Geraniums: Classic Container Color
Pelargonium × hortorum
Geraniums (pelargoniums) are the backbone of window-box and patio-pot plantings. They shrug off heat, tolerate drought better than most annuals, and bloom from spring through frost. Easy to overwinter indoors.
Specifications
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Hardiness zones
- Annual (perennial 9–11)
- Height
- 1–3 ft
- Bloom time
- Late spring to frost
Care & growing tips
Plant in well-drained potting mix. Let soil dry between waterings — overwatering causes yellow leaves. Deadhead by snapping flower stems at the base. Bring pots indoors before frost to overwinter in a bright window.
Companion plants
03Find geraniums in your zone
03Zone-specific care, planting windows, and alternatives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
01 How do I overwinter geraniums indoors?
Bring pots inside before first frost. Place in a bright window, water sparingly (let soil dry between waterings), stop fertilizing. Some gardeners cut them back to 6 inches and store dormant in a cool basement at 45–55°F. Resume watering in late winter.
02 Why are my geranium leaves turning yellow?
Lower leaves yellowing is normal aging — pinch them off. If most leaves yellow, it's usually overwatering. Let soil dry between waterings. Yellow with brown spots signals bacterial leaf spot; remove affected leaves and improve airflow.
03 Do geraniums need deadheading?
Yes for continuous bloom. Snap off spent flower stems at the base where they meet the main stem — not just the flower head. This prevents seed formation and keeps the plant producing new flower clusters all summer.