Are Geraniums Perennial Plants?

When Do Geraniums Grow?

Geraniums are known for their vibrant blooms, typically growing during the warmer months of spring and summer. The growing season begins as the weather warms in spring, with the plants developing lush foliage and bright flowers as temperatures rise. In the UK, geraniums usually start to grow after the last frost, often in late April to early May, and they continue to flourish through the summer months until the colder weather arrives. However, the specific growth timeline can depend on the variety of geranium and the local climate.

When Is Best to Plant Geraniums?

The best time to plant geraniums is in the spring, once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Planting them after the last frost ensures that the plants will have ample time to establish strong roots and produce vibrant flowers throughout the summer. Geraniums should be planted in well-drained soil, with plenty of sunlight, to encourage healthy growth. Early spring, after the last frost, is ideal for both outdoor planting and repotting indoor geraniums.

Are There Different Types of Geranium?

Yes, there are many different types of geraniums, including both annual and perennial varieties. The most commonly grown types are Pelargonium (often referred to as "zonal geraniums" or "stove geraniums") and Geranium (often called "hardy geraniums" or "cranesbills"). Pelargoniums are typically annuals, while Geraniums (the hardy variety) are perennial. There are also different varieties within each type, with a wide range of flower colours, sizes, and shapes to suit different garden styles. Hardy geraniums are popular for their long-lasting blooms, while zonal geraniums are often used as bedding plants or for container gardening.

Can You Grow Geraniums Indoors as Well as in the Garden?

Yes, geraniums can be grown both indoors and in the garden, making them versatile plants for a range of environments. Indoor geraniums, particularly Pelargoniums, can thrive in bright, sunny windowsills, where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. When grown indoors, geraniums may need to be watered more carefully to avoid overwatering, as they dry out faster in pots. Outside, geraniums can be planted in garden beds, borders, or containers, where they will flourish in full sunlight and well-drained soil. Just be sure to bring them indoors before the first frost if you want to continue growing them in colder months.

How to Care for Geraniums in Winter

Geraniums are not frost-tolerant, so special care is needed in winter. For outdoor geraniums, it's important to either dig up and pot the plants for indoor storage or to provide protection by covering them with frost cloths or mulching them heavily to shield them from the cold. Indoor geraniums should be moved to a cooler space with plenty of light and should be watered sparingly during the winter months. It's also a good time to trim back any leggy growth and remove any dead or diseased leaves to encourage fresh growth in the spring.

Can You Regrow Geraniums from Cuttings?

Yes, geraniums can easily be regrown from cuttings, making them a great plant to propagate. To take a cutting, use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut a healthy stem just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few leaves at the top of the cutting, and place it in a small pot with moist compost or perlite. After a few weeks, the cutting will develop roots, and you can transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the garden. This method is especially useful for keeping your favourite geranium varieties for the next growing season.

Is There a Difference Between Perennial Geraniums and Hardy Geraniums?

The terms "perennial geraniums" and "hardy geraniums" are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight distinction. Perennial geraniums refer to any geraniums that come back year after year, surviving through the winter. Hardy geraniums, on the other hand, specifically refer to certain varieties of Geranium that are capable of withstanding colder climates and frost, making them more suitable for outdoor gardening in regions with harsh winters. Both types of geraniums are long-lasting, but hardy geraniums are particularly suited for gardens in colder areas, as they can survive freezing temperatures and still bloom the following season.

Longevity and Growth Cycle

Perennial geraniums generally live for several years, unlike annual geraniums, which only grow for one season. Hardy geraniums will continue to grow and bloom year after year, typically reaching their peak bloom in the second or third year after planting. Over time, they may spread and form dense clumps, which can be divided to propagate new plants. The longevity of perennial geraniums makes them an excellent choice for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants that don't require replanting every season.

Maintenance and Deadheading

To keep geraniums looking their best, regular maintenance is important. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, encourages the plant to produce new blooms and prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production. This can extend the flowering period of your geraniums throughout the growing season. Perennial geraniums tend to bloom in late spring to summer, depending on the variety, so removing dead flowers can keep the plant looking tidy and vibrant.

Division and Propagation

One of the advantages of perennial geraniums is that they can be divided to create more plants. Every 2-3 years, as the plant matures, you can divide the root clumps in early spring or late autumn. This will not only give you more geraniums to plant in other areas but will also rejuvenate the plant, encouraging healthier growth and more abundant blooms. Be sure to use a sharp spade to carefully split the plant into sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system before replanting.

Companion Plants

Geraniums make great companions for many other garden plants. Because of their low-growing nature, they work well as ground cover or in borders, alongside taller plants like roses, peonies, or shrubs. Hardy geraniums also blend beautifully with other perennials such as lavender, sage, and daylilies. Their foliage often turns a vibrant colour in the autumn, providing additional interest in the garden during the fall months. They can be particularly effective in cottage gardens, where they add a natural, informal look.

Attracting Pollinators

Perennial geraniums are fantastic for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The bright, colourful flowers are rich in nectar, making them a valuable addition to any garden aiming to support local wildlife. If you're looking to create a pollinator-friendly garden, planting a few varieties of geraniums will help draw these essential creatures, which will, in turn, help improve the health and productivity of other plants in your garden.

Climate Considerations

While perennial geraniums are generally hardy and can tolerate a range of growing conditions, it's important to choose the right variety for your climate. Some varieties are more tolerant of heat and drought, while others thrive in cooler, shadier conditions. For example, Geranium macrorrhizum (big root geranium) is particularly drought-tolerant and can handle dry conditions, while Geranium pratense (meadow cranesbill) prefers slightly moist soil. Before planting, make sure the variety you're selecting is suitable for your local climate and growing conditions.

Soil and Water Requirements

Perennial geraniums are not particularly fussy about soil, but they do best in well-drained, moderately rich soil. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil but can tolerate a variety of pH levels. Geraniums need regular watering, especially during dry spells, but they do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Once established, perennial geraniums are fairly drought-tolerant, but they will thrive with consistent, moderate moisture.

Winter Care for Perennial Geraniums

Even though perennial geraniums are cold-hardy, they can still benefit from some winter care. In areas with harsh winters, mulching around the base of the plant with straw, leaves, or compost can help protect the roots from freezing. This is especially useful for newly planted geraniums or in regions where the temperatures drop significantly. In spring, after the last frost, it’s a good idea to trim back any dead or damaged foliage to encourage fresh, new growth.