SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Geranium

Family: Geraniaceae Zonal Geranium
Zone 6b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Geranium to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Velvety blooms unfurl in a steady, sun-loving display, painting the garden with rich, saturated color and a softly ruffled charm.

The foliage forms a tidy mound of aromatic, finely textured leaves that holds its look from morning light to evening glow. Ideal for bright beds and window boxes, Geranium delivers nonstop floral presence for borders, mass plantings, and long-season color.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 90 DaysHabit: Upright

Botanical illustration of Geranium

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsFeb 14th
Last FrostApr 25th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsApr 11th
Harvest BeginsJul 10th
Harvest EndsOct 16th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity90
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)72
Min Soil Temp (°F)55
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)7

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Pelargonium × hortorum (geraniums), and how do I control it?
Blackleg and gray mold (Botrytis) are common, especially when leaves stay wet and air circulation is poor. Water at the soil line, remove any yellowing or spotted leaves, and space plants so foliage doesn’t stay damp between waterings. If you see gray fuzz or rapidly collapsing stems, discard heavily affected cuttings/starts and use a labeled fungicide for botrytis/gray mold per the product instructions.
How often should I water Pelargonium × hortorum during active growth?
During the main growing phase, water when the top 1 inch (2–3 cm) of soil feels dry, then water thoroughly until excess drains. In full sun, this often means watering about 2–3 times per week, but adjust to heat and container size so the soil doesn’t remain soggy. Pelargoniums prefer evenly moist—not wet—conditions; consistently wet soil can trigger root rot.
How can I tell when Pelargonium × hortorum is ready to harvest?
Pelargonium × hortorum isn’t typically harvested like a vegetable; instead, harvest by cutting for blooms or stems. For the best flowers, harvest when buds are fully colored but not fully open—snip just above a leaf node to encourage branching. If you’re growing for cuttings/foliage, harvest shoots once they are at least 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) long and actively growing, usually after establishment around the ~90-day mark for vigorous plants.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Geranium in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-11. Wait until soil reaches at least 55°F before transplanting Geranium.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Geranium.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Geranium in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-11. Wait until soil reaches at least 55°F before transplanting Geranium.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Geranium.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 55°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For the earliest dense bloom, start seed indoors in warmth and transplant only after nights are reliably mild and roots aren’t kept waterlogged.