Geranium is an extremely beautiful plant. This plant is extremely appealing and charming. It is usually grown outdoors to decorate gardens and yard. However, it is possible to grow geranium as a houseplant. Growing Geranium indoors is not as easy as growing it outdoors. Therefore, in this post, we will provide with the most effective tips to successfully grow this adorable plant indoors.
1. Choose a variety
There are many varieties of Geranium, you can learn more about them at Mother Earth Living. Each variety is distinguished by a specific color and specific scent. Therefore, when you head to the local nursery, make sure to choose a variety that has the color and the scent you like the most.
You should also keep in mind that many geranium varieties don’t bloom, thus, pick up carefully the variety you want to grow inside your house.
2. Location
You should place the post you are using to grow Geranium in a very sunny position. Geranium requires access to direct sunlight. It needs to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Sunlight is vital for Geranium not only to grow but also to bloom.
- It is recommended that you place your geranium on a South or West facing window.
- If you don’t have a sunny window, you should use grow lights such as fluorescent
3. Soil
A good quality soil is essential for growing geranium indoors. The soil should be well-drained and rich in nutrients. Therefore, it recommended that you avoid using your garden soil but rather you should use a good quality potting mix. You can buy a good potting mix from your local nursery store. Make sure you ask for a well-drained loamy potting mix.
4. Watering
Proper watering is one of the most important parts for growing geranium indoors. Proper watering determines whether or not your plant will survive.
Geranium is a tropical plant this it naturally a drought tolerant plant. It does not require much watering. Therefore, you should water your plant only when the top 1 inch of soil is dry.
5. Temperature
As a tropical plant, Geranium loves warmth. The optimum temperature for growing geranium is 65 F at daytime and 55 F at nighttime. Higher degrees are welcomed but lower degrees may hinder the growth of your plant and prevent it from blooming.
6. Fertilizer
Geranium requires fertilization only when it is still on its growing season. You should apply a slow release fertilizer once a month regularly. Once the growing season is over, you should stop fertilizing your plant.
7. Pruning
Occasional pruning is recommended to have a bushy beautiful plant. It also allows you to modify the shape of your plant.
8. Overwintering
In winter, you should reduce watering to the minimum. You should also place your plant in the warmest room in your house.
7. Pests and Diseases
The most dangerous diseases that may infect your plant are root rot and fungal disease. Both are caused by overwatering. However, when it comes to pests, you should be careful of:
- mites
- mealybugs
- aphids
This is the best guide for growing geranium indoors. Follow this guide and you will have an extremely decorative geranium houseplant. Growing geranium indoors is beneficial. This gorgeous plant will not only adorn your house but it will also make it smell terrific.