Geranium

Pelargonium × hortorum · Flower

A balcony classic that blooms from late spring until frost. It likes sun, prefers to dry out a little between drinks, and can be brought indoors to survive the winter. Cuttings root easily.

💧WaterWhen the top 1 in is dry (estimated)

☀️LightFull sun

🐾PetsToxic to pets

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun to light afternoon shade
Water: When the top 1 in is dry
Soil: Well-drained potting mix, pH 6.0–6.5
Temperature: 65–75 °F by day; no frost
Spacing: 10–12 in apart
Container: At least 8 in wide per plant
Bloom: Late spring to frost
Lifespan: Tender perennial, often grown as annual

When?

Plant outside after your last frost, once nights stay above 50 °F. Take cuttings in late summer to overwinter indoors.

Step by step

Choose a sunny spot or a container with drainage holes.
Set plants at the same depth they grew in the nursery pot.
Water well after planting, then let the surface dry between waterings.
Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Snap off faded flower heads to keep new ones coming.
Pinch long stems to keep the plant bushy.
Before frost, bring pots indoors to a cool, bright window.

Common problems

Yellow lower leavesUsually overwatering; let the soil dry more.

Gray fuzz on flowersGray mold in damp weather; remove affected parts, improve airflow.

Few flowers, leggy stemsNot enough sun; move to a sunnier spot and pinch back.

Pets

Toxic to cats and dogs; eating it may cause vomiting or skin irritation. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Petunia Begonia Marigold

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.