Geranium

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 90d to harvest Upright

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

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 12th
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 9th
Harvest Begins	Jun 7th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	72
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	7

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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.

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.

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.