Sowing and care notes
Pelargonium × hortorum seeds prefer warm, bright conditions for germination. Start indoors in warmth before the last frost, using a free-draining, moderately fertile mix; sow shallowly and keep just moist, never waterlogged. In mild, frost-free climates, sow or plant when nights are reliably warm. Harden off and transplant after frost danger has passed, spacing to allow good air flow. Grow in full sun to light shade and water when the top of the compost begins to dry, avoiding wet roots. Feed lightly during active growth. Pinch young tips to encourage a compact habit and deadhead spent blooms. Plants are generally compact to medium in height.
- Start in warmth before the last frost; transplant after frost danger has passed; in mild, frost-free climates, sow when nights are reliably warm.
- Provide full sun to light shade and a well-drained, moderately fertile mix; avoid waterlogging.
- Suitable for containers; ensure ample drainage.
- Grown for ornamental display of foliage and blooms.
- Potentially toxic if ingested; sap may irritate sensitive skin.
How do I grow zonal geraniums (Pelargonium × hortorum) from seed?
Sow Pelargonium × hortorum seeds indoors in a warm, bright spot using a sterile, free-draining seed mix. Lightly cover or surface-sow depending on seed supplier guidance, then keep evenly moist (never waterlogged). Warmth speeds germination, which typically occurs within 1–3 weeks. Provide strong light immediately to prevent stretching. Transplant seedlings to individual cells or small pots once they have true leaves, keep growth steady with good airflow, and harden off gradually before planting outside after frost risk has passed and nights are reliably warm.
When should I sow Pelargonium × hortorum seeds in relation to frost?
Start seeds indoors well before the last expected frost so plants are sturdy by outdoor planting time; many growers allow roughly 10–14 weeks from sowing to flowering size. Move transplants outside only after all danger of frost has passed and when nights are consistently mild. In frost-free, mild climates, sow or plant when temperatures are stable and the soil is warm, avoiding cool, damp periods that slow establishment.
What soil and sun do Pelargonium × hortorum need?
These zonal geraniums thrive in full sun to light shade and prefer a well-drained, moderately fertile soil; avoid waterlogging at all times. In hotter summers, light afternoon shade helps maintain flower quality. Amend heavy ground with grit or compost to improve drainage, or use a free-draining container mix with added perlite. Water deeply but infrequently, letting the top layer of soil dry slightly between waterings, and reduce watering in cool or dull weather. Steady, light feeding during active growth supports blooms without creating lush, weak foliage.
How far apart should I space bedding geraniums, and how tall do they grow?
Allow generous airflow and avoid crowding. Space compact bedding varieties about 25–30 cm apart, and medium types 30–40 cm apart, adjusting for the vigor of your chosen cultivar. Most Pelargonium × hortorum stay compact to medium in size, typically reaching 20–45 cm tall with a similar spread under good light. Pinching young plants once or twice encourages branching and a fuller display, especially in bedding schemes and containers.
How do I prevent leggy geranium seedlings when starting seeds indoors?
Provide intense, consistent light from germination onward—brightest window or grow lights for 12–16 hours daily—keeping lights close to the canopy without overheating. Use warm conditions for sprouting, then slightly cooler, bright conditions for stocky growth. Avoid overwatering and high nitrogen early on, give seedlings space so they are not shaded, and ensure gentle airflow. Pot on promptly when roots fill the cell, and pinch once seedlings have 4–6 true leaves to promote bushy, compact plants.
Are Pelargoniums toxic to pets?
Pelargonium × hortorum is considered potentially toxic to pets if leaves or stems are chewed or ingested, and contact may cause irritation in sensitive animals. To reduce risk, place plants where pets cannot easily reach them and promptly tidy fallen foliage. If you keep curious animals, consider positioning geraniums in elevated containers or protected beds and selecting alternative plants for high-traffic pet areas.
This site provides general cultivation guidance based on typical horticultural practice. Conditions vary by microclimate, soil type, exposure, and rainfall, so timing (e.g., after last frost, when soil is workable, or in mild climates autumn sowing may be possible) may need adjustment. Product pages contain the most accurate, variety-specific requirements, including spacing, depth, and sowing windows, reflecting the latest supplier information and testing.
How to Sow and Grow Pelargonium × hortorum
Pelargonium × hortorum seeds appreciate warmth and light for germination. Sow shallowly on the surface of a fine, free-draining medium and barely cover; maintain 20–24°C and gentle, even moisture, avoiding saturation. Expect emergence in 7–21 days. Start indoors when the soil outdoors is still cool, then transplant after last frost. Space 25–30 cm apart in full sun to bright partial shade. Provide well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; avoid heavy, waterlogged sites. Pinching young tips encourages compact, branching plants; remove spent blooms to prolong display. Water when the top of the mix begins to dry, allowing slight drying between irrigations; feed with a balanced, dilute fertiliser during active growth. In containers, choose a porous medium and ensure good airflow. Where winters are frost-free, plants may be short-lived perennials; elsewhere, treat as warm-season bedding. More on varieties and cultivation is provided by SeedsChoice.
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