Welcome to the world of gardening in New Zealand, where the unique climate and diverse landscapes offer a multitude of opportunities for green thumbs. If you’re looking to add a splash of color and vibrancy to your garden, geraniums are an excellent choice. These versatile and hardy plants are well-suited to New Zealand’s temperate climate, and with a little care and attention, they can thrive in gardens across the country. In this article, we will explore the best time to plant geraniums in New Zealand, taking into account the regional variations and specific conditions that can influence their growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, get ready to discover the secrets to successfully growing geraniums in the Land of the Long White Cloud.
Best varieties of Geraniums to grow in New Zealand
In New Zealand, there are several varieties of Geraniums that grow well in our climate. Here are a few popular ones:
- Geranium ‘Rozanne’: This variety is known for its long blooming season, producing beautiful violet-blue flowers from spring to fall. It is a hardy and vigorous plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions.
- Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue’: This variety has stunning sky-blue flowers and is a favorite among gardeners. It blooms profusely in spring and early summer and can tolerate partial shade.
- Geranium ‘Ann Folkard’: This variety has vibrant magenta flowers with dark veins and a trailing habit, making it perfect for hanging baskets or cascading over walls. It blooms from spring to fall and prefers full sun.
- Geranium ‘Orion’: This variety features large, deep blue flowers with dark veins. It is a compact and bushy plant that blooms from spring to summer. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Geranium ‘Patricia’: This variety has striking magenta flowers and dark green foliage. It is a compact plant that blooms from spring to summer and prefers full sun.
These varieties of Geraniums are well-suited to the New Zealand climate, but it’s important to note that they still require proper care and maintenance, including regular watering, well-draining soil, and occasional fertilization.
When to plant Geraniums in New Zealand
The best time to plant Geraniums in New Zealand is during the spring season, which typically falls between September and November. This is when the weather starts to warm up, and the risk of frost has passed in most regions. Planting Geraniums during this time allows them to establish their roots and grow vigorously during the summer months.
It is important to note that the exact planting time may vary depending on the specific region and local weather conditions, so it is always a good idea to check with local gardening resources or nurseries for more specific advice.
How to grow Geraniums in New Zealand
Growing geraniums in New Zealand can be a rewarding experience. Here are the steps and considerations to keep in mind:
- Choose the right variety: Geraniums come in many different varieties, including zonal geraniums, ivy geraniums, and scented geraniums. Consider the specific requirements and characteristics of each variety before making your selection.
- Select a suitable location: Geraniums prefer full sun to thrive, so choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil, so ensure the soil is loose and fertile.
- Prepare the soil: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris. If the soil is heavy or clayey, amend it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
- Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the geranium plant. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the crown of the plant (where the stem meets the roots) is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant.
- Watering: Geraniums prefer moderate watering. Water the plants deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a slow-release granular fertilizer, during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
- Pruning: Regularly pinch back the tips of the geranium stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
- Pests and diseases: Geraniums are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common issues such as aphids, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. Treat any infestations promptly using organic or chemical controls if necessary.
- Winter care: In colder regions of New Zealand, geraniums may need protection during winter. Consider bringing potted geraniums indoors or covering outdoor plants with frost cloth to protect them from freezing temperatures.
- Propagation: Geraniums can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy plants, remove the lower leaves, and place them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and warm until they develop roots.
Remember to tailor your care routine to the specific variety of geranium you are growing, as different types may have slightly different requirements. With proper care, geraniums can provide beautiful blooms and vibrant colors in your garden throughout the year.
When do Geraniums bloom in New Zealand?
Geraniums typically bloom in New Zealand during the spring and summer months, which is from September to February. However, the exact blooming period can vary depending on the specific variety of geranium and the local climate conditions. Some geraniums may start blooming as early as August or continue blooming into March if the weather conditions are favorable. It’s important to note that geraniums are sensitive to frost, so it’s best to wait until the risk of frost has passed before planting them outdoors.
Other considerations
When growing Geraniums in New Zealand, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:
- Climate: Geraniums thrive in temperate climates, so it’s important to choose the right variety that suits your specific region in New Zealand. Some varieties are more tolerant of cooler temperatures, while others prefer warmer conditions. Ensure that the geraniums are protected from frost during winter.
- Sunlight: Geraniums require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Choose a location in your garden that receives ample sunlight, preferably in the morning or afternoon.
- Soil: Geraniums prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider improving drainage by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
- Watering: Geraniums prefer moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilizer: Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer can promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Use a slow-release fertilizer or apply liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and vigor of geraniums. Pinch off spent flowers and leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pruning also helps prevent diseases by improving air circulation.
- Pests and Diseases: Geraniums can be susceptible to common garden pests like aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate measures if you notice any infestations. Also, be vigilant for diseases such as powdery mildew or botrytis, which can be controlled by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
- Propagation: Geraniums can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 7-10 cm long cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems and root them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location until they develop roots.
By considering these factors, you can successfully grow geraniums in New Zealand and enjoy their beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.
