Does Geranium Come Back Every Year? Plant Care Tips

Does Geranium Come Back Every Year?

No, geraniums do not come back every year.

Although there are hardy perennial geraniums that return annually, the common geranium, or pelargonium, is an annual plant that does not survive the winter.

True geraniums are versatile and long-lived, coming in a variety of flower colors and thriving in different growing conditions.

They can be used as groundcovers, in rock gardens and containers, and are resistant to rabbits and deer.

However, they need well-draining soil and regular watering to thrive.

Overall, geraniums are not a perennial plant that comes back every year.

Key Points:

  • Geraniums do not come back every year.
  • Perennial geraniums are an exception, but common geraniums are annual plants that do not survive winter.
  • True geraniums are versatile and come in different flower colors.
  • They can be used as groundcovers, in rock gardens, and in containers.
  • Geraniums are resistant to rabbits and deer.
  • They need well-draining soil and regular watering to thrive.

Did You Know?

1. Geraniums are not really true geraniums: While commonly referred to as geraniums, the plants most people have in their gardens are actually Pelargoniums. True geraniums belong to a separate genus and are more commonly known as cranesbills.
2. Geraniums have a wide range of uses: Aside from being ornamental plants, geraniums have been used in various ways throughout history. They have been utilized in herbal remedies, as natural insect repellents, and their essential oils are often found in cosmetics and perfumes.
3. Geraniums have diverse flower colors: While commonly associated with shades of pink and red, geraniums actually come in an array of colors, including white, orange, purple, and even blue. Some varieties even feature blooms with multiple colors.
4. Geraniums are symbols of friendship: In floriography, the language of flowers, geraniums are often associated with friendship. So next time you want to show appreciation to a friend, consider gifting them a geranium.
5. Geraniums can attract beneficial insects to your garden: Geraniums not only add beauty to your outdoor space, but they can also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Additionally, they repel certain harmful insects, making them a great addition to any eco-friendly garden.

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Geraniums: Annual Vs. Perennial

Geraniums, also known as pelargoniums, are a diverse group of plants that bring beauty and charm to any garden. It is important to understand the distinction between true geraniums and pelargoniums, as they have different growth habits.

  • Pelargoniums, commonly referred to as geraniums, are annual plants that do not come back each year. They complete their life cycle within a single growing season, blooming profusely and then dying off with the onset of cold weather.

  • On the other hand, true geraniums are hardy perennials that come back to the garden each year. These plants boast attractive leaves and a wide variety of flower colors, making them a favorite among gardeners.

Unlike pelargoniums, true geraniums are versatile, undemanding, and long-lived. They can thrive in a range of conditions, including both shady and sunny areas. This flexibility makes them suitable for various garden settings, from groundcovers to rock gardens and containers.

  • True geraniums are hardy perennials.
  • Pelargoniums complete their life cycle within a single growing season.
  • True geraniums are versatile and can thrive in both shady and sunny areas.

Characteristics And Care Of Geranium Plants

Geraniums, whether annual or perennial, share common characteristics and care requirements. These plants prefer morning sun and tolerate a wide range of soils, although they thrive best in free-draining soil enriched with compost. It is important to ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, as geraniums do not like growing in low areas during winter.

Regular watering is crucial, particularly during drought periods. While geraniums are relatively drought-tolerant, dry conditions may lead to reduced flowering. Therefore, it is essential to monitor soil moisture and provide supplemental watering as needed. Additionally, cutting back the flowering stems in spring helps maintain the plants’ appearance and promotes new growth.

Geraniums: Versatile And Undemanding Garden Plants

Geraniums are highly versatile and easy to cultivate, making them an ideal choice for any type of garden. Whether you have a sun-soaked area or a shady corner, geraniums can thrive and flourish. They are also known for their resilience against common garden pests like rabbits and deer.

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One standout variety, Geranium Rozanne, has gained immense popularity with over 6 million plants sold as of 2016. This particular cultivar has a height range of 6 to 24 inches and thrives in either afternoon shade or full sun. The renowned Chicago Botanic Garden is home to approximately 80 different geranium species, showcasing the vast diversity within this plant family. Jacob Burns, the curator of herbaceous perennial plants, has personally selected and cultivated a collection of 180 unique geraniums for the garden, further highlighting the remarkable range of this plant species.

Geraniums: A Variety Of Colors And Flowering Periods

Geraniums offer a delightful array of colors, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues. Pink, blue, purple, violet, and white are among the many shades available. Some geraniums even exhibit striking and unique colors, such as brilliant blues, purples, and lavenders.

In terms of flowering, geraniums are known for their lengthy blooming period. Some varieties can produce flowers for up to five weeks or more, enhancing the beauty of your garden throughout the season. The flowers of geraniums feature five equal-sized petals, often adorned with light, dark, or contrasting veins, adding to their visual appeal.

Using Geraniums In Different Garden Settings

Geraniums are incredibly versatile plants that can be utilized in various garden settings. Whether you are looking to create foundation plantings, fill in under trees, or complement shrubs and other perennials, geraniums are a natural choice.

Their low-growing and spreading habit makes them ideal for groundcover, providing a carpet of vibrant blooms. Planted alongside taller plants, geraniums can add a pop of color and create visual interest. Additionally, they can be successfully grown in containers, allowing for versatility and mobility within the garden.

geraniums, both annual and perennial, are a valuable addition to any garden. While pelargoniums are annual plants that do not come back each year, true geraniums are hardy perennials that keep returning, bringing beauty and charm season after season. Their versatility, undemanding nature, and long flowering periods make them an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. So go ahead, incorporate geraniums into your garden and enjoy the beauty they bring to your outdoor space.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get geraniums back every year?

To ensure the perennial return of geraniums every year, gardeners can opt to overwinter them indoors. By transferring potted geraniums inside prior to the arrival of frost and giving them a trim, their survival is guaranteed. These geraniums can then be nurtured as indoor plants until spring arrives, resulting in their annual rejuvenation.

How do I know if my geranium is annual or perennial?

Differentiating between an annual and perennial geranium can be determined by understanding their natural growth patterns and the specific zones they thrive in. Typically, geraniums are commonly grown as annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle within a single year. However, in Zones 10-11, geraniums exhibit perennial behavior, allowing them to survive and thrive year-round. If you reside in these regions, you can leave your geraniums outdoors all year or bring them indoors during winter and replant them outdoors when spring arrives. Furthermore, if your geraniums receive adequate light, they have the potential to bloom indoors continuously, contributing to a vibrant, year-long indoor garden.

How many years will geraniums last?

Geraniums have a remarkable lifespan, thriving for an impressive span of time. With proper care, these flowering plants can persist for over two decades. Optimal conditions for geraniums include full sun for at least six hours a day, although a touch of shade is ideal during scorching temperatures. Watering should be done when the soil has slightly dried out, ensuring thorough hydration for these enduring plants.

Do geraniums come back next year?

Geraniums are known for their resilience and ability to come back year after year. These hardy plants can grow in a variety of conditions, thriving in both sun and partial shade. They can adapt to different types of soil, except for wet or boggy areas. As part of the “green wheelbarrow” family, geraniums are among the easiest plants to cultivate, requiring minimal care and no feeding. With their undemanding nature, you can expect these vibrant flowers to make a reappearance and bloom annually.

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