Classic, reliable bloomers with rounded flower clusters in red, pink, salmon, and white. These are the Pelargonium geraniums â the ones you see in window boxes and containers everywhere.
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Sunlight
Full sun, 6+ hrs
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Water
Let dry between waterings
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Type
Annual (tender perennial)
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Soil
Well-drained
Growing Basics
Geraniums (Pelargonium) are annuals in Minnesota â they're frost-tender but can be overwintered indoors.
Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for the best blooming. They can tolerate some light shade but will bloom less.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Soggy roots are the most common way to kill a geranium.
Transplanting: Plant after the last frost when nighttime temps stay above 50°F. Plant at the same depth as in the pot.
Watering: Let the top inch or two of soil dry out between waterings. Geraniums are more drought-tolerant than most annuals and strongly dislike overwatering.
Fertilization: Feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or one slightly higher in phosphorus to encourage blooming.
Other Tips
Deadhead spent flower clusters by snapping or cutting them off at the base of the stem. This encourages new blooms to form.
Remove any yellowing leaves promptly to keep plants tidy and discourage disease.
Before frost in fall, you can dig up the whole plant, pot it up, and bring it indoors to overwinter in a sunny window. Cut back by about half and water sparingly through winter.
Geraniums are naturally deer-resistant â the scent deters browsing.
