Can You Plant Potted Geraniums Outside?

Potted geraniums are a common sight in many homes, but many people are unsure whether they can be planted outdoors. The answer is yes—you can plant potted geraniums outside, provided you take the right precautions and care for them properly. Here's what you need to know.

Choosing a Location

Before planting your potted geraniums outside, you need to choose the right location. Geraniums require plenty of sunlight, so choose an area that gets at least six hours of direct sun per day. They also need good drainage, so avoid planting them in areas prone to standing water. Finally, be sure to choose an area protected from strong winds, which can damage the plants.

Preparing the Soil

Geraniums grow best in soil that is well-drained and fertile. If your outdoor soil is heavy or doesn't drain well, improve it by adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss. Mix the organic matter into the soil to a depth of about 6 inches. Geraniums prefer soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, so test your soil and adjust its pH if necessary.

Transplanting the Geraniums

To plant your potted geraniums outside, start by preparing the planting holes. Dig holes that are slightly larger than the pots, and space them about 12 inches apart. Carefully remove the plants from their pots, taking care not to damage the roots. Gently loosen any tangled roots and place the plants in the holes, ensuring that the tops of the root balls are level with the surrounding soil. Fill in any gaps with soil and water the plants well.

Caring for Outdoor Geraniums

Geraniums require regular care to thrive outside. Water them regularly, ensuring that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay. Feed the plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage the growth of new blooms. Finally, be on the lookout for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can damage outdoor geraniums.

Bringing Geraniums Indoors for Winter

If you live in an area with cold winters, your outdoor geraniums won't survive the season. To save them, you can bring them indoors to a sunny spot. Before the first frost, prune the plants back by about 1/3 to encourage bushy growth. Dig up the plants carefully, taking care not to damage the roots, and repot them in fresh soil. Water the plants well, and place them in a sunny spot indoors. Reduce watering during the winter months, and resume regular watering when new growth appears in the spring.

In conclusion, potted geraniums can be planted outside with the right preparation and care. Choose a sunny, well-drained location and improve the soil if necessary. Transplant the plants carefully, and provide regular care to help them thrive. With a little effort, your potted geraniums can add color and beauty to your outdoor space for many seasons to come.