Regal/Martha Washington Geraniums

Regal geraniums are often called Martha Washington’s, the name of a once famous cultivar. The plants aren’t at all difficult to keep alive, but it can be challenging to get them to re-bloom well. The key is to follow a special seasonal rhythm of care. In early summer after flowering stops, cut plants back to about 4”, repot them and allow them to rest inside for a month. Give them enough water to keep them alive, but wait until midsummer to begin feeding them. When nights cool to below 55°F in fall, place plants outdoors for at least 6 weeks. Plants use this cool period to develop buds, which may not show until midwinter. Look for large flower clusters in February or March.

In winter and early spring, bright light from a south or west window. In fall, filtered sun outdoors.

Keep soil lightly moist at all times, allowing soil to dry to with ½” of the surface between waterings.

From late summer through winter and spring, feed plants every 2 weeks with a high phosphorous plant food. Don’t feed in early summer when plants rest.

• In winter and early spring, average room temperatures (60-75°F). In summer, plants rest. In fall, provide 6 to 8 weeks of cool temperatures (45-60°F).

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