Loosen the top layer of soil
Add fresh potting mix or compost
Ensure proper drainage
Healthy roots lead to better flowers. 3. Start a consistent fertilizer routine
Geraniums are moderate feeders, but during the growing season they benefit from regular nutrients.
Use:
A balanced liquid fertilizer every 1-2 weeks.
Look for something that supports flowering – not just leaf growth.
Too much nitrogen can lead to lush leaves but fewer flowers, so balance is key.
4. Water correctly (not constantly)
One of the most common mistakes is overwatering.
Pelargoniums prefer:
Soil that dries slightly between waterings
In May, when the temperature rises:
Check the top inch of soil before watering.
Water deeply, but not too often.
Overwatering can lead to root problems and reduced flowering.
5. Regularly remove wilted flowers
This is one of the simplest but most effective habits.
Deadheading means removing wilted or dying flowers.
Why it's important:
It encourages the plant to produce new flowers.
It prevents energy from going into seed production.
Instead of just removing petals, cut back to the stem where the flower cluster begins.
6. Pinch back the leggy growth
If your geraniums are looking tall, stretched out, or uneven, May is the perfect time to shape them.
Pinching back involves:
Pruning the stem tips
This promotes:
Very bushy growth
More branching
More flower-producing stems
It may feel counterintuitive to prune a growing plant, but it leads to a fuller result.
7. Watch for pests early
As the weather gets warmer, insects become more active.
Common pests include:
Aphids
Whiteflies
Spider mites
Control:
Under leaves
Around new growth
If you detect problems early, they are much easier to deal with.
8. Improve air circulation
Pelargoniums don't like to be crowded.
Good airflow helps to:
Prevent fungal problems
Keep leaves dry
Reduce pest activity
Make sure:
The pots are not packed too tightly together.
The plants have room to breathe.
This is especially important in humid conditions.
