Growing Annual Geraniums (Pelargonium): Care & Tips

Growing Geranium (Annual)

Annual geraniums (Pelargonium) are garden classics, prized for their vibrant clusters of red, pink, white, and salmon flowers that bloom nonstop from spring to frost. Perfect for containers, window boxes, and bedding displays, they bring instant color to sunny spots.

Light and Watering

Provide full sun (at least 6 hours daily); in hot southern climates, light afternoon shade prevents heat stress. Plant in well-drained soil and allow the top inch to dry between waterings—geraniums dislike soggy roots. Container plants may need daily watering in summer heat.

Feeding and Deadheading

For continuous bloom, feed every two weeks with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer (such as 20-20-20) at half strength. Remove spent flower heads regularly by snapping off the entire stalk at the base; this redirects energy into new buds.

Overwintering Indoors

Before the first frost, bring pots indoors to a bright, cool window (50–60°F). Water sparingly—just enough to keep stems from shriveling. In late winter, cut back leggy growth by half. After the last frost, harden off and move outside; plants will quickly regain their bushy form.