How to Grow Regal Geraniums

Regal geraniums (Pelargonium x domesticum), also called Martha Washington geraniums, grow up to 3 feet tall and produce richly colored blooms in a variety of shades, including purple, red and pink. They are grown as perennials in U.S. Department of Agriculture Zones 10 and 11, but are grown as annuals in more northern zones. Regal geraniums grow well in full sun, but should be provided with light afternoon shade in areas with extreme summer heat. They make excellent landscape plantings, but can also be grown in a planter or indoors.

Things You'll Need

Spade
Mulch

Water-soluble fertilizer
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Make a planting hole wide enough to easily hold the regal geranium's roots. It should be just deep enough to plant the flower at the depth it grew at when purchased.
- 2
  Replace half of the garden soil with organic compost if large amounts of clay are present. This improves drainage and reduces the chances of root or stem rot.
- 3
  Place the roots into the prepared planting hole and cover them well. Water until the soil feels evenly moist.
- 4
  Spread 3 inches of mulch over the soil beneath the plants.
- 5
  Pinch the tops of regal geraniums back right after planting to stimulate fuller growth.
- 6
  Water when the top 1/2 inch of soil dries out.
- 7
  Feed the plants each month, from spring until the end of summer, with water-soluble fertilizer. Read package instructions to determine the correct rate of application. Wait until new plantings have been in the ground for two weeks before feeding.
- 8
  Clip off spent blooms and dead or damaged leaves as you notice them.

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