Thomas Jefferson first introduced geraniums to American horticulturist John Bartram in 1786.  Since that introduction, geraniums have become a staple in American landscapes. There are many types of geraniums to choose from. Here at Musselman Greenhouses, we grow three types of geraniums including Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum), Interspecific Geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum-interspecific), and Martha Washington Geraniums (Pelargonium x domesticum). What type of geranium you should select  depends on how you plan to use the plant.

Zonal geraniums have an upright growth habit and thrive in sunny landscape beds, patio pots, and mixed containers.  Colors available range from traditional red, pink, and white to novelty colors including ‘Fantasia Purple Sizzle’ and ‘Americana White Splash’.   They are propagated by cuttings so the “child” plants are genetically the same as their parent plants. These geraniums grow larger and produce more flowers than seed geraniums.   Seed geraniums are less expensive to buy, they are smaller, produce fewer flowers, and are more prone to disease and flower shattering.  The desirable characteristics of zonal geraniums make them one of the most popular bedding plant choices each Spring.

Interspecific geraniums bring together the best features of ivy and zonal geraniums.  They have a mounding and vining growth habit with the durability of zonal geraniums.  These  geraniums look and perform well in hanging baskets and patio pots.   Currently, we grow both ‘Calliope’ and ‘Caliente’ interspecific geraniums in hanging baskets and pots.

Martha Washington Geraniums are a popular Spring potted plant.  They need long days to to initiate their flower blooms.  Once the flower blooms are initiated, growers are rewarded with elegant, large blooms in brilliant colors.  While Martha Washington Geraniums are perhaps the showiest flowers in the Spring, they tend to flower less as temperatures warm up.

No matter which type of geranium you plant, you will be rewarded with a classic slice of Americana in your garden throughout the summer.