Ivy Geranium Care Outdoors: How to Grow These Trailing Beauties

Ivy geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) are gorgeous trailing flowering plants that are ideal for growing outdoors. With their dense, cascading foliage and pretty blooms in shades of pink, red, purple, and white, ivy geraniums make stunning additions to hanging baskets, window boxes, borders, and other garden beds.

Growing ivy geraniums outdoors does require some specialized care and conditions to help them thrive. Follow this guide to learn everything you need to know about successfully caring for ivy geraniums in your outdoor garden.

Ivy Geranium Growing Conditions

Ivy geraniums prefer the following growing conditions when planted outside:

• Full sun – Ivy geraniums need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is ideal.

• Soil – They grow best in moist, well-draining, fertile soil. Loamy soil amended with compost is optimal.

• pH – Soil pH between 60-70 is preferable, Acidic soil should be neutralized,

• Temperatures – Daytime temps of 65-75°F and nights above 50°F are ideal Protect from frost

• Water – Consistent moisture is key Water when top inch of soil is dry, Avoid soggy soil

Ensuring ivy geraniums get the proper sun, soil, water, and temperatures will provide the conditions they need for vigorous growth and maximum flowering outdoors.

Choosing the Best Location

When planting ivy geraniums in your outdoor garden, carefully select an optimal location. Here are some tips:

• Place in full sun exposure against a bright, sunny wall or fence. This takes advantage of reflected sunlight.

• Position near southern facing areas that receive lots of sunlight throughout the day.

• Plant in raised garden beds that warm faster and provide better drainage.

• Avoid spots with dense, encroaching tree shade that blocks too much sun.

• Give them shelter from strong winds which can damage the trailing foliage.

Situating your ivy geraniums in the sunniest, warmest, and most protected parts of your garden will promote success. Monitor the light and adjust positions over time as needed.

Preparing the Soil

Ivy geraniums thrive in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Here’s how to prepare the soil properly before planting:

• Loosen the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches to facilitate root growth. Break up compacted soil.

• Mix in 2-4 inches of high-quality compost or well-rotted manure. This boosts nutrients, organic matter, and drainage.

• Add a granular organic fertilizer according to package rates before planting. Slow-release fertilizers work well.

• Check that soil pH is between 6.0-7.0. Adjust with lime if too acidic or sulfur if alkaline.

• Consider building raised beds for improved drainage and to prevent soggy soil.

Taking time to enrich and improve the soil will establish the right foundation for your ivy geraniums to flourish.

When to Plant Outdoors

Ivy geraniums should be planted outdoors only after the last expected spring frost has passed. This timing varies by growing zone:

• Zones 10-11: February-March
• Zones 8-9: April
• Zones 7 or cooler: May

Planting too early when frosts can still occur will damage tender geraniums. Introduce them gradually once warmer weather has settled if they were overwintered indoors.

Planting Process

Follow these steps when planting ivy geraniums in your outdoor garden:

• Dig holes or beds wider and deeper than the root balls of plants. Space 12-24 inches apart depending on variety.

• Carefully remove from nursery pots, loosen tangled roots, and place in holes. Top of root ball should be level with the ground.

• Backfill holes with your enriched, amended garden soil. Tamp down gently but firmly.

• Water thoroughly until the soil is moist but not flooded. Allow excess water to drain.

• Spread a 1-2 inch layer of mulch like shredded bark around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

• Stake or trellis vining types initially to encourage upward growth if desired.

Proper planting technique provides ivy geraniums with the right start while minimizing transplant shock. Be sure not to bury any of the stems.

Ongoing Ivy Geranium Care

Once planted, ivy geraniums need proper care and maintenance to thrive outdoors:

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist 1-2 inches deep. Water thoroughly when top inch is dry. Morning watering is best.

• Fertilizing: Feed every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Follow label rates.

• Pruning: Pinch back long trailing stems or wind-damaged growth. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

• Pests/Diseases: Watch for aphids, mites, and botrytis. Control with horticultural soaps and oils. Improve air circulation.

• Winter Care: Geraniums are not frost hardy. Move containers indoors or take cuttings to propagate and overwinter plants.

With proper ongoing care, ivy geraniums will reward you with months of cascading color in your outdoor garden!

Common Problems and Solutions

Here are some potential issues and fixes for outdoor ivy geraniums:

Problem: Flowers fading, poor blooming

Solution: Give more sunlight, pinch back spent blooms, fertilize regularly

Problem: Wilting, drooping leaves

Solution: Check for under or overwatering and adjust, rule out disease

Problem: Holes in leaves, insects visible

Solution: Treat for aphids, spider mites, or other pests with insecticidal soap

Problem: Discolored foliage, spots on leaves

Solution: Look for signs of fungal issues and treat appropriately, improve air flow

Problem: Leggy, lackluster growth

Solution: Pinch back to promote bushiness, move to sunnier location

Enjoying Ivy Geraniums Outdoors

With their dazzling blooms and easy trailing habit, ivy geraniums are perfect for decorating garden beds, containers, window boxes, and hanging baskets outdoors. Provide them with ample sunlight, enriched soil, consistent moisture, and protection from frost. A bit of regular pruning and care will keep them growing vigorously. Incorporate these beautiful trailing plants into your outdoor living space and enjoy their wonderful ornamental appeal all season long!

Ivy geraniums thrive with consistent moisture, bright light (but not intense midday sun), and well-drained soil. Regular fertilization, deadheading, and occasional pruning will encourage abundant blooms.