I have many outdoor pots in my patio area that I like to fill with geraniums…
Donna Asked
I have many outdoor pots in my patio area that I like to fill with geraniums, petunias, spikes, vinca vine, and lantana. The problem is that everything grows very well, but this summer the geraniums did not get to their large size. Was there anything that I could have done to make the geraniums grow and bloom frequently? I did put Miracle Grow on them but it didn’t seem to help.
The Gardener’s Answer
It sounds like you have a lovely patio. Containers are such a great way to add plant material to a space that doesn’t allow for digging. I like the potential character and structure they can add to a space.
Is it just the geraniums that are not blooming? Have you noticed any unhealthy foliage? Geraniums can have disease issues, but if the foliage looks healthy, we can rule this out.
All plants perform their best when grown in optimal conditions and each individual plant has its own specific requirements. Geraniums prefer to be grown in full sun. Six hours minimum is ideal and any less can reduce flowering. They are heavy feeders and to obtain continuous flowering they benefit from continual feeding throughout the summer, but no more than product recommendations since too much fertilizer can prevent flowering.
Deadheading spent flowers/stems will encourage more blooms and make the plants look tidier. Healthy and productive plants start with healthy, well-drained soil. Container grown plants should be potted with soil that is made specifically for this purpose. Top/garden soil is too heavy and will not allow for good drainage. These are all just thoughts on why your geraniums didn’t bloom well. I hope one of them sparks a thought.
