About Geranium
While most people propagate geraniums from cuttings, growing them from seed is becoming increasingly popular. Known for their ease of cultivation, geraniums thrive effortlessly—and their rich Mediterranean hues make them even more irresistible.
When to Plant Geranium Seeds
Geraniums take 12–16 weeks to grow from seed to bloom, so plan accordingly for your zone. Start seeds indoors (see “How to Plant Geranium Seeds” below). Once the frost is gone, begin the hardening off process: for a week, place seedlings in a partially shaded outdoor spot during the day and bring them inside at night. After this adjustment period, they’ll be ready for outdoor planting.
Where to Plant Geranium Seeds
Geraniums thrive in both full sun and partial shade, but more sun means more blooms! They’re perfect for pots, hanging baskets, garden beds, or even hillsides—low effort, high reward. Just pick your spot and enjoy the vibrant display!
How to Plant Geranium Seeds
Fill small pots with 2–3 inches of soil—just a starter size. Once geraniums develop 2–3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger containers. Moisten the soil before planting, then cover each seed with a thin layer of soil. To maintain moisture, place pots inside a clear plastic bag, cover with plastic wrap, or use a seed-starting kit with a plastic lid.
Geranium seeds need 75°F to germinate—achievable by placing them on top of a refrigerator or using a heat mat. They thrive in sunlight, so position them near a south-facing window. Germination typically occurs within 1–4 weeks. If the soil looks dry, remove the cover and mist lightly.
Once seedlings emerge, maintain 70°F during the day and no lower than 60°F at night. Transplant them into 4-inch pots, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide plenty of light and feed with a diluted water-soluble fertilizer at half strength.
How to Care for Geranium
Geraniums aren’t fussy but thrive in moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Choose a container size that accommodates their full growth. While they tolerate shade, full sun ensures abundant blooms.
Let the soil dry out between waterings—check if the top few inches are dry before watering thoroughly. For prolific blooms, feed quarterly with water-soluble fish emulsion. Regular deadheading redirects energy into new growth instead of seed production, keeping your geraniums vibrant all season long.
