‘Geranium Assorted’ typically refers to a mix of ornamental plants from the Pelargonium genus, which are commonly, and botanically incorrectly, called geraniums. True geraniums, or ‘Cranesbills’, are a different group of hardy perennials. The more familiar garden ‘geraniums’ are known for their showy, long-lasting flowers that come in a huge range of colours, from bright reds and pinks to whites, purples, and oranges. They can have different growth habits, including upright bush varieties, trailing types (often called ‘Ivy-leaf Geraniums’), and even dwarf forms.
Usage These versatile plants are a staple in many Australian gardens. Upright varieties are perfect for mass planting in garden beds, creating a burst of continuous colour. Trailing types are an excellent choice for hanging baskets, window boxes, and large pots, where they can spill over the edges. They are also widely used as indoor houseplants, adding a pop of colour to a bright room or sunny windowsill. Their long flowering season makes them a fantastic choice for providing consistent colour throughout the warmer months.
Care Tips
- Sunlight: Prefers a position with full sun to partial shade. To ensure a prolific bloom, they need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Too much shade will result in leggy plants with fewer flowers.
- Soil: Requires well-drained soil. If you’re using a pot, a quality potting mix for flowering plants is best. Good drainage is critical to prevent root rot.
- Watering: Water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out a bit between waterings. These plants are relatively drought-tolerant once established and don’t like ‘wet feet’. It’s best to water the soil directly and avoid getting the leaves and flowers wet, which can encourage fungal diseases.
- Fertilising: To encourage a continuous flush of flowers, feed regularly with a liquid fertiliser formulated for flowering plants (e.g., a high-potassium fertiliser) every two to four weeks during the main growing season (spring and summer).
- Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining a tidy, bushy habit and promoting more blooms. ‘Deadhead’ spent flowers by pinching or cutting off the entire flower stem at its base. You can also prune back leggy stems to encourage branching.
- Overwintering: In colder climates, garden ‘geraniums’ can be lifted and stored indoors as bare-rooted plants or cuttings over winter. In milder climates, they can often be left in the garden or treated as a perennial.
- Pests & Diseases: Watch out for common pests like aphids, caterpillars, and whitefly. Fungal issues like rust and botrytis can occur, especially in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
