How to Grow Geraniums

Geraniums come in a variety of colors, styles and scents. The sturdy plants and colorful flowers are ideal for landscapes, hanging baskets or as container plants for patios and decks. Geraniums typically bloom in late spring when temperatures are moderate and there is no danger of frost until early fall.  

To promote growth of established plants or new cuttings, a few simples steps are all that is needed to keep plants healthy and blooming.

• Plant rooted geraniums or seedlings in the garden in late spring in an area that receives sunlight.


• Plant flowers in soil that promotes good drainage and is well-aerated.


• Do not plant the flowers too deep as this can cause root rot.


• Provide fertilizer to plants per individual product instructions.


• Space plants appropriately to help prevent disease.


• Periodically check for pests, disease or wilting.


• Remove unhealthy flowers or stems as necessary.


• Completely remove infected plants from garden or containers to prevent infection to healthy plants.


• Take cuttings from healthy plants in late August or early September for propagation of a new crop of geraniums. Place in individual pots in an appropriate potting medium, and keep them in a sunny window location until roots begin to grow. Repot the rooted plants into larger containers until roots are well established. Once the roots are strong and secure, plants can be placed into the garden in a sunny location with proper soil conditions once the weather is safe enough for spring planting.


• To ensure new plants for the following year, remove the established geraniums from the garden. Trim and place into individual pots to be kept indoors in a sun-filled location during winter months.