Annual geraniums, more accurately known as pelargoniums, make exceptional container plants, serving as the thriller or filler. Their long-lasting blooms can brighten any patio, balcony or entryway. They are stunning when planted in several matching containers, where the colorful swath of flowers can make a big impact. The trailing ivy-leaved pelargoniums are particularly well-suited for growing in hanging baskets. Pelargoniums are not frost hardy, so plants can be tossed in the winter or brought indoors to overwinter.
Perennial geraniums, also known as hardy cranesbill, also grow well in containers and will come back year after year. They require little maintenance beyond dividing and repotting overgrown plants every few years. Hardy cranesbill makes an excellent filler in an unlimited number of great plant combinations.
Geraniums are a classic flowering plant that can add a pop of color to any garden. With their bright blooms available in a variety of hues like red, pink, white, purple and more, it’s no wonder geraniums remain one of the most popular container and bedding plants today.
However, getting those vibrant blooms requires providing geraniums with the right growing conditions. One of the most important factors is choosing a high-quality potting mix that meets the needs of these plants.
So what exactly makes a potting soil “geranium-friendly”? Here are the key qualities to look for:
Well-Draining But Moisture-Retentive
Geraniums need a potting mix that drains well to prevent soggy roots but also retains some moisture between waterings. The ideal balance lies in a soil with good aeration yet ability to hold water.
Look for mixes blended with sphagnum peat moss or coconut coir, both of which help provide fluffy texture for drainage while increasing the potting soil’s water-holding capacity.
Nutrient-Rich
Geraniums are heavy feeders that require regular fertilization for lush growth and maximum blooms The best potting soils for geraniums contain organic or slow-release fertilizers that supply plants with nutrients for 2-6 months after potting
This steady feed supports geraniums through their active growing and flowering periods, reducing the need for supplemental fertilizing.
Lightweight Yet Dense
Geranium roots dislike compacted and heavy mixes, which can lead to rot and other problems. Look for lightweight, fluffy potting soils made with ingredients like perlite, vermiculite, or pine bark fines to maintain an airy texture.
At the same time, geraniums grow better in soils with some density to prevent excessive drying between waterings. The right balance of bulk and fluffiness provides an ideal environment.
Suitable for Container Gardening
Since geraniums are so commonly grown in pots and planters, select a potting mix made for container culture. These are blended not only for proper drainage but also to be moisture-retentive in the confined environment of a container.
Avoid regular garden soils, which can become too dense when potted and won’t provide the aeration geranium roots need.
Provides Nutrients for At Least 2 Months
The convenience of a potting mix that feeds plants for an extended period makes caring for geraniums much simpler. There’s no need to fertilize at planting time and benefits continue for up to 6 months.
Slow-release fertilizers that state at least 2 months of feeding on the label ensure geraniums have a constant nutrient supply for excellent growth and blooms.
pH Balanced
While geraniums can tolerate a wide range, they prefer a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 5.5-6.5. Potting mixes formulated with limestone or dolomite help buffer the soil pH in this optimal range.
This prevents pH fluctuations that can limit nutrient availability to geraniums.
Organic Options Available
For gardeners who prefer organic gardening methods, there are organic potting mixes made with natural fertilizers and sustainable ingredients like coconut coir as a peat moss alternative.
Look for the OMRI Listed seal to verify the mix complies with organic standards.
The Best Potting Soil Options for Geraniums
Here are five potting soil products that meet the criteria above to help your geraniums thrive:
1. Miracle-Gro Organic Choice Potting Mix
- Contains fertilizer that feeds for up to 2 months
- Coconut coir improves moisture retention
- Certified for organic gardening (OMRI Listed)
- Made for all container plants including flowers
2. Espoma Organic Potting Mix
- Feeds up to 3 months with organic fertilizer
- Myco-tone provides beneficial microbes
- Perlite creates ideal texture and aeration
- Approved for organic use (OMRI Listed)
3. Sun Gro Black Gold All Purpose Potting Soil
- Extended feeding up to 6 months
- Good moisture control properties
- Contains perlite and vermiculite for drainage
- Reputable brand known for quality mixes
4. Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix
- AquaCoir formula helps regulate moisture
- Feeds plants up to 6 months
- Reduces frequency of watering container plants
- Prevents over- and under-watering problems
5. FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
- Rich in organic matter including humus and bat guano
- Provides nutrients for at least 2 months
- Coconut coir maintains moisture for plants
- Sustainably harvested ingredients
No matter which of these excellent potting soils you choose, following the manufacturer’s instructions for use along with proper watering, lighting, and other care practices will set your geraniums up for success. Paying special attention to choosing a top quality potting mix lays the foundation for growing vibrant, long-blooming geraniums.
Planting Geraniums in Pots
The best time to plant annual geraniums in pots is in the spring, when plants send out new growth. The cooler temperatures of spring also help new plants settle in before the heat of summer. Containers of pelargoniums should be placed in a sunny location, with at least 4 hours of direct sun for best blooming potential. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter, with holes for drainage. Pelargoniums do not appreciate soggy, waterlogged soil, so choose containers that drain well and can be elevated with pot feet.
Perennial geraniums have similar container requirements, although they are less fussy than their annual counterparts. Perennial geraniums can tolerate more shade and moisture than pelargoniums; however, they bloom better in full sun. They form a dense carpet, so choose pots at least 16 inches in diameter with drainage holes.
Caring For Geraniums in Planters
Both annual and perennial geraniums are tough container plants that do not require frequent watering and fertilizing. In general, water geranium containers more frequently in the summer when the top inch of soil feels dry. Annual perennials are not hardy in most climates and will need to be protected from frost. You can bring your pelargoniums indoors to overwinter or simply grow them as houseplants.
Best GERANIUM Care Tips – What We’ve Learned To Keep Geraniums Looking Their Best
FAQ
What is the best potting mix for geraniums?
The best spot for them is in a well-drained garden bed. They also grow well in pots or in hanging baskets. Choose a potting mix, with equal amounts soil, peat moss and perlite and they will thrive.
What soil do geraniums prefer?
What Kind of Soil to Use for Geraniums. The best soil for both perennial and annual geraniums is one that is both fertile and well-draining.
Is Miracle-Gro potting soil good for geraniums?
First, choose a container with drainage holes in the bottom. Next, add a handful of rocks over the holes and fill 3/4 full with high quality potting soil. I like Miracle-Gro Moisture Control. At this point, remove your geraniums gently from their plastic pots and arrange them in your container.
What is the secret to beautiful geraniums?
Rule 1: The ideal location for geraniums is warm and sunny
Geraniums originate in South Africa. That’s why they like it warm and bright. If you give them a sunny spot, they will thank you with lots of flowers. No need to worry about blazing midday sun, as geraniums can even tolerate this intense heat.
What kind of soil do geraniums need?
Geranium roots need soil that is lightweight enough so that they can easily push through. Too compact soil, as mentioned, will use up excess energy, which should otherwise be used to grow new leaves and flowers. Also, the soil needs to be airy so that the roots can breathe. Proper root aeration is crucial for geraniums.
How do you grow Geraniums in a pot?
Organically rich soil that drains well is best for growing geraniums. For bedding plants, mix aged compost or garden soil into the top 6 to 8 inches of the planting area. Use a quality, loose potting mix for container-grown plants. Geraniums thrive in soil with an average to slightly alkaline pH of 6.0 to 6.5. How do you plant geraniums in a pot?
Do geraniums need potting mix?
Now, let’s focus on the soil. Geraniums prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 7.5. Using a high-quality potting mix is an excellent choice to provide your geraniums with the right environment for healthy growth. Location is key when it comes to planting geraniums.
Can geraniums be planted in raised beds?
When planting geraniums in raised beds, mix equal parts garden soil and potting mix for the right medium. To improve soil nutrition and drainage, you can add Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil (in-ground) or Miracle-Gro® Potting Mix (containers). You can also add 2-3 inches of mulch to preserve soil moisture and prevent weeds.
How do geraniums grow?
Geraniums thrive in well-drained soil. This is because they are susceptible to root rot, which can occur when soil is waterlogged. To avoid this, it is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Geraniums can be planted in almost all types of garden soil, but they prefer a neutral or alkaline soil.
What temperature should geraniums grow in a container?
The ideal air temperature for geraniums is between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Container-grown geraniums should have the luxury of a perfectly prepared soil. Use a ready-made soil mix from the garden supply store, or supplement the native soil.