Do Geraniums Need Fertilizer?
Just like any other plant, geraniums need a little extra help to thrive, and that includes regular feeding to keep them healthy.
If you’re planning to transplant your geraniums, it’s important to prepare the new spot properly to make sure it has everything they need to grow strong. Using nutrient-rich soil or a good potting mix is key to minimizing transplant shock.
Young geranium plants, in particular, benefit from fertilizers that help them develop strong root systems. Let’s dive into more about why and how you should fertilize geraniums.
How Often Should You Fertilize Geraniums?
Geraniums are heavy feeders, meaning they need regular feeding as they grow. For already established plants, you should fertilize them every four weeks or so.
If you’re not into frequent fertilizing, go for fertilizers that slowly release nutrients over time. These are convenient and don’t need reapplication as often.
The soil plays a big role too. If you’ve added compost or manure, you might not need to fertilize right away since the natural organisms in the soil will do a lot of the work for you.
Fertilizing Outdoor Geraniums
If you keep your geraniums outside, they will need a good fertilizer to keep them healthy through the seasons. Liquid fertilizers are often the best for geraniums because they’re absorbed quickly. An all-purpose 20-20-20 fertilizer will work well since it contains the three key nutrients geraniums need: potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen.
But here’s a tip: it’s always best to do a soil test before buying any fertilizer. This will tell you what your soil is missing and help you pick the best fertilizer. Also, try applying the fertilizer in the morning or evening when it’s cooler to avoid burning the plants.
Fertilizing Indoor Geraniums
Indoor geraniums don’t need as much fertilizer since they’re not exposed to the harsh conditions that outdoor plants face. However, potted plants will eventually run out of nutrients if they aren’t regularly fed.
When you first pot your geraniums, make sure they’re in good soil, and you won’t need to worry about fertilizer until the plant is well-established. Once that happens, feed your geraniums once a month or every two weeks, depending on your plant’s needs.
What’s the Best Fertilizer for Geraniums
As mentioned, liquid fertilizers are ideal for geraniums because they’re quickly absorbed. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label, especially when it comes to dilution and frequency. Too much fertilizer can harm your plant, so it’s important to use it properly.
If your soil is nutrient-poor, you might want to use a fertilizer with extra nutrients like calcium, magnesium, or sulfur along with the usual nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK).
Final Thoughts
While geraniums can grow in good soil without much extra care, if you want to enjoy vibrant, blooming plants, fertilizing them will really make a difference. Both indoor and outdoor geraniums will thrive with the right kind of fertilizer.
✅ Conclusion
While geraniums can grow in good soil without much extra care, if you want to enjoy vibrant, blooming plants, fertilizing them will really make a difference. Both indoor and outdoor geraniums will thrive with the right kind of fertilizer. Regular feeding, proper soil, and the right timing will ensure that your geraniums grow healthy and bloom beautifully.
Happy gardening, and don’t forget to choose the right fertilizer to give your geraniums the care they need to thrive! 🌸
