Geraniums are beloved garden plants known for their colourful, cup-shaped flowers and delightful fragrance. Whether cascading from hanging baskets, filling flower beds, or adorning window boxes, these versatile plants add a touch of charm to any garden. Easy to grow and available in a variety of colours, Geraniums are a gardener's delight, providing continuous blooms throughout the growing season.
Planting Calendar
Geraniums can be planted in spring and summer.
Prepare
Geraniums come in two main forms, zonal which has rounded leaves with large ball like flowers. Suited for use in garden beds, pots, planters, and containers. The second type is Ivy Geranium named after its ivy shaped leaves. Rather than growing upright like common geraniums, this one cascades. Great for hanging baskets, window boxes, or the edge of a big planter. Geranium flowers range in colour including red, pink, orange, purple and white.
Position
Geraniums prefer a position in full sun, with some protection from strong winds.
Soil
When planted into the ground Geraniums prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers, plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Avoid wetting foliage to reduce the chance of fungal problems.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Protecting
Protect from frosts.
Spraying
Geraniums can be affected by fungal conditions such as rust which can be treated by spraying with Kiwicare Super Sulphur. Caterpillars and other insects can be treated by spraying with BioNeem.
Pruning
Remove faded or wilted flowers to encourage new blooms. Pinch out growing tips for a bushier plant. Remove any yellowing leaves when required.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Expert Tip
Yellowing leaves are a sign of lack or water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best location to plant geraniums?
Geraniums thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. They prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight each day, making them ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers.
How often should I water my geraniums?
Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Avoid wetting foliage to reduce the chance of fungal problems.
How do I prune my geraniums?
Remove faded or wilted flowers to encourage new blooms. Pinch out growing tips for a bushier plant. Remove any yellowing leaves when required.
When is the best time to plant geraniums?
Plant geraniums in spring after the last frost has passed. This gives them plenty of time to establish before the summer heat.
What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Geraniums can also suffer from fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your plants and treat issues promptly with appropriate measures.