Geraniums like rich, free-draining soil and are particularly suited to container growing. They prefer a sunny location but will take partial shade. Hanging baskets and window boxes get hot and dry quickly and might need watering twice a day. Pots will be easier. Don’t water until the soil surface feels dry, and avoid wetting the leaves.

As flowers and leaves decline, remove them to keep the plant looking good, to promote reblooming and to discourage the spread of disease. Peter J. Schenk Jr., a professional gardener in Alexandria, Va., says leaf and flower stalks should not be cut but removed entirely by reaching down to their baseand pulling them off.

Geraniums are heavy feeders and need fertilizing at least once every two weeks. Use a granular fertilizer formulated for annuals or, organically, a fish and seaweed fertilizer. Dilute according to label instructions.

The care of scented geraniums is essentially the same, though there will be fewer flowers to deadhead. Pinching back stems will encourage bushier growth and a contained habit, especially important in vigorous varieties such as Citronella and Mabel Grey. They will take a greater degree of shade, though they are basically sun lovers.

HomeStyle, Pages 38 on 06/22/2013