Anyone who thinks geraniums are boring hasn’t looked close enough, they’re not just simple red flowers in window boxes. These versatile plants have much more to offer for your balcony or garden.
When you learn more about the different species, you can plant varieties exactly to your liking and discover the WHOLE world of geraniums. This article will teach you:
Hey fellow garden enthusiasts! I’ve been growing geraniums for years, and I’m super excited to share everything I know about these beautiful blooming beauties. If you’re looking to add some color to your garden, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of geraniums!
Understanding Geraniums: The Basics
Before we jump in, here’s something interesting – what we commonly call geraniums actually belong to two different groups:
- True geraniums (Cranesbills)
- Pelargoniums (commonly called geraniums)
In this article, we’ll look at both types because, hey, they’re all gorgeous and worth knowing about!
Main Types of Geraniums
1. Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium × hortorum)
These are probably what pops into your head when someone says “geranium.” They’re the most common type and honestly, my personal favorite! Here’s why they’re special:
- Height: Usually grows 12-24 inches tall
- Distinctive dark bands on leaves (that’s why they’re called “zonal”)
- Flower colors: Red, purple, pink, white, orange
- Perfect for: Containers, beds, borders
2. Ivy Geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum)
I absolutely love these for hanging baskets! They’re the trailing superstars of the geranium world
- Trailing stems that can spread up to 48 inches
- Glossy, ivy-like leaves
- Great for: Hanging baskets, window boxes
- Colors: Red, pink, mauve, purple, white
3. Regal Geraniums (Martha Washington)
These are the fancy pants of the geranium world! Also known as Martha Washington geraniums, they’re real show-stoppers.
- Large, showy blooms
- Height: 12-48 inches
- Unique bi-colored patterns
- Best for: Protected outdoor areas or indoor growing
4. Scented Geraniums
Y’all won’t believe the amazing scents these babies produce! Each variety has its own unique fragrance
- Rose scented
- Lemon scented
- Apple scented
- Peppermint scented
- Pine scented
- Coconut scented
5. Interspecific Geraniums
These are like the super-kids of the geranium world – a cross between ivy and zonal types.
- Heat resistant
- Large blooms
- Semi-trailing habit
- Colors: Deep red, orange, pink, purple
Unique Varieties Worth Trying
6. Buxton Blue
- Striking blue flowers
- White eye center
- Height: 12-20 inches
- Great for containers
7. Splish Splash
This one’s my absolute fave!
- White petals with purple speckles
- Height: 23-27 inches
- Super unique pattern
8. Ann Folkard
- Purple petals
- Black star-shaped centers
- Chartreuse leaves
- Height: 12-18 inches
9. Wild Geranium
The original native beauty!
- Colors: White to dark pink
- Star-shaped leaves
- Height: 18-24 inches
10. Alba
- Pure white flowers
- Height: 4-5 feet (yes, really!)
- Perfect for rock gardens
Growing Tips
Here’s what I’ve learned from growing these beauties
- Sunlight Requirements:
- Most need 4-6 hours of direct sun
- Some varieties tolerate partial shade
- Watering Needs:
- Water thoroughly
- Let soil dry between waterings
- Avoid overwatering (trust me, I learned this the hard way!)
- Maintenance:
- Remove spent flowers
- Pinch back stems for bushier growth
- Fertilize every 2 months during growing season
Common Problems and Solutions
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here’s what to watch for:
- Yellow leaves? Check your watering schedule
- Few blooms? Might need more sun
- Leggy growth? Time for pruning!
Final Thoughts
I gotta say, geraniums are some of the most rewarding plants I’ve ever grown. Whether you’re a newbie gardener or a seasoned pro, there’s a geranium variety that’ll work for you. Start with one type and before you know it, you’ll be hooked just like me!
Remember, gardening is all about experimenting and having fun. Don’t be afraid to try different varieties and see what works in your space. Happy planting, everyone!
Would you like me to explain or break down any part of this article in more detail?
Handy tip: How to overwinter geraniums
Before the first frost, cut your geraniums back by about 15 centimetres. Move them to a light but cool place away from frosts, most likely indoors, ideally where the temperature is between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius. In winter, water only when the soil has dried out, very rarely. In March, take the geraniums out of their winter spot and prune back any new growth. Repot your geraniums in fresh soil. Check the roots and generously prune any dry or rotten parts. After watering, place the pots in a warm place with plenty of light at about 18 degrees Celsius, where the geraniums will grow new roots and leaves. After the last frost, they can go outside. We’ll now put the spotlight on some of the more commonly-known varieties of geraniums.
Fancy leaf geraniums – unsung beauties
Admittedly, ornamental leaf geraniums – commonly known as “fancy leaf” types – don’t flower as much as some of the more common varieties. However, they do have beautifully coloured foliage and sometimes intricate patterns such as yellow, dark red and green stripes. Upright and trailing geranium varieties also have exciting foliage. Like all geraniums, fancy leaf varieties prefer a warm, sunny location and regular watering, as well as the right amount of fertiliser. How to fertilise geraniums. Why plant fancy leaf geraniums? Fancy leaf geraniums bring variety to mixed summer arrangements. There are so many different species that some people even collect them.
Different Types of Geraniums: A Guide to the BEST Varieties
FAQ
How do I identify which geranium I have?
Vegetatively, many Geranium species can be identified from leaf shape alone though the shapes of most species vary with age and habitat, and many species such as G. sanguineum vary markedly between populations.
What kind of geraniums come back every year?
The answer is that several types such as zonal, ivy, and regal geraniums are perennial plants that can continue growing for many years. However, they are frost-tender plants, meaning they won’t survive freezing temperatures.
What is the best long blooming geranium?
Geranium Rozanne® is the longest blooming and most prolific blue-flowered Geranium in our garden.
Which geraniums flower all summer?
GERANIUM Rozanne (‘Gerwat’PBR)
‘Rozanne’ carries masses of large, vivid violet-blue saucer-like flowers with distinct white centres and star-like reddish-purple veins over spreading mounds of dark green foliage. This is the longest flowering Geranium we know, lasting all summer into the autumn.