Geranium

Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out completely between waterings to avoid root rot, as geraniums are drought-tolerant and prone to damage from overwatering. Reduce watering frequency significantly during the winter months when plant growth slows, only providing moisture when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feel dry.

Geraniums thrive in full, direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours per day, which encourages abundant blooming and sturdy, compact growth. Indoors, place them in a south-facing window; if light levels are low during winter, supplement with grow lights to prevent leggy, sparse foliage.

Plant geraniums in a well-draining, loamy potting mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 6.5 for optimal nutrient uptake. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils, and add perlite or coarse sand to commercial potting mixes to improve drainage if growing in containers.

Feed geraniums with a balanced, water-soluble 10-10-10 fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2 to 4 weeks during the active growing season from spring to early fall. Cease fertilization entirely in winter, when the plant is dormant, to prevent salt buildup in the soil that can burn roots.

Geraniums prefer daytime temperatures between 65 and 75°F (18 and 24°C) and nighttime temperatures between 55 and 65°F (13 and 18°C) for best growth and flowering. They are sensitive to frost and will die back if exposed to temperatures below 32°F (0°C), so move outdoor container plants indoors before the first fall frost.

Pinch back the tips of young geranium stems regularly to encourage bushier, more compact growth and prevent legginess. Deadhead spent flower clusters promptly to redirect the plant’s energy into producing new blooms, and cut back overgrown plants by up to one-third in late winter to stimulate fresh spring growth.

Geraniums are most easily propagated from 3 to 4 inch stem cuttings taken in spring or early fall, stripped of lower leaves, and rooted in moist perlite or well-draining potting mix without rooting hormone. They can also be grown from seed, though seed-grown plants will take longer to reach blooming size and may not retain the exact traits of the parent plant.

Geraniums adapt well to average household humidity levels between 40 and 50%, and do not require additional misting or humidification to thrive. Avoid placing them in overly humid, poorly ventilated areas, as high moisture levels can increase the risk of fungal leaf spots and stem rot.

Repot geraniums every 1 to 2 years in spring, only when they become root-bound, as they bloom best when slightly pot-bound. Choose a container that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot, ensure it has drainage holes, and use fresh, well-draining potting mix to refresh the root environment.