Why Are My Geraniums Not Blooming?

Geraniums grow indoors and out. They come in a variety of colors and are easy to grow, though gardeners sometimes report problems getting geraniums to bloom. But with proper care, geraniums become a reliable plant in the home garden with steady blooms starting in late spring until the first frost.

Fertilize

• Fertilize your geraniums properly to encourage blooming; they will not produce robust blooms if they’re over-fertilized. Use a dry or water-soluble fertilizer, but not both to avoid over-feeding. Place 2 tsp. of water-soluble 20-20-20 fertilizer in a gallon jug filled with water and apply it to your geraniums every three weeks.

Plant in a Sunny Area

• Plant your geraniums in a sunny spot to promote healthy blooms — shaded areas prevent flowering and produce leggy geraniums. A spot that gets at least 8 hours of sun daily encourages blooming.

Water

• Proper hydration is a must for healthy geraniums. Thoroughly water your geraniums but let the soil dry between watering. While it’s important to allow the soil to dry, it’s also important to water your geraniums before they begin to wilt. Correct watering means the difference between beautiful blooms or wilting leaves.

Remove Dead Flowers

• Periodically remove dead flowers or leaves so nutrients are not diverted from younger flowers. Not only do dead blooms and leaves detract from the plant’s appearance, they also attract a fungus that attack the plant, causing its leaves and young flower buds to die.

Allow Water to Drain

• If you plant your geraniums in pots, ensure the pots have drain holes that allow water to escape. If the water sits in the container, it causes root rot, which can kill the plant. You’ll also have to water frequently because the sun quickly heats the pot’s soil.