How to grow amazing colorful geraniums

How to grow geraniums (pelargoniums)

Geraniums (also known as pelargoniums) are popular bedding plants, providing a burst of colour or fragrance throughout summer. They’re easy to grow and thrive in terracotta pots as well as traditional bedding displays. They work well planted or their own or combined with other plants such as lavender and nemesia. Some types of geranium are perfect for growing in hanging baskets.

As well as offering beautiful blooms, some geraniums, known as scented-leaf geraniums, have fragrant leaves. Choose from apple, orange, lemon, spice or lavender. They’re often sold as herbs as the leaves are edible.

Jump to Best geraniums to grow

Geranium: plant profile
Botanical name: Pelargonium
Common name: Geranium
Plant type: Perennial, conservatory
Flower colours: Pink, red, purple, bronze, white
Plant in: April-May
Flowers in: May-October
Prune in: October
Sun exposure: Full sun
Hardiness: Half hardy / tender
Soil type: Acidic / chalky / alkaline / well drained / light / sandy
Toxicity: Can be toxic to cats and dogs

Growing conditions vary slightly depending on the variety of geranium.

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What’s the difference between geraniums and pelargoniums?
All plants have a species or Latin name, as well as a common name. ‘Geranium’ is the common name for the species Pelargonium. Confusingly, ‘Geranium’ is also the botanical name of hardy geraniums, also known as cranesbills or ‘true geraniums’. Despite sharing a common name, geraniums (pelargoniums) and cranesbills (geraniums) are different species, and have different growing requirements.

Looking for hardy geraniums? See our hardy geraniums Grow Guide.

How to grow geraniums
Grow geraniums in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Cut back in late summer and take cuttings to insure against winter losses. Most geraniums need protection in winter –