How to Grow Geraniums in Containers
Pelargonium x hortorum
Geraniums have graced window boxes and patios for generations - their cheerful blooms and aromatic foliage evoke classic summer gardens. These remarkably tough plants tolerate drought, poor soil, and neglect while producing abundant flowers in reds, pinks, whites, and more. Easy to overwinter and propagate, one geranium can become a lifetime collection.
Best Geranium Types for Containers
Zonal Geraniums
The classic geranium with round leaves often marked with darker zones. Upright growth, large flower clusters. Red is iconic but pink, white, salmon, and bicolors available. Best for: window boxes, upright containers, traditional displays.
Ivy Geraniums
Trailing habit with ivy-shaped leaves. Cascades beautifully from hanging baskets and over container edges. Less heat-tolerant than zonals. Best for: hanging baskets, window boxes, elevated containers.
Regal (Martha Washington)
Largest, most showy flowers with ruffled petals. Cool-season preference - struggles in heat. Often bicolored or marked. Best for: cool climates, spring displays, gift plants.
Scented Geraniums
Grown for aromatic foliage - rose, lemon, mint, chocolate, and more. Smaller flowers. Culinary and craft uses. Best for: fragrance, cooking, potpourri, unique interest.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing Leaves
Usually overwatering. Let soil dry between waterings. Check drainage. Yellow lower leaves on otherwise healthy plants are normal aging.
No Flowers, Lots of Leaves
Too much nitrogen or not enough sun. Use bloom-boosting fertilizer. Ensure 6+ hours direct sun. Pinch tips to encourage branching.
Leggy, Sparse Growth
Insufficient light. Move to sunnier location. Pinch stems to encourage bushier habit. May need to restart from cuttings if severely leggy.
Edema (Corky Bumps on Leaves)
Water absorption exceeds transpiration - common in cool, humid conditions. Not fatal. Improve air circulation and avoid overwatering in cool weather.
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Dark spots with yellow halos. Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, water at soil level. Avoid overhead watering. Destroy severely infected plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between zonal and ivy geraniums?
Zonal geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum) are upright with round leaves often showing a dark 'zone' pattern. Ivy geraniums (P. peltatum) trail with ivy-shaped leaves - perfect for hanging baskets. Regal/Martha Washington types have larger flowers but are less heat-tolerant. Choose based on your display needs.
How do I overwinter geraniums?
Several methods work: 1) Bring containers indoors to a sunny, cool window (50-60F ideal). 2) Take cuttings in fall for new plants. 3) Dig, shake off soil, hang upside down in cool, dark place - replant in spring. Method 3 sounds crazy but works! Reduce watering for indoor plants.
Why are my geranium leaves turning yellow?
Yellow lower leaves are normal as plants age. Widespread yellowing indicates overwatering (most common), nutrient deficiency, or too little light. Check that drainage is working. Let soil dry between waterings. Feed with balanced fertilizer monthly.
Should I deadhead geraniums?
Yes! Deadheading significantly improves appearance and extends blooming. Remove entire flower stem at the base once blooms fade - don't just pull off petals. The stems become unsightly brown sticks if left. Weekly deadheading keeps plants tidy and productive.
Why won't my geraniums bloom?
Insufficient light is the main cause - geraniums need 6+ hours of sun. Too much nitrogen fertilizer promotes leaves over flowers. Overcrowding and pot-bound roots also reduce blooming. Move to sunnier spot, use bloom-boosting fertilizer, and repot if roots are circling.
Can geraniums take full hot sun?
Zonal geraniums handle heat well and prefer full sun. Ivy types appreciate afternoon shade in hot climates. All geraniums benefit from adequate water in heat but tolerate drought better than most annuals. Hot, humid climates can cause disease problems - ensure good airflow.
How do I take geranium cuttings?
Take 3-4 inch stem cuttings just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves. Let cut end dry for a few hours (optional but reduces rot). Insert in moist potting mix or water. Roots form in 2-4 weeks. Best done in spring or fall. Incredibly easy - geraniums root readily.
What are scented geraniums?
Scented geraniums (Pelargonium species) have aromatic foliage in rose, lemon, mint, chocolate, and many other scents. Flowers are smaller than zonal types. Grown primarily for fragrance and culinary use. Leaves can flavor sugar, baked goods, and teas. Easy to grow in containers.
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