How to Plant Potted Geraniums

Geraniums are one of the most popular potted plants to cultivate for outdoor use. They produce showy clusters of flowers that come in a variety of colors and last nearly all summer. Geraniums make good indoor plants as well, handling dry indoor conditions better than most flowering plants. Here's how to plant potted geraniums for outdoor or indoor display:

Choose the Right Pot

The pot should be large enough to house the plant and provide room for its root system to grow. A geranium needs plenty of space to expand. Make sure the pot has drainage holes, so the soil doesn't become waterlogged.

Select the Right Soil

Geraniums need well-draining soil that's rich in nutrients. Ideal soil should be a blend of potting soil, sand or vermiculite, and compost. You may also want to mix in granular, slow-release fertilizer to keep your plant healthy throughout the growing season.

Plant the Geranium

When planting the geranium, start by filling the bottom of the pot with a layer of rocks or gravel. This will provide additional drainage for the roots. Fill the pot with soil up to the level that the geranium was previously planted at. Make a small hole in the middle of the soil and place the geranium in it. Gently firm the soil around the base of the plant.

Water the Plant

After planting, make sure to water the geranium thoroughly. Do not over-water the plant; the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. In the summertime, water geraniums regularly but avoid getting the foliage wet. This can cause leaves to develop diseases.

Place the Geranium in the Right Location

Geraniums thrive in a sunny environment. They should be placed in an area that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. For indoor plants, place them near a south or west-facing window.

Fertilize the Plant

Geraniums thrive with regular fertilizing. In the spring, use a 10-10-10 fertilizer according to package instructions. This will promote healthy growth and encourage your plant to produce more flowers. Fertilize your plant every four weeks during the growing season.

Summary

Geraniums are easy-to-care-for potted plants that provide beautiful flowers all summer long. Ensure that you have the correct pot and soil for planting purposes, and that you are providing the right amount of sunshine, water, and fertilizer. With a little attention, your potted geranium will be a gorgeous addition to your outdoor or indoor garden.