Geranium

Common bedding geraniums, usually Pelargonium hybrids, need well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Mix compost into beds and feed containers regularly, allowing the surface to dry between waterings to protect the roots.

Sun

Full sun to part shade

Water

Let surface dry between waterings

Spacing

12 in

First harvest

70–90 from cutting or transplant

Tips

• Set hardened transplants at their original depth about 12 inches apart after frost danger has passed.
• Water thoroughly when the soil surface dries, and empty saucers so roots never stand in water.
• Feed container plants with a balanced flowering-plant fertilizer at the labeled interval during active growth.
• Watch for Botrytis gray mold on spent flowers and remove affected tissue promptly.
• Snap off faded flower stalks at their base and pinch leggy stems to encourage branching.