Geranium care guide
Pelargonium
Also known as: Zonal geranium, Pelargonium
Pets and children
Considered toxic
The leaves and stems contain geraniol and related compounds; dogs and cats that eat them may vomit, lose appetite, or develop skin irritation, so keep it out of reach and see a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Geranium
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- It likes to stay dry: as a guide, water thoroughly about two to three days after the topsoil dries, and more sparingly in the rainy season and midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 5 days
- It flowers again now; as a guide, water about two to three days after the topsoil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Growth slows, so as a guide water sparingly on a mild morning a few days after the soil dries.
Light and placement for Geranium
A sunny, airy spot under the eaves is about right, since rain spoils the flowers and stems; in midsummer move it to bright shade out of the afternoon sun, as heat and humidity generally bring rot.
Overwintering Geranium
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
Kept from frost, it overwinters under the eaves or at a sunny window indoors, as a guide; it tolerates about 3°C, but water sparingly and keep it out of a heater's draft.
Fertilizing and repotting Geranium
Fertilizer
In spring and autumn, slow-release fertilizer about every two months or liquid feed every two weeks is the usual guide; hold off in midsummer and midwinter, since overfeeding gives leaves rather than flowers.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Geranium
- Summer rain and humidity rot the stems from the base.
- Overwatering rots the roots and yellows the lower leaves.
- Too little sun makes the stems leggy and stops the flowers.
Tips for growing Geranium
- Snap off spent flowers at the base of the stalk to head off gray mold.
- Cutting back before the rainy season for better airflow helps it through summer.
- Take cuttings in spring or autumn and let the cut end dry for about half a day before planting.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
