PLANTING: Set out plants 12 to 15 inches apart in a sunny situation and in virtually any light, well-drained soil. Once established, geraniums will tolerate periods of drought, but perform optimally in moisture-retentive soils; we recommend a summer mulch, especially during the spring flush of growth and where summers are quite warm. Some species will tolerate light or partial shade.
MAINTENANCE: Geraniums will take about two years to become fully established. Once they’ve done so, they’ll quickly grow and colonize. An annual top-dressing with a balanced fertilizer or compost is beneficial and will improve flower production. Divide as it becomes necessary. Zones 3-8.
Where to plant: Light Requirements: Full Sun
Moisture Requirements: Moist, Well-drained
Soil Tolerance: Normal, Loamy
Spacing: Habit: Mound Shaped, Height 16 in – 24 in, Width 18 in – 24 in
Uses: Border, Containers, Ornamental, Outdoor, Fall Color
Bloom Start to End: Early Summer - Late Summer
Return to Jackson & Perkins Perennial Care Guide
Are geraniums a perennial or an annual? Perennial geraniums (hardy geranium, cranesbill) can be confused with a completely separate genus called Pelargoniums which are hardy in only Zones 10 and 11.