Zonal Geraniums Plant Info

Zonal geraniums are annuals that have large flower clusters on tall stems. They get their name from the distinct bands of color on their foliage and have vibrant blooms that can brighten up any garden or indoor space. They’re easy to grow and maintain and come in a wide range of varieties and colors. 

Pelargonium hortorum
Geraniums
Horseshoe geraniums
Zonal pelargoniums
Orbit series
Maverick series
Americana series
Red, pink, white, salmon, orange, yellow, purple, or bicolored blooms

Water

Zonal geraniums need regular watering during the growing season, especially when grown in containers or hanging baskets. You should water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Hydrate once a week for outdoor plants and twice a week for indoor plants in summer, and once every 2 weeks for outdoor plants and once a week for indoor plants in winter.

Sunlight

The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sun to produce abundant and colorful flowers. It can tolerate partial shade, but this often results in fewer and smaller flowers. In hot and dry climates, provide it with some shade in the afternoon so it doesn’t get sunburnt or wilted. If you grow it indoors, put it near a bright window that gets sun or shade. You can also use extra lights, like fluorescent or LED lamps, to supplement the natural light.

Soil

Cultivate the plant in well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. They can grow in different types of soil–loam, sand, or clay–as long as they have good drainage and aeration. When growing in containers, plant them in a potting mix designed for flowering plants.

Fertilizer

Feed the plant with a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks during the growing season.

Pruning

Prune occassionaly to remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves, and shape the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Propagation

You can propagate by seed or cutting

Thrives in

Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, moderate moisture, and warm temperatures. They prefer a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5

Toxicity

Not toxic to humans or pet

Pests & Diseases

Aphids
Whiteflies
Caterpillars
Fungal diseases
Bacterial diseases
Viral diseases

Landscaping Ideas

Containers
Hanging baskets
Beds
Borders
Rock gardens
Alpine gardens
Window boxes
Hay racks

Last Updated: September 4, 2023

You May Also Like

New Guinea Impatiens

New Guinea Impatiens

New Guinea impatiens are a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a splash of color to their shady

Pincushion growing in ground

Pincushions

Pincushions are evergreen shrubs that belong to the protea family. They have leathery, green, and heart-shaped or toothed foliage with

Sago palm

Sago Palm

Sago palm is an ornamental plant that resembles a palm tree but is actually a cycad. It has long, stiff,

Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.