Firstly, let us start with the basics. Geraniums are a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. They are native to southern Africa, but they have become popular all over the world due to their beauty and ease of cultivation. These plants come in many different varieties, including zonal geraniums, ivy geraniums, scented geraniums, citronella geraniums and more. Each variety has its own unique traits and characteristics, making them a diverse and fascinating species to explore.

One of the most striking features of geraniums is their flowers. These come in a range of colors, including pink, red, white, and purple, to name a few. Their petals are soft and velvety, and they often have distinctive markings or patterns that add to their beauty. This is especially true of our royal geraniums, which you can find at our year-round locations. 

But geraniums are not just pretty faces – they also have some practical uses. For example, scented geraniums are often used in aromatherapy due to their calming and uplifting properties. Some species of geraniums were sometimes used in ancient medicine to treat a range of ailments, including inflammation, coughs, and digestive issues. Additionally, geraniums are often used in cosmetics and perfumes, thanks to their pleasing scent and gentle properties.

When it comes to cultivation, geraniums are relatively easy to care for. They thrive in well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, although they can also tolerate partial shade. They are quite drought-tolerant and don't require much watering, making them a low-maintenance option for those with busy schedules. Geraniums can be grown in pots, hanging baskets, or in the ground.

One thing to keep in mind when growing geraniums is that they are susceptible to frost damage. This is not as much of a problem anymore now that we have officially moved into the spring season here in Hampton Roads, however, it is important to know when wanting to buy your geraniums earlier as well as when it's time to take them in or retire them for the season. Protect your geraniums from frost by covering them with a cloth or moving them indoors. Additionally, geraniums can be prone to disease if they are overwatered or exposed to too much moisture. To prevent this, avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers and only water the root base of the plant.

From their stunning flowers to their practical uses, they are a plant that deserves to be celebrated and admired. So, next time you see a geranium blooming in a garden or on a windowsill, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and all that it has to offer and maybe even take some home with you To learn more about what’s growing on at our garden center, check out Mike, the Garden Guru, and his webinars with new plants, products, and expert planting advice. To keep inspired and grow with us, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to dig into the joys of gardening!