing varieties for hanging baskets.
- Combine with other plants for a multi-textured look.
Geranium Care Table: Advanced Tips
Issue | Cause | Solution |
Yellow Leaves | Over-watering | Improve drainage, reduce watering |
Leggy Growth | Low Light | Increase sunlight exposure |
No Blooms | Excess Nitrogen | Adjust fertilization |
Frequently Asked Questions
In milder climates, some geraniums can survive winter outdoors. However, in colder regions, it’s best to overwinter them indoors.
Fertilize every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Yes, geraniums can grow indoors. Ensure they receive enough light and maintain a consistent watering schedule.
Geranium Varieties Table
Type | Description | Ideal Use |
Zonal | Colorful leaf zones, vibrant flowers | Beds, containers |
Ivy-leafed | Trailing growth, ivy-like leaves | Hanging baskets |
Scented-leaf | Aromatic leaves, subtle flowers | Aromatic gardens |
Regal | Showy flowers, used as houseplants | Indoor displays |

Eleanor is the quintessential spirit of the British gardener — passionate, dedicated, and endlessly curious about the natural world. Born and raised amidst the verdant landscapes of the Cotswolds, she developed an early love for the outdoors, often spending hours in the family garden with her hands buried in the soil, nurturing every type of plant she could find.