When to Plant Geraniums?

When to plant geraniums? Here's the real story.

What exactly are geraniums?

Geraniums are colorful bloomers often found in flower boxes, borders, and hanging baskets. They are especially beloved for their long blooming period, usually from May to October, and their relatively easy care. Note: what we commonly call geraniums are actually Pelargoniums. But for simplicity's sake, we'll simply refer to them as "geraniums" in this blog post.

When should you plant geraniums in open ground?

The best time to plant geraniums in the open ground is mid-May, as soon as the risk of night frost has completely passed. A handy rule of thumb: after the Ice Saints (May 11th to 14th) is usually a good time. Ideally, choose a dry, cloudy day for planting. This prevents young plants from being sunburned just as they're developing roots.

A sunny spot is ideal, as geraniums are true sun worshippers. So make sure they get at least six hours of sunlight daily. Do you only have shady spots? Then alternatives like the Spathiphyllum might be more suitable.

When do you plant geraniums in a greenhouse?

In a greenhouse, you can plant geraniums earlier, often starting in mid-April. The temperature there remains more stable, protecting young plants from late frost. However, even there, you should be careful of overly warm days with full sun, as it can quickly become too hot.

In a greenhouse, it's best to plant in the morning on a cloudy day. Ensure the soil is slightly moist, but not soggy. After planting, give the plants a good watering to help the roots get started right away. You can also use hydroponic pebbles in your potting soil for better drainage, especially in containers and pots.

How to plant geraniums?

Soil type and preparation

Geraniums prefer a slightly fertile, well-drained soil. Add some perlite, for example, for extra aeration. When planting, also work some organic fertilizer into the soil for an extra boost of blooms. You don't need to dig deep planting holes. Simply plant the plant just below the level of the root ball.

For potted plants or flower boxes, we recommend a mixture with suitable potting soil , specifically for flowering plants. Don't forget to water your flower boxes regularly. A flower terrace in the sun evaporates faster than you think.

Watering? How to prevent soggy feet

Although geraniums love sun, they're also thirsty. Especially in containers and pots, you should check daily whether the substrate is dry. It's better to give them a good watering once a week than a little bit every day. This encourages the roots to grow deeper.

About to go on vacation? It's handy to set up an automatic watering system . This will keep your geraniums from drying out while you're sunbathing on the other side of Europe.

Short summary for those who can't wait

• Best planting period outdoors: From mid-May (after the Ice Saints)
• In the greenhouse: From mid-April with good ventilation
• Soil: Lightly nutritious and well-drained
• Planting day: Cloudy or rainy, never in full sun
• Location: Full sun or partial shade

Combining geraniums with other plants

Want some extra variety in your flower box or garden border? Geraniums are wonderful team players! Combine them with hanging plants like Dischidia or robust foliage plants like Aglaonema . They create a beautiful color contrast.

Want a bit of summer feeling indoors? Consider an easy houseplant like the ZZ plant or, if you love animal prints, the Alocasia Zebrina .

Overwintering geraniums: don't just throw them away

Geraniums aren't officially perennials in our region, but they're perfectly fine to overwinter. Bring them indoors in October before the first frost. A cool, frost-free spot with plenty of light—such as a veranda or unheated hallway—is ideal.

Prune the plants lightly, water sparingly, and simply let them rest. In March, repot the geraniums in fresh potting soil and add a few spoonfuls of nutritious compost. This way, they'll be fresh and ready to plant again when May arrives.

Would you prefer something that stays good all year round?

If you don't feel like overwintering plants or changing seasons, consider hardier evergreens. Plants like the Yucca or Dracaena don't require a dormant period and remain beautiful year-round.

Looking for something truly unique? Then the Monstera Minima might just be what you're looking for. Its unique leaves make it a real eye-catcher in your home.

Want to know more about when to plant which plants?

In our " When to Plant? " series, you'll learn all about the ideal planting times for various plants, from dahlias to apple trees . This way, you'll never find yourself digging at the wrong time.

Conclusion: the right timing makes your geraniums happy

Geraniums are summer favorites, but they require some attention when it comes to timing. Plant them outdoors after the Ice Saints, and in a greenhouse before then. Pay attention to the weather forecast, give them sun, and ensure they have good soil. Then they'll bloom happily for months. And don't want to wait until May? In the meantime, browse our collection of easy-care houseplants for beginners – packed with options that will make your interior shine right now.