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Geranium

Scientific Name​

Pelargonium.

Description​

Geranium, commonly referred to as cranesbill, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Geraniaceae, encompassing around 300 species. These perennial plants are renowned for their attractive flowers and hardy nature, making them popular among amateur gardeners. Geraniums typically feature rounded leaves that can be serrated or lobed and are often aromatic. The flowers are usually borne in clusters and come in a variety of colors including pink, purple, red, and white, with some varieties displaying striking patterns or markings.

Geraniums are versatile in their growing conditions, thriving in well-drained soil and preferring partial shade to full sun. They are drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering during dry spells. The plant typically blooms from late spring to early fall, providing a long season of color in the garden.

In terms of wildlife, geraniums are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity. They are also generally low maintenance, requiring minimal care aside from occasional deadheading to encourage further blooming and prevent reseeding.

Geraniums are often used in borders, rock gardens, or containers, and some types are suitable for ground cover due to their spreading habit. Additionally, the foliage of certain species can provide interest even when flowers are not present. Overall, geraniums are a delightful addition to any garden, valued for their beauty, resilience, and adaptability.

Where it Grows​

When to Plant​

Timing for Planting Geraniums​

Geraniums, known for their vibrant blooms and versatility, are a favorite for many gardeners. Determining the right time to plant them is crucial for ensuring healthy growth and abundant flowers. Here are key factors to consider for planting geraniums:

1. Climate Zone​

Understanding your climate zone is essential. Geraniums typically prefer warmer temperatures, and they thrive best when daytime temperatures are consistently between 70°F and 75°F (21°C to 24°C). In cooler regions, you'll want to wait until the last frost date has passed since frost can damage young plants. Research your local frost dates to identify the best planting window.

2. Soil Temperature​

In addition to air temperatures, soil temperature plays a crucial role. Geraniums grow best when the soil temperature is at least 60°F (15°C). You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature prior to planting. Warmer soil promotes quicker germination and root establishment.

3. Transplanting from Indoors​

If you're starting geraniums from seed indoors, you should sow the seeds approximately 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Once indoor seedlings have a couple of sets of true leaves and outdoor conditions become favorable (post-frost), you can begin hardening them off. This involves gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week's time before planting them in their permanent spot.

4. Container vs. Ground Planting​

Geraniums can be planted in containers as well as directly in the ground. If planting in containers, you have the flexibility to move the plants outdoors as temperatures rise. However, they should not be moved outside until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C).

5. General Recommendation​

For most gardeners in temperate regions, an ideal time to plant geraniums outdoors is in mid to late spring (often around May), once all threat of frost has passed. In warmer climates, planting can occur earlier, typically as early as March or April.

Conclusion​

Timing is everything when it comes to planting geraniums. By taking into account your climate, soil temperature, and whether the plants are started indoors or outdoors, you can ensure successful growth and vibrant blooms. Always keep an eye on the weather and act accordingly for the best results!

How to Plant​

Planting geraniums, known for their vibrant blooms and easy-care nature, can bring a splash of color to your garden or containers. Here’s a straightforward guide to ensure successful planting.

Choosing the Right Time and Location
Geraniums thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sunlight. Aim to plant them in the spring after the last frost, as they are sensitive to cold.

Soil Preparation
Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork and mixing in organic matter like compost to promote fertility and drainage.

Planting Procedure

  • Spacing: If planting in the garden, space geraniums about 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation.
  • Digging Holes: Create holes that are slightly deeper and wider than the root balls of your plants.
  • Placement: Remove the geranium from its pot, gently loosen any tightly bound roots, and place it in the hole. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
  • Backfilling: Fill the hole with soil, gently compacting it around the root ball to eliminate air pockets.

Watering
After planting, water thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist (but not waterlogged). Geraniums benefit from regular watering, especially during hot weather, but take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

By following these steps, you can create a thriving environment for your geraniums, enhancing your garden's appeal!

Watering​

Watering geraniums effectively is crucial for their health and blooms. The best strategy is to adopt a "soak and dry" approach. Begin by thoroughly watering the plant until water drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring the entire root system receives moisture. Geraniums prefer soil that is well-draining, so it’s important not to let them sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot.

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. This helps prevent overwatering, a common issue for geraniums. In warmer months, or when the plant is actively growing, they may require more frequent watering, approximately once or twice a week. In cooler months, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging during their dormancy. Monitoring the soil moisture regularly will keep your geranium healthy and vibrant throughout its growing season.

Pruning​

Pruning geraniums is essential for encouraging bushy growth, enhancing flowering, and maintaining overall plant health. The best strategy involves a few key steps:

  1. Timing: Prune geraniums in early spring before new growth begins, or after the last blooms in late summer. This helps rejuvenate the plant for the growing season.

  2. Tools: Use clean, sharp shears or scissors to make clean cuts, minimizing damage and reducing the risk of disease.

  3. Technique: Start by removing dead or yellowing leaves and any spent flowers. This encourages new blooms and improves air circulation. Next, trim back leggy growth, cutting stems just above a leaf node. This promotes fuller, bushier growth.

  4. Shaping: Aim for a balanced shape by selectively pruning longer stems. Avoid over-pruning; maintaining around one-third of the plant’s foliage can help preserve its vigorous nature.

By following these steps, you can maintain a healthy, vibrant geranium throughout the blooming season.

Weeding​

Weeding around geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) requires a gentle but systematic approach to ensure the health of the plants while effectively removing unwanted weeds. Start by assessing the area around the geraniums to identify which weeds are present. Hand-pulling is often the best strategy, especially for shallow-rooted weeds, as this minimizes damage to the geranium’s roots. It is best to weed when the soil is moist, as this makes it easier to remove entire roots.

Use a garden fork or a trowel to carefully loosen the soil, being cautious not to disturb the geranium's root system. Mulching around the plants with organic materials like wood chips or straw can also help suppress future weed growth while retaining soil moisture. Regular maintenance and monitoring will keep your geraniums healthy and reduce the time spent on weeding.

Mulching​

Mulching Geraniums (Pelargonium) is an effective strategy to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain consistent soil temperatures. The best approach involves several steps:

  1. Timing: Apply mulch after the soil has warmed in spring and the risk of frost has passed. This ensures the plant can grow vigorously.

  2. Material Selection: Use organic materials such as shredded bark, straw, or wood chips, which will not only provide insulation but also decompose over time, enriching the soil.

  3. Layering: Spread a 1 to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot and disease.

  4. Maintenance: Regularly check the mulch levels and replenish as needed to maintain effective coverage, ensuring optimal conditions for your Geraniums throughout their growing season.

Proper mulching can lead to healthier, more vibrant plants while reducing the frequency of watering.

Fertilizing​

Fertilizing geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) effectively enhances their health and blooming potential. The best strategy begins with selecting a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, typically high in phosphorus (the middle number in the N-P-K ratio) to promote flowering. A 20-20-20 or 15-30-15 formulation can work well.

Begin fertilizing in early spring when new growth appears, and continue every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season, tapering off in late summer. Always dilute the fertilizer according to package directions to avoid root burn.

Consider using a slow-release granular fertilizer at the start of the growing season for more consistent nutrition. Regularly assess the plant’s needs based on its growth and blooming; signs of nutrient deficiency may include yellowing leaves or sparse flowers, indicating it may require more frequent supplementation. Always water thoroughly before and after applying fertilizer to safeguard against chemical burn.

Varieties​

Common Varieties of Geranium​

Geraniums, commonly referred to as “cranesbills,” belong to the genus Geranium in the flowering plant family Geraniaceae. Known for their vibrant blooms and attractive foliage, geraniums are a favorite among amateur gardeners and landscape designers alike. Within this genus, various species and hybrids are cultivated for ornamental purposes. Here is a list of some of the most common varieties of geranium:

1. Garden Geranium (Geranium × cantabrigiense)​

  • This hardy perennial hybrid is often used in gardens for its trailing growth habit and long flowering period. It features small pink to purple flowers and is known for its ability to tolerate a variety of soils.

2. Cranesbill (Geranium maculatum)​

  • This native North American species is appreciated for its attractive pale purple flowers and lobed leaves. It thrives in woodland gardens and naturalized areas, providing a lovely ground cover.

3. Geranium pratense (Meadow Geranium)​

  • Known for its tall stems and striking blue to violet flowers, Geranium pratense is commonly found in meadows and grasslands. It is a great choice for cottage gardens and attracts pollinators.

4. Geranium sylvaticum (Woodland Geranium)​

  • This variety flourishes in shady, moist environments and produces delicate blue flowers. Its clumping growth habit makes it an excellent option for naturalizing in woodland settings.

5. Geranium robertianum (Herb Robert)​

  • A low-growing perennial with small pink flowers, Geranium robertianum is often found in woodland areas. This variety is also recognized for its distinctive, fragrant foliage.

6. Geranium endressii (Endress' Cranesbill)​

  • This hybrid geranium is notable for its bright, cup-shaped pink flowers. It typically blooms from late spring to early summer and makes a colorful addition to gardens and borders.

7. Geranium 'Johnson's Blue'​

  • A popular hybrid known for its stunning blue flowers with a white center. This variety is tolerant of a variety of conditions and can bloom prolifically, making it favorable for mixed borders.

8. Geranium 'Rozanne'​

  • This award-winning variety is recognized for its long-lasting violet-blue flowers and exceptional landscape performance. Rozanne blooms throughout the summer and is drought-tolerant once established.

9. Geranium 'Biokovo'​

  • A compact variety that features clusters of pale pink flowers and light green foliage. It’s often used in rock gardens and as a ground cover due to its low-growing habit.

Conclusion​

Geraniums are versatile in both form and function, providing essential aesthetics in various garden contexts. Whether you opt for the bold colors of hybrids or the delicate charm of native species, there's a geranium suitable for nearly every gardening scenario. In addition to their beauty, many geranium varieties are low-maintenance, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned gardeners. When selecting geranium varieties for your garden, consider the climate, soil conditions, and the aesthetic you wish to achieve.

Health Benefits​

Geranium, particularly the species Pelargonium graveolens, has a rich history of application in health and wellness. Often revered for its aromatic leaves, geranium is used in aromatherapy, where its essential oil is believed to promote emotional balance. The uplifting aroma is thought to alleviate anxiety, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a popular choice in wellness practices.

Additionally, geranium oil is lauded for its potential anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It can be diluted and applied topically to help soothe skin irritations, minor cuts, and bruises. This application is rooted in traditional herbal medicine, where geranium has been employed to treat various skin conditions.

In the realm of digestive wellness, geranium root is sometimes used in herbal infusions aimed at easing digestive troubles and supporting liver function. While scientific research on these specific benefits is still developing, the historical context of geranium in natural remedies speaks to its significance in holistic health practices.

Lastly, geranium’s presence in cosmetic formulations is notable, as its oil is often found in skincare products for its purported anti-aging benefits, helping to improve skin elasticity and tone. These applications highlight geranium's versatile role in promoting overall health and well-being.

Fun Facts​

Fun Facts about Geraniums​

  • Not True Geraniums: Commonly referred to as geraniums, many of the plants in gardens are actually from the Pelargonium genus. True geraniums belong to a different genus and are often called cranesbills due to their seed pod shape.

  • Diverse Foliage: Geraniums come in a wide array of leaf shapes and colors, ranging from smooth green leaves to variegated and deeply lobed varieties. This diversity makes them popular for ornamental purposes in gardens.

  • Long Blooming Season: Geraniums can offer a colorful display from spring to fall, with some varieties even blooming year-round in milder climates. Regular deadheading can encourage more blooms throughout the season.

  • Tolerant of Neglect: These plants are known for their resilience; they can withstand drought and poor soil conditions better than many other flowering plants, making them an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.

  • Scented Varieties: Some geraniums, like the scented geraniums (Pelargonium spp.), produce aromatic leaves that can be used in culinary applications or as natural air fresheners, offering various fragrances from rose to lemon.