Care of Geraniums

Perennial geraniums are flowering plants that can reach 24 inches in height. The plants are grown as annuals in locations that experience freezing winters. The geranium generally blooms flowers in shades of white, red, blue and purple. Geraniums grow outdoors in summer gardens and in patio containers. Potted geraniums can be overwintered indoors until the threat of frost passes. The plants need to be cared for during the winter so that they will bloom in the spring.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You’ll Need

• Organic compost
• All-purpose fertilizer
• Liquid houseplant fertilizer
• Pruning shears
• Mulch
• Flower pot
• Garden soil

1. Choose a location for your geraniums that receives 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The geraniums may need protection from the hot sun in southern areas.
2. Plant the geraniums in an area with well-drained soil. Mix 2 inches of organic compost into the soil before planting.
3. Allow the amended soil to dry between each watering. Water the geraniums once a week. Increase watering in periods of dry weather and reduce watering when significant rainfall occurs.
4. Apply a 10-10-10 all-purpose fertilizer to garden geraniums in the spring. Fertilize container geraniums every two weeks during periods of slow growth. Read the fertilizer package to ensure that you apply it properly to the soil.
5. Prune the geranium in the spring. Cut back the dead stems and prune the plant down to 6 inches in the late summer. Remove the cut foliage from the ground and dispose of it, because if left on the ground it can cause diseases to spread.
6. Apply 2 inches of mulch around the geraniums. The mulch will prevent the growth of weeds and help to retain moisture.
7. Bring potted geraniums indoors before the first frost occurs. Place them in a warm, sunny window. In areas with freezing winters, transplant garden geraniums into large flower pots with drainage holes . Pot the geraniums in fresh potting soil. Water the soil to keep it moist.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid placing the indoor geraniums next to air vents or heat sources, which can damage the plant.