Growing Geraniums: America's Favorite Indoor Flowering Plant

Geraniums (Pelargonium) top U.S. houseplant popularity—hardy, long-blooming, and endlessly varied. Four main types offer distinct charms:

The Four Geranium Classes

• Show/Fancy (Lady Washington): Large, showy blooms with distinctive dark centers; summer flowering in many colors
• Zonal/Fish: Most common household type—blooms daily spring through fall; needs pruning to control size and encourage flowers
• Ivy-leaved: Trailing/climbing habit; trained on supports for dramatic cascades
• Scented-leaved: Grown for fragrance (rose, lemon, mint, etc.); brief seasonal blooms complement aromatic foliage

Designing with Geraniums

Mix types for layered displays: Zonals for continuous color, ivies for vertical interest, scented for fragrance, Lady Washington for seasonal spectacle. Together they create dynamic, multi-sensory arrangements.

Care Essentials

• Bright light (south/west windows)
• Well-draining soil; let dry between waterings
• Regular deadheading and pruning
• Watch for pests and fungal issues in humid conditions

With modest effort, geraniums reward you with nearly year-round beauty and fragrance.