What to Plant in Pots with Geraniums

Geraniums are a popular flower to plant in pots due to their vibrant colors and long blooming season. Choosing the right plants to pair with geraniums in a pot can enhance the beauty of the display and add a variety of textures and heights. Here are some options to consider when planting geraniums in a pot:

Foliage Plants

Foliage plants can serve as a backdrop to the geraniums or as a contrasting texture. Plants with silver or gray foliage, such as lamb's ear or dusty miller, can complement the bold colors of geraniums. Plants with variegated leaves, such as hostas or heucheras, can add additional interest and a pop of color. Ferns are a classic choice for pairing with geraniums in pots due to their delicate leaves and soft texture.

Trailing Plants

Trailing plants can spill over the edge of the pot and provide a cascading effect. Ivy is a popular choice for its graceful appearance, but other options include sweet potato vines, creeping Jenny or lobelia. These trailing plants add movement and a dynamic element to the pot, making it look more lush and full.

Herbs

Herbs are another option to plant in pots with geraniums. Not only do they add fragrance and texture, but they can also be harvested and used in the kitchen. Rosemary, thyme, and lavender are all excellent choices to plant in pots with geraniums. These herbs dry well and can be used to add flavor to meats, soups, and stews.

Bulbs

Bulbs can add height and interest to a pot with geraniums. Daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths can be planted in the fall and bloom in the spring, adding a seasonal element to the display. After blooming, the bulbs can be removed or left to die back naturally. Crocuses and snowdrops are also options to consider for a smaller bulb to plant in pots with geraniums.

Care Tips

When planting a pot with geraniums and other plants, be sure they require similar watering and light conditions. All the plants in the pot should have a similar growth rate and root requirements to prevent one plant from overpowering the others. Make sure to choose a pot with proper drainage and use a well-draining soil mix. Water the pot deeply and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Pinch back the geraniums to encourage bushier growth and deadhead the spent blooms to extend the blooming season.

Overall, planting a pot with geraniums and complementary plants can result in a beautiful and dynamic display that lasts throughout the growing season. Be creative and have fun experimenting with different combinations of foliage, trailing plants, herbs, and bulbs to find the perfect pairing for your geraniums.