How to Grow Geranium in Ohio

Geraniums are a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners in Ohio. Known for their vibrant colors and ability to thrive in various conditions, geraniums can add beauty to gardens, patios, and homes. This article will guide you through the process of growing geraniums successfully in Ohio, covering everything from selecting the right variety to care tips and pest management.

Understanding Geranium Varieties

Before planting, it’s essential to understand the different types of geraniums. While many people refer to Pelargoniums as geraniums, true geraniums belong to the genus Geranium. Here are some varieties commonly grown in Ohio:

1. Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum): These are the most common type found in gardens, characterized by their rounded leaves and vibrant blooms. They bloom continuously throughout the summer.

2. Ivy-Leaved Geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum): Known for their trailing habit, these geraniums are perfect for hanging baskets or cascading over containers.

3. Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.): With leaves that emit pleasant fragrances when crushed, these varieties have aromatic oils that can be used in cooking or for potpourri.

4. Hardy Geraniums (Geranium spp.): These are perennial plants that can survive Ohio winters, adding structure and color to gardens year after year.

Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the right location for your geraniums is crucial for their growth and overall health:

• Sunlight: Geraniums thrive best in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you’re planting them in a garden bed, look for a spot that receives ample sunlight.

• Soil Drainage: Poor drainage can lead to root rot, so ensure your planting area has well-drained soil. If your garden soil retains water, consider planting in raised beds or using containers with drainage holes.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting geraniums, it’s essential to prepare the soil properly:

1. Testing Soil pH: Geraniums prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0). You can use a soil testing kit from a local extension office or garden center to determine your soil’s pH.

2. Amending Soil: If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, amend it with lime or sulfur accordingly. Additionally, mixing organic matter like compost or peat moss can help improve soil structure and nutrient content.

3. Tilling: Loosen the top 12 inches of soil with a tiller or shovel, breaking up any clumps and removing rocks or debris.

Planting Geraniums

Now that you’ve prepared the soil, it’s time to plant your geraniums:

Timing

In Ohio, wait until after the last frost date (usually around mid-May) before planting outdoor geraniums. If you’re starting from seeds indoors, begin about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.

Planting Process

1. Spacing: When planting zonal geraniums or ivy-leafed varieties in the garden, space them about 12-18 inches apart to allow adequate air circulation.

2. Depth: Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and gently place the plant in it so that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above ground level.

3. Watering: After planting, water thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.

Caring for Your Geraniums

Watering

Proper watering is vital for healthy geranium growth:

• Water your geraniums when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Avoid overhead watering; instead, water at the base of the plants to prevent fungal diseases.
• Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses for consistent moisture without overwatering.

Fertilizing

Geraniums benefit from regular feeding during their growing season:

• Use a balanced fertilizer high in phosphorus (the middle number on fertilizer packages) every 4-6 weeks.
• You can also apply a slow-release fertilizer at planting time to ensure continuous feeding throughout the growing season.

Pruning

Pruning helps maintain shape and encourages bushier growth:

• Pinch back leggy stems and spent flowers regularly to promote new blooms.
• For overwintering plants indoors, cut back foliage by about one-third before bringing them inside.

Pest Management

Geraniums can attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies:

Preventive Measures

1. Healthy Plants: Start with disease-free plants from reputable sources.
2. Companion Planting: Consider planting marigolds nearby; their natural compounds repel pests.
3. Diversity: Growing a mixture of plants can deter specific pests from targeting your geraniums.

Treatment Options

If you encounter pest problems, various treatments are available:

1. Insecticidal Soap: This organic option targets soft-bodied insects without harming beneficial insects.
2. Neem Oil: This natural pesticide disrupts insects’ life cycles while being safe for plants.
3. Manual Removal: For minor infestations, regularly checking and removing pests by hand can be effective.

Overwintering Geraniums

In Ohio’s cold winters, if you want your geraniums to survive until next spring:

1. Indoor Transfer: Before temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), bring potted geraniums indoors.
2. Light Requirements: Place them in a sunny window where they can receive plenty of light.
3. Watering: Reduce watering frequency during winter months as their growth will slow down significantly.

For hardy geranium varieties planted outdoors, mulching around their base can protect roots during winter months while allowing some flexibility against frost heave.

Conclusion

Growing geraniums in Ohio can be a rewarding endeavor due to their stunning colors and ease of care. By selecting appropriate varieties, preparing your soil correctly, providing proper care through watering and fertilizing, managing pests effectively, and knowing how to overwinter them successfully — you’ll enjoy a beautiful display of flowers throughout much of the year.

Whether you’re enhancing your garden beds or adding a vibrant touch to your patio with hanging baskets or containers, following these guidelines will help you cultivate healthy and thriving geranium plants that brighten your outdoor space!