How Much Water Do Geraniums Need?

Geraniums may be grown inside and outside, but their watering schedule will be different.

Geraniums, which may be maintained as house plants or planted in the ground, like to be kept evenly moist. The frequency of watering, as well as the method, will depend on whether they are kept as indoor or outdoor plants.

In a Pot

Soil in a pot smaller than 10 inches will dry too quickly.

Grow geraniums in pots large enough to ensure that soil moisture does not fluctuate widely. Water the plants until the soil is thoroughly moist. Recheck twice a day until you gauge how quickly the soil dries in a particular location. When pots are placed outdoors, moisture will evaporate from the soil faster.

In the Ground

A garden center may recommend the proper soil amendments for your soil.

Sandy soil dries much faster than soil with more organic matter. Amend your soil so that you can keep it evenly moist by watering one or two times a week.

Watering Methods

Geraniums don't like having their foliage wet. It spreads fungus and bacterial disease. Avoid overhead watering with a hose or sprinkler. A soaker hose, which drips water at the roots, may be used.

References

• North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension: Geranium Culture for Home Gardeners
• University of Minnesota Extension: Outdoor-Indoor Geranium Culture
• UMass Extension: Growing Quality Geraniums

Resources

• The Geranium Gallery