WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
About a week after last frost, when nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Geraniums traveled from South Africa and were cultivated and marveled over in early glasshouses of the 1600s, and we love them still for their varied beautiful leaves and flower colors. Provide well-drained soils and allow the soil to dry before watering throughly. Deadhead spent flowers regularly and provide some afternoon shade in hot summer areas.
Watering Details:
1" per week is plenty; water when soil becomes noticeably dry down 2" down into pot. These plants do not like soggy conditions, but will flower more profusely if kept somewhat moist.
Fertilizer:
Fertilize twice a month with a balanced formulation such as 15-15-15.
Diseases & Pests:
Aphids, whiteflies and mealybugs can be troublesome, especially indoors; if detected, treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid botrytis by spacing properly, not wetting the foliage when watering, and keeping dead plant material, such as spent flowers and leaves, cleaned up. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent leaf spot; proper spacing and air-flow are also helpful.