Geranium Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Geraniums are a popular flowering plant that come in a variety of colors and types. They can be grown from seeds, which can be harvested from mature plants. If you want to grow geraniums from seeds, it’s important to understand the process of storing, sowing and germinating geranium plant seeds.

Storing Geranium Plant Seeds

Geranium plant seeds can be stored for up to a year if kept in a cool, dry place. It’s important to store them in an airtight container, such as a plastic bag or jar with a tight-fitting lid. To keep the seeds dry, add a packet of silica gel to the container.

It’s also important to label the container with the type of geranium seeds and the date they were harvested. This will help you keep track of how long the seeds have been stored and ensure that you use them before they expire.

Sowing Geranium Plant Seeds

Geranium plant seeds should be sown indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Fill a seed tray with seed-starting mix and lightly press the seeds into the soil. Cover the tray with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to create a greenhouse effect and promote germination.

Keep the tray in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for germinating geranium seeds is between 70-75°F (21-24°C). Water the seeds regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Germinating Geranium Plant Seeds

Geranium plant seeds usually take 7-14 days to germinate. Once they have sprouted, remove the plastic wrap or humidity dome and move them to a sunny location. Water them regularly, but avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause fungal diseases.

When the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots. Harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in the garden.

FAQ

1. How do I know when geranium seeds are ripe?

Geranium seeds are ripe when the seed pods turn brown and dry out. The pods will split open when they are ready to be harvested.

2. Can I sow geranium seeds directly in the garden?

It’s possible to sow geranium seeds directly in the garden, but it’s not recommended. Geranium seeds are slow to germinate and can be easily washed away by rain or eaten by birds. It’s best to start them indoors and transplant them into the garden once they are established.

3. How often should I water geranium seedlings?

Geranium seedlings should be watered regularly, but avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause fungal diseases. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch.

4. What is the ideal temperature for germinating geranium seeds?

The ideal temperature for germinating geranium seeds is between 70-75°F (21-24°C). Keep them in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight.

5. How long does it take for geranium seeds to germinate?

Geranium seeds usually take 7-14 days to germinate.