How to Keep Geraniums Blooming and Leafy with Proper Watering

Introduction:
Geraniums are beloved for their vibrant, long-lasting blooms and lush foliage. However, many gardeners struggle to maintain a geranium plant that is both full of flowers and consistently leafy. The secret often lies in the way you water these beauties. Overwatering or underwatering can cause fewer flowers and droopy leaves. In this article, we’ll reveal how to water geraniums correctly to keep them thriving with abundant blooms and healthy foliage all season long.

Ingredients:
While this isn’t a cooking recipe, caring for geraniums requires some essentials:

• Healthy geranium plant (Pelargonium species)

• Well-draining pot or garden bed soil

• Water (preferably room temperature or rainwater)

• Mulch (optional)

• Balanced fertilizer (optional but recommended for flowering)

Preparation (Watering Method):

1. Check the Soil Moisture: Before watering, always check the soil moisture by inserting your finger about an inch deep. If it feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water. Avoid watering when the soil still feels moist to prevent root rot.

2. Water at the Base: Apply water directly to the soil around the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves to minimize fungal diseases.

3. Deep but Infrequent Watering: Water thoroughly until it seeps out of the drainage holes (if potted), ensuring the entire root system gets hydrated. Let the soil dry out somewhat between waterings — geraniums prefer to dry slightly between watering sessions.

4. Morning Watering: Water early in the day to allow any moisture on leaves to dry out quickly, reducing disease risk.

5. Adjust for Season and Environment: In hot summer months, watering might be needed more frequently, but in cooler or rainy periods, reduce watering to prevent soggy soil.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• For Potted Geraniums: Place pots where they get at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Remove spent flowers (deadheading) regularly to encourage more blooms.

• For Garden Geraniums: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep mulch a few inches away from the stem.

• Storage: Geraniums do well when overwintered indoors in a cool, bright spot. Reduce watering during winter dormancy.

Variations: