Geraniums, Containers or Flower Beds

The new varieties of Geraniums lend themselves well to window boxes, pots, containers and hanging baskets

Geraniums have been around for a long time. For many years they were grown mainly as pot plants. With the development of many new types and colors available from seed, they now are used in window boxes, pots or containers or in hanging baskets.

Geraniums are best planted outdoors just after the danger of frost has passed. Garden centers merchandise many of the plants in 3" - 4" pots or in trays or packs.

Geraniums require well drained and aerated soils. Red clay soils will require some amending. Work up a flower bed by spreading 3" of finely ground pine bark and 1" of coarse sand and thoroughly spade or plow these materials to a depth of 12". Work in 2 - 3 pounds of a 5-10-15 or 6-12-12 fertilizer per 100 square feet of bed space. This amounts to one heaping teaspoon per square foot.

Lime and fertilizers needed…

If you suspect your soil is heavily acid, and most clays are, you will need to add 2 1/2 Ibs. of dolomitic or agricultural grade lime per 100 sq. ft. The fertilizer and lime should be thoroughly mixed in the soil. Soils for window or planter boxes as well as containers can be prepared by mixing 1 part garden soil, 1 part peat moss, and 1 part coarse sand or perlite plus 1 teaspoon of fertilizer and lime per 6" 8" pot.

Watering important…

If planting geraniums from peat pots or trays of packs, soak them thoroughly one to two hours before planting. Water thoroughly after planting to soak and settle the soil around the roots. All through the growing season careful attention to water will be mandatory. Geraniums require a moist soil and do not tolerate excessively dry or wet soils. Be prepared to water flower beds once per week in periods without rainfall. Pots and containers may require frequent checking and watering.

Plant nutrition…

Liquid or dry fertilizers may be used to supply the nutritional needs. Liquid fertilizers should be applied every three weeks while dry fertilizers should be applied at 5 - 6 week intervals. Keep a close check on geraniums and they will reward you from early spring through the fall season.

For more information on geraniums contact your local county Extension office.