how to care for a geranium

With their vibrant clusters of flowers and uniquely scented leaves, geraniums are a beloved favorite for windowsills, patios, and garden beds. They offer a spectacular show of color from spring straight through to fall, asking for very little in return. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant journey, learning how to care for a geranium is a simple and rewarding process. A little know-how is all it takes to keep these cheerful plants thriving season after season.

The Simple Guide on How to Care for a Geranium

The key to happy geraniums lies in mimicking their preferred conditions: plenty of sun and soil that isn’t too wet. These plants are surprisingly drought-tolerant, so when in doubt, it’s better to underwater than overwater. Aim to water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. A thorough soak, allowing excess water to drain freely from the pot’s bottom, is much better than frequent, light sprinklings.

Giving Your Geranium the Right Light and Food

For the most abundant blooms, place your geranium where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. An east or south-facing spot is often ideal. While they can manage in partial shade, you’ll notice fewer flowers. To fuel all that growth and color, feed your plant regularly during its active growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied every two to four weeks will provide the necessary nutrients for continuous flowering.

Encouraging More Blooms with a Simple Snip

One of the easiest ways to keep your geranium looking its best is a practice called deadheading. This simply means removing the spent, wilted flower clusters. Use your fingers or a clean pair of scissors to snap or cut the old flower stalk back to the main stem. This tidies up the plant’s appearance and, more importantly, encourages it to put its energy into producing new buds instead of setting seed.

Keeping Your Plant Cozy Through Winter

If you have a special geranium you’d like to save from year to year, you can easily overwinter it indoors. Before the first frost, bring the pot inside to a bright, cool location. Water it very sparingly throughout the winter, just enough to keep the stems from shriveling. The plant may look a bit leggy, but come spring, you can trim it back, resume regular watering and feeding, and watch it burst back into growth.

With their resilience and long-lasting beauty, geraniums are wonderfully low-maintenance companions. By providing ample sunshine, careful watering, and a little occasional grooming, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display that brightens your home and garden for many months.