How Moist Do Geraniums Like to Be?

The common geranium does not like to stay wet.

Many varieties of flowering geraniums exist, and they are all perennial favorites with home gardeners, according to GeraniumCare.net. Their care is simple and they have a pleasing scent--but be careful not to let them get too wet.

General Care

Geraniums need full sun and well-drained soil or potting soil. Clay soil is acceptable if you combine it with organic materials to improve its drainage. Although geraniums are perennials, they do not tolerate frost and will die back in winter unless you move them indoors.

Deadheading and Pruning

Pinching off spent flower clusters during the summer blooming season will help your geranium to produce more flowers. Cut plants back by about one-half before your first frost and then dig them up, pot them and bring them indoors.

Water Needs

Geraniums like their soil to dry out between waterings. These plants, whether in the ground or in a pot, can develop a disease called Botrytis, according to Ohio State University. They die if you water them too much, or leave their soil wet for extended periods. If you keep a potted geranium on a plant saucer, empty it after you water it.

References

• Geranium Care: Proper Geranium Care
• Iowa State University: Geranium Care