When you visit the garden center, geraniums are a common and reliable choice in the annuals section. They are perfect for flowerbeds and containers. But have you ever been confused when you find geraniums among the perennials? There are both annual and perennial geraniums, and in this article, we will focus on the annual types, which are actually called pelargoniums.
Let’s delve into the different types of geraniums and explore their unique characteristics.
Exploring the Different Types of Geraniums
Both annual and perennial geraniums belong to the Geraniaceae family. The perennial geranium, also known as cranesbill, is from the genus Geranium. On the other hand, the annual geraniums that are popular for bedding and containers belong to the genus Pelargonium. Although there is a difference, it can be confusing as the incorrect labeling has persisted over the years.
Whatever you call them, pelargoniums are attractive annuals that not only add beauty to your garden but also attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies. The vibrant blooms come in a rainbow of hues, ranging from red, pink, and orange to white, fuchsia, and purple.
Zonal Geraniums
Zonal geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum) are known for their vibrant, upright flowers that stand out against the foliage. The name “zonal” refers to the ring or zone of color in each leaf. These pelargoniums can be planted in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil that dries out between watering.
Zonal geraniums perform well in containers, thanks to their upright growth habit. They make excellent choices for adding height to your garden bed. Ensure they are placed in a position where their colorful pompom-like blooms are not overshadowed by other plants.
If you plant zonal geraniums in your garden, consider cutting them back and potting them up in the fall to overwinter indoors in a cool, dry area of your house.
Ivy Leaf Geraniums
Ivy leaf geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) are excellent choices for spilling over pots, hanging baskets, or window boxes. These plants have a trailing growth habit and glossy leaves that resemble English ivy. They prefer moist soil and full to partial sunlight.
The flowers of ivy geraniums cascade over the sides of containers, forming clusters similar to pompoms. While they are self-cleaning and don’t require deadheading, it’s a good idea to use garden pruners to keep the plants looking fresh.
Regal Geraniums
Regal geraniums (Pelargonium x domesticum), also known as Martha Washington or fancy leaf geraniums, boast ruffled blooms with two different colors on their petals. They can tolerate cooler temperatures and thrive as houseplants during the winter months. You’ll typically find them at garden centers in the spring.
Once the warm weather arrives and the threat of frost has passed, you can bring your regal geranium outdoors. Gradually acclimatize the plant to outdoor temperatures and protect it from sudden frosts in late spring. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the season to encourage new ones.
Scented Geraniums
Scented pelargonium varieties offer a diverse range of fragrances, from rose and coconut to popular citronella. These plants are prized for their fragrant foliage, although their flowers tend to be smaller and more delicate. Some scented geraniums have fuzzy leaves, while others have smooth leaves similar to their ivy relatives. The fragrance of their foliage repels certain pests like bunnies and deer, while attracting pollinators.
Scented geraniums thrive in containers or well-draining soil in the garden. Plant them in a location where you can enjoy their delightful scents.
Interspecific Geraniums
Interspecific pelargoniums are exciting hybrids that combine the best traits of ivy and zonal geraniums. These plants are drought- and heat-tolerant with stunning double flowers. They prefer healthy, well-draining soil and can be grown in full sun to part shade areas of the garden or in container arrangements.
These beautiful geranium hybrids, such as Boldly Hot Pink, are drought and heat tolerant. They bloom throughout the entire season until the first frosts arrive.
Conclusion
Geraniums, or pelargoniums, offer a wide range of options for adding color and beauty to your garden. Whether you choose zonal, ivy leaf, regal, scented, or interspecific geraniums, these annuals are a fantastic choice for your flowerbeds, containers, hanging baskets, and window boxes. Enjoy their vibrant blooms, attractive foliage, and the pollinators they attract to your outdoor space.
To discover more annuals to grow in your garden, consider exploring zinnias, calendula, sweet peas, fuchsias, cosmos, pansies, and deer-resistant choices for sun and shade.
Source: Savvy Gardening