If your geraniums are potted, it’s recommended to fertilize them in spring and summer. Once they reach full size (geraniums are relatively small plants), transplanting them will no longer be necessary, and for this very reason, they require fertilization, which can include:
- Organic fertilizer : you can choose any of the following: compost, humus, guano, manure, eggshells, or banana shells. A handful is enough for each plant;
- Chemical fertilizers : to make your geraniums bloom, you can opt for fertilizers specifically produced for this type of plant.
Water only when really necessary
It may seem like generic advice, but providing the right amount of water to your geranium plant is essential for its flowering. Controlling watering frequency isn’t easy: there are many factors to consider, such as your local climate, the type of soil, or the size of the pot.
Geraniums don’t like completely dry soil, but excessively moist soil can cause permanent damage. The top layer of soil dries out quickly, while the soil closest to the roots stays moist for a longer period of time.
For this reason, it is important to check the humidity of the soil, and this can be done by inserting a wooden stake into it.
Prevent the arrival of the geranium butterfly
The geeranium butterfly is an insect that causes a great deal of damage to our favorite plants. During its larval stage, it bores into stems and eats away at the inside, stunting the plant’s growth and flowering.
There are specific products to prevent and combat geranium moths. Ask your local nursery.
Prune the geraniums
An excellent trick for keeping geraniums healthy is to prune them in late winter, encouraging the growth of new stems and, consequently, more flowers. These prunings don’t have to be drastic: just reduce the stems by a few centimeters. Remember to use a clean, sharp knife or scissors.