Add these easygoing perennials to your flower beds.
Southern Living/Adrienne Legault
Youve probably grownannual geraniums(in the genusPelargonium) for years.
But those plants are cousins to true geraniums (Geraniumspp.)
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These under-utilized flowers deserve a place in your garden for their hardiness and beauty.
Perennial geraniums bloom from spring through summer, and some varieties bloom into the fall.
The fast-growing plants dont require a lot of care, which makes them good for beginners.
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Perennial geraniums are low-growing, mounding plants that work well asground covers, edging plants, or in containers.
Pollinators love the delicate flowers that appear on long, graceful stems above the foliage.
These perennials are not fussy about soil jot down, and they grow in full sun to part shade.
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Deer and rodents generally steer clear of these plants because of their fragrance.
Plant them in spring after the last frost so they will become established before hot weather arrives.
Here is everything you should probably know about growing and caring for perennial geraniums in the South.
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Once established, these only require water during drought conditions.
Deadheading is not required, though a quick shearing can rejuvenate leggy growth after blooming.
Light
Give perennial geranium at least four to six hours of direct sunlight.
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Afternoon shade is okay in hot regions.
It tolerates dappled shade, too, but may produce fewer flowers.
Soil
Perennial geranium grows well in all soil types, including sand and clay.
Water
Water these plants the first few weeks when getting established.
Otherwise, they dont typically need supplemental watering unless its a lengthy drought.
They also survive winters well and are hardy in Zones 4 to 8 (USDA) in the South.
Fertilizer
These plants typically dont require fertilizer unless the soil is poor.
Types Of Perennial Geraniums
Pruning
Perennial geraniums are low maintenance once established.
Cut them back to the ground after blooming to encourage more foliage and flowers later in the season.
For healthy growth and flowering, divide the clumps every three to five years in spring.
Theyre incredibly forgiving about being moved, so dont be afraid to divide them to make more plants.
To divide clumps, follow the steps below.
How To Grow Perennial Geraniums From Seed
Perennial geraniums self-seed and take root easily.
Transplant the new seedlings elsewhere in the garden or plant in a pot.
Growing them from seed takes a long time.
For this method, gather seeds and plant directly in the garden orseed-starting traysin the spring.
These plants can take three to five years to flower.
Potting And Repotting Perennial Geraniums
you’ve got the option to grow perennial geraniums in pots.
They may do better in pots inwarmer zones, such as the Mid and Lower South.
To pot, use a 12-inch container with good drainage.
Add potting soil mix, and spread out the geraniums roots as you plant it.
Perennial geraniums do not need frequent repotting.
Repot when the roots begin to grow through the drainage holes of the container.
Divide container plants and repot every three years for new plants.
Theres no special care required to keep these plantsover the winter.
Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil totreat these pests.
They may also suffer from rust, mildew, and leaf spot.
Moist or humid environments can cause rust, and cutting off any affected leaves will help control it.
Prevent mildew by spacing plants enough to provide adequate airflow, and water at the roots rather than overhead.
Leaf spot can be a problem in moist environments.
Apply a fungicide for treatment.
You also may get a subsequent flush of flowers if you shear the plants back after the first bloom.
Common Problems With Perennial Geraniums
These are some of the mostfuss-free perennialsyou can grow.
But you should watch for yellowing leaves as an indicator of proper care.
Leaves Turning Yellow
This is a sign that the plant isn’t receiving enough sunlight.
Yellow leaves can also be a sign of too much water.
Avoid overwatering by letting the top layer of soil dry between waterings.
Frequently Asked Questions
These geraniums can live for several years.
Hardy geraniums need a cold period so they will re-emerge each spring.
Growing them outdoors is best.
Since these plants self-seed, they’ll continue to spread and clump.
Plant them in partial shade in flower beds, walkways, borders, and rock and woodland gardens.
