Tender Geraniums Pictures

Tender Geraniums: A Guide to Growing and Caring for These Beautiful Flowers

Flowers are a symbol of beauty and grace, and they come in a variety of shapes and colors. One of the most popular and beloved flowers is the tender geranium. Tender geraniums are a type of flowering plant that are native to South Africa, but they are now grown all over the world. They are known for their bright colors and delicate petals, and they make a great addition to any garden or flower bed. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about growing and caring for tender geraniums.

What are Tender Geraniums?

Tender geraniums, also known as pelargoniums, are a type of flowering plant that belong to the family Geraniaceae. They are native to South Africa, but they are now grown all over the world. Tender geraniums are known for their bright colors and delicate petals, which can range from white to pink, red, and even purple. They are popular in gardens and flower beds, and they are often used as houseplants as well.

How to Grow Tender Geraniums

Growing tender geraniums is relatively easy, and they can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are the steps to grow tender geraniums:

Step 1: Choose a Location

Tender geraniums need plenty of sunlight to grow, so it is important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They also need well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not too wet.

Step 2: Plant the Geraniums

Once you have chosen a location, it is time to plant the geraniums. You can either plant them in the ground or in a container. If you are planting them in the ground, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. If you are planting them in a container, choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.

Step 3: Water the Geraniums

Tender geraniums need to be watered regularly, but they do not like to be overwatered. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, but make sure the soil is not too wet.

Step 4: Fertilize the Geraniums

Tender geraniums need to be fertilized regularly to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. You can use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Step 5: Prune the Geraniums

Tender geraniums need to be pruned regularly to promote healthy growth and to prevent them from becoming too leggy. You can prune them back by one-third in the spring, and then again in the summer if they start to look too leggy.

Caring for Tender Geraniums

Caring for tender geraniums is relatively easy, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure they stay healthy and vibrant. Here are some tips for caring for tender geraniums:

Tip 1: Water Regularly

Tender geraniums need to be watered regularly, but they do not like to be overwatered. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, but make sure the soil is not too wet.

Tip 2: Fertilize Regularly

Tender geraniums need to be fertilized regularly to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. You can use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Tip 3: Prune Regularly

Tender geraniums need to be pruned regularly to promote healthy growth and to prevent them from becoming too leggy. You can prune them back by one-third in the spring, and then again in the summer if they start to look too leggy.

Tip 4: Protect from Frost

Tender geraniums are not frost-tolerant, so they need to be protected from frost. If you live in a colder climate, you may need to bring your tender geraniums indoors during the winter months.

Tip 5: Watch for Pests and Diseases

Tender geraniums can be susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of trouble. Some common pests that can affect tender geraniums include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that can affect tender geraniums include powdery mildew and gray mold.

Varieties of Tender Geraniums

Tender geraniums come in a variety of shapes and colors, and there are many different varieties to choose from. Here are some popular varieties of tender geraniums:

Zonal Geraniums

Zonal geraniums are one of the most popular varieties of tender geraniums. They are known for their bright colors and distinctive zonal markings on their leaves.

Ivy Geraniums

Ivy geraniums are known for their trailing growth habit and their delicate blooms. They are often used in hanging baskets and window boxes.

Regal Geraniums

Regal geraniums are known for their large, showy blooms and their bright colors. They are often used in formal gardens and flower beds.

Scented Geraniums

Scented geraniums are known for their fragrant leaves, which can smell like lemon, rose, or peppermint. They are often used in herb gardens and as houseplants.

Conclusion

Tender geraniums are a beautiful and popular flower that can add a splash of color to any garden or flower bed. They are relatively easy to grow and care for, and they come in a variety of shapes and colors. Whether you choose zonal geraniums, ivy geraniums, regal geraniums, or scented geraniums, you are sure to enjoy the beauty and grace of these lovely flowers.