How to Grow Geranium
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Geranium
Pelargonium × hortorum
flowerGeraniums are popular ornamental flowering plants known for their vibrant clusters of red, pink, white, or purple flowers and attractive, sometimes fragrant foliage. They are versatile plants suitable for beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets. These tender perennials are typically grown as annuals in cooler climates and are prized for their long blooming season and low maintenance requirements.
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Example Geranium timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Geranium
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Geranium blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Geranium dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11 as perennials; grown as annuals in zones 3-9
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Seedling
3-4 weeksYoung plants with 2-4 true leaves, developing root systems and initial foliage
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Provide bright light. Transplant to larger containers when 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlants develop bushy foliage with multiple stems and increasing leaf size; no flowers yet
Pinch growing tips when 6 inches tall to encourage bushier growth. Water regularly but allow drying between waterings. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer.
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at branch tips; tight clusters of unopened flowers begin to appear
Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Switch to lower nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering. Ensure adequate sunlight.
Flowering
8-16 weeks or until frostVibrant flower clusters (umbels) open in succession; continuous blooming throughout the season
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Water consistently. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with flowering plant fertilizer. Provide good air circulation to prevent disease.
Late Season/Dormancy
Variable based on climateIn warm climates, flowering continues; in cool climates, growth slows as temperatures drop
In zones 3-9, reduce watering and bring indoors before frost or treat as annual. In zones 10-11, reduce fertilizer and water as growth naturally slows.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Increase humidity.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Use rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs for individual insects.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Use neem oil for heavy infestations.
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Spray with fungicide if needed.
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and
(fungal/bacterial)
Remove infected leaves; improve drainage and air circulation. Water at soil level only.
Uses
Scented Geranium Beverages & Flavoring
CulinaryScented geranium varieties (rose, lemon, apple) have fragrant leaves used to flavor teas, beverages, desserts, and baked goods. The leaves impart delicate floral notes without being overpowering. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalGeranium species have been used in traditional medicine for respiratory support, skin health, and inflammation. Rose geranium essential oil is used in aromatherapy for its calming and balancing properties. [source]
Natural Fragrance & Air Freshening
HouseholdScented geranium leaves can be dried and used in potpourri, sachets, and household fresheners. The dried leaves retain their fragrance for months and naturally freshen rooms. [source]
Cut Flowers & Garden Arrangements
CraftGeranium flowers are excellent for fresh cut arrangements, providing color and longevity in floral displays. The flowers last 1-2 weeks in water and pair well with other garden flowers. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeGeranium flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to gardens, supporting ecosystem health while providing continuous garden color. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Geraniums are ornamental flowers harvested for cutting arrangements. Cut stems in early morning when flowers are fully open. Remove lower leaves and place in water immediately. Deadhead spent flower clusters regularly throughout the season to promote continuous blooming. Pinch back leggy stems to maintain compact shape.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite their common name 'Geranium,' most geraniums grown as ornamental plants are actually Pelargonium species, while true geraniums are hardy perennials in the genus Geranium.
- 🌱 Scented geraniums have fragrant leaves that release aroma when touched, with varieties smelling of rose, lemon, apple, mint, and even chocolate.
- 🌱 Geraniums have been cultivated as houseplants and ornamentals for over 300 years, originating from South Africa and becoming Victorian favorites.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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