Growing geraniums indoors opens up a world of possibilities for enjoying these vibrant, versatile plants throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to overwinter your outdoor favorites or create a permanent indoor garden, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about successfully growing geraniums as houseplants.
Understanding Indoor Geranium Varieties
Before diving into care instructions, it’s essential to know which geranium varieties thrive best indoors. While all geraniums can technically be grown inside, some varieties are particularly well-suited for indoor cultivation.
Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum)
These are the most popular indoor varieties, known for their distinctive leaf markings and reliable blooming habits. They come in various colors including:
- Vibrant reds and pinks
- Pure whites
- Rich salmons
- Delicate lavenders
- Bi-color varieties
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Ivy-Leaved Geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum)
These trailing varieties are ideal for:
- Hanging baskets
- Window boxes
- Shelf displays
- Vertical gardens
Their cascading growth habit makes them perfect for adding visual interest to any indoor space.
Martha Washington Geraniums (Pelargonium x domesticum)
These elegant varieties offer:
- Larger, showier blooms
- Unique color combinations
- Better performance in cooler indoor environments
- Extended flowering periods during winter months
Scented Geraniums
A delightful addition to any indoor collection, offering fragrances like:
- Rose
- Lemon
- Mint
- Apple
- Chocolate
- Nutmeg
Essential Growing Conditions for Indoor Geraniums
Light Requirements
Light is crucial for indoor geraniums to thrive and produce abundant blooms. Your plants need:
- 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
- South or west-facing window placement
- Supplemental grow lights if natural light is insufficient
Pro tip: If using artificial lighting, position LED grow lights 12-15 inches above the plants and run them for 14-16 hours daily.
Temperature Control
Indoor geraniums prefer moderate temperatures:
- Daytime: 65-70°F (18-21°C)
- Nighttime: Around 55°F (13°C)
- Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating/cooling vents
Humidity and Air Circulation
While geraniums aren’t particularly fussy about humidity, they benefit from:
- Moderate humidity levels (40-50%)
- Good air circulation to prevent disease
- Space between plants to promote airflow
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Soil and Container Requirements
Potting Medium
Success starts with the right soil mix:
- Use well-draining, loamy potting mix
- Ensure high organic matter content
- Consider adding perlite or coarse sand for better drainage
Container Selection
Choose containers that:
- Have adequate drainage holes
- Are appropriately sized (geraniums prefer to be slightly pot-bound)
- Are made of breathable materials like terracotta or ceramic
Watering and Fertilizing Indoor Geraniums
Proper Watering Techniques
One of the most critical aspects of indoor geranium care is proper watering:
- Allow soil to dry partially between waterings
- Water thoroughly until it drains from bottom
- Check soil moisture 4-6 inches deep
- Reduce watering during winter months
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Fertilization Schedule
Geraniums need regular feeding to maintain vibrant blooms:
- March through October: Feed every 2 weeks
- Winter months: Reduce to monthly feeding
- Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Consider slow-release options for consistent feeding
Pro tip: Always water plants before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular Pruning
Keep your indoor geraniums bushy and productive with proper pruning:
- Remove spent blooms promptly
- Pinch growing tips to encourage branching
- Cut back leggy stems by 1/2 to 2/3
- Clean pruning tools between cuts
Grab Pruning Shears
Seasonal Maintenance
- Spring: Heavy pruning and repotting if needed
- Summer: Regular deadheading and feeding
- Fall: Prepare for reduced growth period
- Winter: Maintain minimal care routine
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Troubleshooting Common Indoor Geranium Problems
Disease Prevention and Control
Watch for and prevent these common issues:
- Botrytis (Gray Mold)
- Symptoms: Gray fuzzy growth on leaves and flowers
- Prevention: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering
- Treatment: Remove affected parts, apply fungicide if needed
- Oedema
- Symptoms: Corky spots on leaves
- Prevention: Reduce watering, increase light
- Treatment: Adjust growing conditions
Recommended: fungicides
Pest Management
Common pests and solutions:
- Whiteflies and Aphids
- Inspection: Check undersides of leaves weekly
- Prevention: Regular cleaning, good air circulation
- Treatment: Insecticidal soap or neem oil
- Spider Mites
- Detection: Look for fine webbing
- Prevention: Maintain humidity
- Treatment: Miticides or horticultural oils
Overwintering Your Geraniums Indoors
Method 1: Active Growing
- Pot up plants before first frost
- Reduce fertilizer and water
- Provide bright indirect light
- Maintain cool temperatures
Method 2: Dormant Storage
- Clean plants and remove soil
- Store in paper bags in cool area (45-55°F)
- Check monthly for rotting
- Replant in spring
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do you keep geraniums alive indoors?
A: Success comes from providing adequate light (6-8 hours daily), proper watering (allow soil to partially dry between waterings), and maintaining appropriate temperatures (65-70°F daytime).
Q: Can you grow geraniums as houseplants?
A: Yes, geraniums make excellent houseplants when given proper care. They can bloom year-round with adequate light and regular fertilization.
Q: Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor geraniums?
A: The same geranium varieties can grow both indoors and outdoors. The main difference lies in their care requirements and adaptation to environmental conditions.
Q: What is the secret to growing geraniums?
A: The key is providing bright light, well-draining soil, proper watering, and regular feeding. Also, avoid overwatering and maintain good air circulation.
