How to Plant Geranium in a Pot

Geraniums are versatile plants that can bloom for a long period of time. They are easy to grow and make excellent container plants. If you plan to grow geraniums in a pot, follow these simple steps:

Container and Soil

You need to choose the right sized container to plant geraniums. Choose a pot that has a diameter of about 6-8 inches. The container should have drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to drain off. Geraniums prefer well-drained soil, so select a potting mix that provides good drainage. You can buy a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.

Planting

Fill the pot with the potting mix to about three-quarters full. Make sure that the container is on a level surface before planting. Remove the geranium from its original pot, and loosen the roots gently. Place the plant in the center of the container, and fill the pot with soil, tamping it gently around the roots. Leave a gap of about an inch between the soil level and the rim of the container. Water the geranium well, and let the water drain off.

Light and Temperature

Geraniums need at least six hours of sunlight every day to bloom. Place the container in a spot that receives maximum sunlight, such as a south-facing window or balcony. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to move the container to a spot with some shade during the hottest part of the day. Geraniums prefer temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing the plant to temperature extremes.

Watering and Fertilizing

Geraniums need regular watering to thrive but avoid over-watering. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water deeply until water comes out of the drainage holes at the bottom. Do not let the plant sit in water for an extended period as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant every month with a balanced fertilizer, beginning in spring and continuing through summer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dosage.

Deadheading and Pruning

Deadheading is the practice of removing spent blooms from the plant. This encourages the plant to produce new blooms. Pinch off the blooms at the base of the stem or use sharp scissors to cut them off. You can also trim the plant for a more compact shape. Prune back the stems after the first bloom flush ends in midsummer. Cut back about one-third of the stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.

Pest and Disease Control

Geraniums are relatively pest-free, but they can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can lead to pest infestations. Geraniums are also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. Improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid watering the plant from above to prevent these diseases.

With proper care, geraniums can bloom for a long period and add a splash of color to your home or garden. Follow these simple steps to plant geraniums in a pot and enjoy their beauty year-round.