Geraniums bring bright color to Alabama porches, pots, and flower beds. Most garden geraniums are Pelargonium plants. They like sun, good drainage, and steady care through the warm season.

These plants are usually grown as annuals in Alabama, though they can live longer if protected from freezing weather. Choose a healthy plant with firm stems and clean leaves.

Choose the Right Spot

Geraniums bloom best with plenty of light. Morning sun with some late-day shade can work well during the hottest part of summer. They also do well in full sun when water is steady.

If you are planning more seasonal color, see our guide to spring flowers for Alabama gardens.

Use Well-Drained Soil

Geranium roots do not like wet soil. In containers, use a light potting mix and make sure the pot has drain holes. In beds, loosen compacted soil before planting.

If you are not sure what the soil needs, an Alabama garden soil test can help you check pH and nutrients before you add fertilizer or lime.

Plant at the Same Depth

Set the plant so the top of the root ball stays level with the nearby soil. Fill around the roots, press the soil gently, and water well. Avoid piling soil or mulch against the main stem.

Water Without Keeping Soil Soggy

Water when the top part of the soil begins to dry. Containers may need water often during hot weather. Let extra water drain away instead of leaving the roots in standing water.

Water near the base when you can. Keeping leaves dry can help reduce disease trouble.

Feed Lightly

Geraniums in pots may need light feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer as the label directs. Too much fertilizer can make soft growth and fewer flowers.

For a simple guide to fertilizer labels, read our article on what N-P-K means.

Keep Plants Blooming

Remove old flower clusters after they fade. Trim yellow leaves and weak stems. This keeps the plant neat and helps air move through the foliage.

Protect From Cold

Geraniums do not handle a hard freeze well. If you want to keep a container plant, move it to a protected place before freezing weather arrives.

With sun, drainage, simple feeding, and careful watering, geraniums can give Alabama gardens steady color for much of the warm season.