Geranium Hanging Basket Care for Beginners

Geraniums are one of the most popular flowers used in hanging baskets, particularly during the summer months. Below is a detailed guide on geranium hanging basket care.

As much as they bring a beautiful pop of color to any outdoor space or garden, it’s important that proper care is taken to ensure your ivy geranium plants remain healthy and attractive for as long as possible.

Let’s take a closer look at geranium hanging basket care below.

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What are in These Hanging Baskets?

Geraniums, (genus Geranium), are originally from South Africa that grow ivy-shaped leaves with plenty of colorful flowers. Geraniums are low-maintenance plants that are perfect for hanging baskets.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so there’s sure to be one that matches your garden aesthetic.

Types of Common Geraniums

There are several main types of geraniums. Add some of these shade-loving plants in flower baskets.

Common Geraniums
Zonal Geraniums
Ivy Geraniums
Regal Geraniums
Annual Geraniums

Common geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum) are the most recognizable type of geranium, with large petals in shades of white, pink, purple or red. They require full sun and regular watering to stay healthy.

These perennial plants will grow up to two feet tall, so they make a great addition to hanging baskets.

Zonal geraniums (Pelargonium zonale) are another popular type of geranium. These plants have bright colors and dark centers, and grow in a bushy shape. They require full sun and regular watering, but can also tolerate some shade.

Ivy-leaved geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) look like ivy, with soft, rounded foliage and small flowers. They prefer partial shade and tolerate dry conditions well. They often have a trailing habit that makes them perfect for hanging baskets.

Regal geraniums (Pelargonium × domesticum) look like common geraniums but with larger blooms. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, red and white flowers. They prefer full sun and regular watering to stay healthy.

Finally, annual geraniums (Pelargonium x domesticum) are the most common type of geranium used in hanging baskets. These plants have densely packed petals in shades of pink, red or salmon. They require full sun and water regularly.

Geranium Hanging Basket Care Tips

For geranium hanging baskets to flourish, there needs to be plenty of light, particularly direct sunlight or full sun. It is also important to keep them watered regularly and to make sure the soil does not dry out completely.

If you are using a slow-release fertilizer, this should be added every two weeks to ensure the geraniums stay healthy.

Deadheading should also be done regularly as it helps promote new growth and flowers. Pinch off faded flowers at the base of the stem and remove any yellowed or wilted leaves.

How to Grow Different Types of Geraniums

The best way to grow different types of geraniums is to start from seeds. This allows you to control how much fertilizer and water each plant gets, as well as ensure that they get enough sunlight.

When starting from seed, it is important to keep the soil moist and to place the plants in an area where they will get plenty of sunlight. If you are growing a trailing variety, make sure there is something nearby for them to climb on.

Sun and Water Requirements

When it comes to watering geraniums, it is important to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Depending on the variety and age of the plant, they may need more or less water.

Generally speaking, geraniums should be watered every other day in hotter climates and you will want to water plants three times a week in cooler climates.

Geraniums also need plenty of sunshine to stay healthy and vigorous. Most varieties prefer a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight each day, however, some will do well in partial shade. Make sure your planting beds are in a sunny location, and your ivy geraniums will be fine.

Best Soil and Fertilizer for Geraniums

The best soil for geraniums is a well-drained soil that contains plenty of organic matter. A good potting mix with some added sand should work fine.

When it comes to fertilizing, slow-release pellets are the way to go as they provide a steady source of nutrients over time. Fertilize your geraniums with a slow-release fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

A water-soluble fertilizer also works well to ensure fresh flowers and healthy, green leaves also.

Best Pots for These Container Plants

Geraniums do best in pots with plenty of drainage holes. Good drainage will help prevent root rot and other issues.

Plastic, clay, or terracotta large pots all work well as long as they are large enough to accommodate the root system of the plant. Your new plants can also add some color around your home if you have or purchase window boxes.

How to Deadhead Geraniums

Deadheading geraniums can help promote new growth and flowers, as well as keep the plants looking neat and tidy. To deadhead geraniums, pinch off faded flowers at the base of the stem and remove any yellowed or wilted leaves.

It is important to remember that geraniums will benefit from regular deadheading in order for them to remain healthy and attractive. It is also a good idea to deadhead geraniums since this will encourage healthy flower buds and more new flowers for you to enjoy.

How to Propagate Geraniums

Propagating geraniums is a simple process and one that should be done during the spring when there are plenty of flowering stems. To propagate, start by removing a healthy, long stem with at least two or three leaves from the main plant.

Cut just below the lowest node, where the leaves were attached, and remove any additional foliage. Dip the end in rooting hormone and place it in a pot of moist soil.

Cover the pot with plastic and keep it in a warm, bright location until roots begin to form. Once roots have grown, you can transplant the geraniums into larger containers or hanging baskets as desired.

Pre-Planted Hanging Baskets Care

If you’ve purchased a pre-planted hanging basket of geraniums, the best way to keep it looking great is to deadhead regularly. This will help promote new growth and flowers throughout the season.

Water your geraniums whenever the soil feels dry to the touch and make sure they are in a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Common Pests and Diseases

Geraniums are generally quite hardy plants but they can be affected by various pests and diseases. Common problems include aphids, thrips, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, and slugs.

It is important to identify the problem early so that it can be addressed quickly. A strong spray of water should help get rid of most pests but if the infestation is more severe then stronger measures may need to be taken.

Fungal diseases can also affect geraniums, particularly if the plants are overwatered or if there is not enough air circulation in the area. Powdery mildew and root rot are two of the most common fungal problems that can affect geraniums.

If you notice any signs of disease, it is important to take action quickly as this can help prevent it from spreading to other plants.