As an experienced gardener and landscaping enthusiast, I highly recommend ordering geranium plug plants early in the year to ensure you receive healthy young plants in plenty of time for the planting season. By doing so, you can take advantage of the optimal growing conditions and have beautiful blooms from June to October.
Timing is crucial when it comes to buying geranium plugs. It’s best to place your order in late winter or early spring, typically between January and March. This allows ample time for the plugs to be grown and delivered to you in time for planting.
By ordering early, you can also secure your desired varieties as popular geranium cultivars tend to sell out quickly. This way, you won’t miss out on the specific colors or types of geraniums you have in mind for your garden or containers.
Ordering geranium plugs early also gives you the advantage of being able to acclimate the young plants before planting them outdoors. Upon arrival, it’s essential to carefully unpack the plugs and allow them to adjust to their new environment gradually. This process, known as hardening off, involves gradually exposing the plants to outdoor conditions over a period of time. It helps prevent shock and ensures the plants are ready to thrive once planted in your garden.
When choosing geranium plugs, consider the specific growing conditions of your garden. Geraniums prefer full sun and well-draining soil, so make sure your planting area meets these requirements. If you plan to grow geraniums in containers, select suitable potting soil and containers with drainage holes.
It’s worth noting that geranium plugs can be planted directly into the ground or potted up into larger containers. If you choose to pot them up, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and provide adequate space for the plants to grow.
Once your geranium plugs have acclimated and the risk of frost has passed, typically around late spring or early summer, you can transplant them into their final positions. Plant them at the same depth as they were in the plugs, and space them according to the specific variety’s recommended spacing.
To encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms, provide regular watering, and apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. Deadheading spent blooms will also prolong the flowering period and maintain a neat appearance.
Ordering geranium plug plants early in the year ensures you receive healthy young plants in time for the planting season. By considering the specific growing conditions of your garden, acclimating the plugs, and providing proper care, you can enjoy beautiful geranium blooms from June to October. So, don’t delay, place your order early and get ready to add vibrant color to your beds, borders, pots, and baskets.
