Geranium Blog

How To Grow Scented Geraniums

Pelargonium 'Clorinda' (forest scented)

Easy care is undoubtedly a factor in the scented geranium's popularity. Ranging from 1 to 3 feet tall, they are suitable for pots, planters, and hanging baskets. Here are the basics:

• Give full sun fall, winter and spring, but in summer, half-day sun is generally plenty.
• Water thoroughly and deeply when you water, but then allow the soil to dry to about 1" deep before watering again.
• Tender perennial. Bring inside or place in sheltered location when overnight temperatures drop below 32 degrees F.
• Use a good quality potting soil and provide excellent drainage.

Attack of the Budworms

Oh, the heartbreak! Actually, it's not that bad - only three zonal geraniums are involved and none of the scented geraniums. I sprayed all of them with BT on Friday. This article - Budworm--Bad Bug - suggests also using an insecticide with pyrethrin, changing the potting soil in the fall and handpicking the worms in the evening.

March Geranium To Do List

March certainly did arrive like a lion, but I now feel confident of Spring's imminent arrival. Might as well do something constructive while enjoying the opportunity to get outside in nice weather! Here is my list of garden tasks for scented geraniums across the southern United States:

• Pruning and clean-up should be complete. If not, get busy! Remove any dead or unhealthy leaves and stems.
• Root cuttings from your prunings. You can ensure that you always have a lovely gift plant ready for the right occasion and prevent the tragic unexpected loss of a beloved plant by having backups.
• Repot or transplant as needed. If not repotting, add a bit of fresh potting soil to the pot to replace any soil that has washed out over time.
• Fertilize! Your pelargoniums need a boost of good nutrition to start growing anew. I use Miracle Gro 15-30-15 mixed 1 Tbsp/gallon water every 2 or 3 weeks. My mother swears by the time release plant food for her container plants. Follow the directions of whatever you choose to use and maybe use a little restraint.
• Visit the Links page. I have added new links for scented geranium recipes and crafts. You're going to say, "I could do that!"