Geraniums

Geraniums (Pelargonium) are a favorite bedding plant in the garden or in hanging baskets. But they are also commonly grown indoors as houseplants. Geraniums are appreciated for their long blooming season that starts in spring and can last into fall.

Growing Geraniums

Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants which includes about 280 species of perennials, succulents, and shrubs, commonly known as geraniums, pelargoniums, or storksbills. We offer mainly perennials because they are great to add a pop of color to garden arrangements. Geraniums flower in shades of white, red, pink, purple, mauve, orange, and reddish-black. This annual makes a perfect companion plant in garden beds and containers. According to the ASPCA, geraniums are toxic in dogs and cats.

The Best Way to Use Geraniums

An excellent choice for sunny beds and borders, geraniums also make a standout filler for containers. Geraniums are hardy in zones 9-12 and are grown like an annual elsewhere. Geraniums are appreciated for their long blooming season that starts in spring and can last into fall. The most common varieties average 2 to 4 feet tall and wide, dwarf cultivars in heights 5 to 8 inches, and ivy types spread 6 to 48 inches. This plant prefers full sun and well draining soil. Water regularly to prevent wilting. This rebloomer is deer resistant and drought tolerant.

Geranium Companion Plants

Geraniums are an excellent choice for beds and borders along with other annuals or perennials. Companion planting with geraniums is beneficial because they deter some very common and destructive pests. Scented geraniums are also believed to deter spider mites, leafhoppers and cotton aphids. Used in containers, the big, rounded heads of geranium flowers are ideal for contrasting spiky plants, such as celosia, and are accented beautifully by fine-texture foliage, such as ferns. Here are our favorites to grow with geraniums.