Pelargonium (Geranium)

Why Should I Grow Geranium?

There are several reasons to grow Geranium plants in your garden or home:

Vibrant, colorful flowers: They produce stunning blooms in a wide range of colors, adding a vibrant and eye-catching display to your garden or containers.

Long blooming period: Most plants bloom from spring to fall, providing a long season of color and interest in your garden.

Versatility: Geranium plants can be grown in various settings, including containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, and garden beds. They work well as border plants, in rock gardens, and in mixed plantings with other sun-loving plants.

Fragrant foliage: Many species have aromatic leaves, which can add a pleasant scent to your garden or home when touched or crushed.

Drought-tolerance: Once established, many Pelargonium species are drought-tolerant, making them suitable for low-water gardens or xeriscaping.

Pest resistance: The strong scent deters deer and rabbits, making them a good choice for gardens prone to these pests.

Easy to grow and maintain: Geraniums are generally easy to care for, requiring only well-draining soil, regular watering, and occasional feeding. They can be propagated by stem cuttings, making it easy to expand your collection or share with friends and family.

Overall, these plants offer a combination of beauty, versatility, and low maintenance that makes them an excellent addition to any garden or home.

Pelargonium versus Geranium: What is the Difference?

Pelargonium and Geranium are two distinct genera within the Geraniaceae family, often confused due to their similar appearance. Pelargoniums, native to South Africa, have showier flowers, rounded leaves, and are tender perennials. Geraniums, native to temperate regions, have smaller flowers, lobed leaves, and are hardy perennials. They differ in origin, flower characteristics, and growing requirements.

Which Geranium for my Garden or Balcony?

Zonal Geranium: These plants have round zones or patterns in the center of the leaves and come in a variety of colors. They are mostly bush-type plants and are commonly used in borders or containers and as indoor plants.

Ivy-Leaved Geranium: They have trailing stems and ivy-like leaves. They are ideal for growing in hanging baskets, window boxes, or as trailing plants in garden beds. They are also suitable for training as a climber on trellises or walls.

Regal Geranium: These are large bush-type floriferous evergreen plants grown primarily for the beauty of their flowers. The flowers are large, typically double or semi-double, and have ruffled petals, giving them a frilly, almost rose-like appearance. They are often grown as houseplants or used as bedding plants in formal gardens.

Scented-Leaved Geranium: These are shrubby evergreen perennials often grown for their fragrance. When bruised or touched, the leaves emit a variety of scents, including rose, lemon, and mint. Scented geranium is used in potpourri or to flavor desserts.

Angel Geranium: They are mostly upright bush-type plants with small serrated leaves and smaller flowers. They also make a great addition to container gardens or as a border plant in garden beds.

Landscaping with Geranium Flowers

Designing a garden with Geranium flowers can bring life and color to your outdoor space. Here are some ideas to incorporate these beautiful plants into your garden design:

Containers and hanging baskets: These plants thrive in containers and hanging baskets. Use a variety of colors and types, such as zonal, ivy, or scented-leaf varieties, to create eye-catching arrangements. Cluster pots together or place them around seating areas and entrances to create focal points.

Garden borders: Plant Geranium flowers along garden borders or walkways, where their vibrant colors and attractive foliage will frame your garden and create visual interest. Mix different colors and varieties, or plant a single type for a more uniform look.

Mixed plantings: Combine them with other sun-loving plants that have similar water and soil requirements, such as lavender or salvia. This will create a diverse and visually appealing garden bed.

Rock gardens: Plant Geraniums in rock gardens or on slopes, where their drought tolerance and ability to grow in well-draining soil will be an advantage. They can be used as ground cover or planted alongside other drought-tolerant plants.

Vertical gardening: Use ivy-leaf varieties for vertical gardening applications, such as green walls or trellises. Their trailing habit and cascading blooms will add a touch of beauty to your vertical space.

Window boxes: Plant them in window boxes to bring color and life to your home’s exterior. Mix and match different colors, types, and textures for a dynamic display.

Scented garden: Incorporate scented-leaf Geranium in a sensory or fragrance garden. Plant them near walkways or seating areas, where their delightful fragrance can be appreciated when the leaves are brushed against or crushed.

When designing your garden, consider factors such as sun exposure, soil type, and water requirements. Geranium prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade, so choose locations that meet these conditions. Ensure that you provide enough space for each plant to grow and spread, and keep in mind their mature height and spread.

Companion Plants

Companion planting with Geranium can enhance your garden’s overall appearance and health. When selecting companion plants, consider those with similar growing conditions and characteristics. Here are some excellent companion plants:

Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Lavender’s silvery foliage and fragrant flowers complement the colorful blooms of geraniums. Both plants prefer well-draining soil and full sun.

Salvia (Salvia spp.): Salvia’s spiky flowers create a striking contrast with the rounded clusters of Pelargonium blooms. Both plants are drought-tolerant and thrive in sunny locations.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Rosemary’s evergreen, needle-like foliage and blue flowers add texture and color to the garden, contrasting well with Geraniums. Both plants enjoy similar growing conditions.

Marigold (Tagetes spp.): Marigolds offer bright, cheerful flowers that pair well with Geraniums. Additionally, marigolds can help repel certain pests, providing a natural form of pest control.

Alyssum (Lobularia maritima): Sweet alyssum’s low-growing, mounding habit and delicate white or purple flowers create a lovely contrast with Geraniums. Both plants appreciate well-draining soil and full sun.

Verbena (Verbena spp.): Verbena’s clusters of small flowers complement the larger blooms of Geraniums. Both plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Petunia (Petunia spp.): Petunias offer a wide range of colors and forms, making them an excellent choice for pairing with Geraniums. Both plants thrive in sunny locations and well-draining soil.

Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera spp.): Gerbera daisies add bold, bright colors to the garden, contrasting nicely with Geraniums. Both plants enjoy similar growing conditions, including well-draining soil and full sun.

Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens): Heliotrope’s clusters of fragrant, deep purple flowers provide a stunning contrast to Geraniums. Both plants prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.

Sedum (Sedum spp.): Sedum’s succulent foliage and low-growing habit make it an excellent companion. Both plants are drought-tolerant and require well-draining soil and sun exposure.

Geranium repels leafhoppers and Japanese beetles. It is an excellent companion plant for Beet, Corn, Dahlia, Grape Vine, and Roses.

Remember to consider factors such as sun exposure, soil type, and water requirements when selecting companion plants for your plants.

Growing Tips

Geraniums are popular flowering plants that can thrive both indoors and outdoors with proper care. Here are some essential growing tips for healthy and vibrant plants:

Sunlight: Geraniums love sunlight and need at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. Ensure they are planted in an area that receives adequate sunlight, or place indoor plants near a bright window.

Soil: Geranium prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline to neutral soil. You can use a high-quality potting mix for container-grown plants or amend garden soil with organic matter to improve drainage.

Watering: Geraniums are somewhat drought-tolerant, but they still require regular watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and then water deeply. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing: To promote healthy growth and abundant flowering, fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the package instructions for the correct application rate.

Pruning: Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. In addition, pinch back new growth to promote bushiness and maintain the desired shape. Prune back leggy or overgrown plants in late winter or early spring.

Pests and diseases: Monitor your plants for common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. If you notice an infestation, treat the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent diseases, provide adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Overwintering: If you live in a region with cold winters, bring container-grown Geranium indoors before the first frost. Place them in a bright, cool location (around 50-60°F or 10-15°C), and water sparingly during the winter months.

Propagation: Geranium can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) cuttings in late summer or early fall, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a bright, warm location until they develop roots.

By following these growing tips, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy plants in your garden or home throughout the growing season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my geranium leaves turning yellow

There are several reasons why geranium leaves might turn yellow:

Overwatering: Geraniums prefer well-draining soil and don’t like to sit in water. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and leaves to yellow. Make sure to let the soil dry out between waterings.

Underwatering: If the soil becomes too dry, geraniums may lose moisture, causing the leaves to turn yellow. Regularly check the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Nutrient deficiency: A lack of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, can cause yellowing leaves. Use a balanced fertilizer to feed your geraniums regularly during the growing season.

Poor drainage: Ensure that your geraniums are planted in well-draining soil or containers with drainage holes. Poor drainage can lead to root rot and yellow leaves.

Pests or diseases: Insects like aphids or diseases such as bacterial leaf blight can cause yellowing leaves. Inspect your geraniums for signs of infestation and treat them with insecticidal soap or fungicides if necessary.

To address yellow leaves, determine the cause and adjust your care routine accordingly, whether that means changing your watering habits, improving soil drainage, or addressing pest or disease issues.

What attacks geraniums?

Geraniums can be attacked by several pests and diseases, which can negatively impact their growth and overall health. Some common issues include:

Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause leaves to curl, distort, or turn yellow. They may also transmit diseases. Control aphids by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or releasing beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny, white, winged insects that feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and weaken. Manage whiteflies with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or sticky traps.

Spider mites: These microscopic pests suck plant sap, causing stippling, yellowing, and browning of leaves. Control spider mites with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by increasing humidity around the plants.

Fungal diseases: Geraniums can be affected by several fungal diseases like botrytis blight. These diseases can cause yellowing, wilting, or browning of leaves. To prevent and manage fungal diseases, maintain good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides if necessary.

Bacterial diseases: Bacterial diseases such as bacterial blight can cause yellowing, wilting, or blackening of leaves. Remove infected plants and avoid overhead watering to minimize the spread of bacterial diseases.