How To Fertilize Geraniums: Nutrient Boosting

When it comes to geranium care, proper fertilization plays a crucial role in promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Whether you have annual or perennial geraniums, providing the right nutrients is essential for their overall well-being. In this article, I will guide you through the process of fertilizing geraniums, highlighting the importance of organic fertilizers and soil enrichment.

Geraniums, both annual and perennial varieties, can greatly benefit from regular fertilizing during the growing season. Annual geraniums, also known as pelargoniums, are fast-growing plants that can bloom from May to October if provided with a nutrient-rich fertilizer.

Hardy geraniums, on the other hand, are known for their resilience and typically require minimal fertilization. However, in cases where the soil is poor, a balanced fertilizer or organic compost can be applied to the root zone to ensure adequate nutrient supply.

When fertilizing geraniums, it’s crucial to consider the pH of the soil and select the right type of fertilizers. Organic fertilizers are a great choice, as they not only provide essential nutrients but also improve soil health and fertility.

Key Takeaways:

• Regular fertilization is essential for geraniums’ growth and bloom.
• Annual geraniums benefit from potassium-rich fertilizers.
• Hardy geraniums rarely require fertilization unless the soil is poor.
• Consider the pH of the soil when choosing fertilizers.
• Organic fertilizers can enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients.

How to Fertilize Geraniums

When it comes to keeping your geraniums healthy and promoting vibrant blooms, proper fertilization is key. In this section, I will share some valuable tips on how to fertilize geraniums effectively.

1. Test the Soil

Before fertilizing your geraniums, it is essential to test the soil for nutrient content and pH level. Geraniums thrive in soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. If your soil is acidic, you can adjust the pH by adding lime, crushed oyster shells, or wood ash.

2. Choose the Right Fertilizer

For optimal growth and flowering, geraniums can benefit from slow-release fertilizers or liquid potassium fertilizers. Slow-release fertilizers gradually release nutrients over time, providing a continuous supply to your plants. Liquid potassium fertilizers are particularly beneficial for promoting healthy blooms in geraniums.

3. Follow a Fertilizing Schedule

The fertilizing schedule for geraniums can vary depending on the type of geranium and its growth stage. Annual geraniums can be fertilized regularly during the summer months, approximately every four to six weeks. Perennial geraniums, on the other hand, may only need one application in the spring to support their early growth.

4. Avoid Over-Fertilizing

When using liquid-soluble fertilizers, it is crucial to provide adequate water to prevent fertilizer salt buildup. Over-fertilizing with high nitrogen content can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering. Follow the instructions provided by the fertilizer manufacturer to ensure the correct dosage for your geraniums.

5. Topdress with Compost

Enhance the nutrient content and water retention of the soil by topdressing the root zone with high-quality compost. This will slowly release nutrients to the geraniums and improve the overall health of the plants.

By following these tips and providing proper fertilization, your geraniums will thrive, producing an abundance of healthy blooms for you to enjoy.

Best Fertilizer for Geraniums

When it comes to fertilizing your geraniums, there are several options to choose from. Two popular choices are slow-release fertilizers and liquid fertilizers. Slow-release fertilizers, such as Osmocote Smart-Release Plant fertilizer (9-6-12 NPK) and Miracle-Gro Shake N Feed (10-18-9 NPK), provide a steady release of nutrients over time. This reduces the need for frequent applications and ensures your geraniums receive a consistent supply of essential nutrients.

If you prefer a liquid fertilizer, consider ALGOplus Geranium and Patio Plants Liquid Fertilizer (4-6-8 NPK). This specially formulated liquid fertilizer is designed to promote flower production in annual geraniums. For a more versatile option, you can try Miracle-Gro All Purpose Concentrated Liquid Plant Food (12-4-8 NPK). This liquid fertilizer provides a balanced mix of nutrients and can be used for various plants, including geraniums.

Another choice is Southern Ag PowerPak Water Soluble Fertilizer (20-20-20 NPK). This water-soluble fertilizer is convenient and easy to use. Its balanced nutrient composition can help nourish your geraniums and support their overall health and vitality.

Remember, regardless of the fertilizer you choose, always follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturers. Applying the right amount of fertilizer at the right time will ensure optimal growth and blooms for your geraniums.

Source Links

• https://ag.umass.edu/greenhouse-floriculture/fact-sheets/growing-geraniums
• https://my-geranium.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fertilising-geraniums/
• https://plantaddicts.com/fertilizing-geraniums/