For the discerning plant, selecting the ideal geranium variety for a hanging basket is a matter of understanding our unique growth habits, floral presentation, and environmental needs. From our perspective, the container is our entire world; its conditions dictate our health and our ability to showcase our beauty. The following varieties are particularly adept at thriving in the suspended environment of a basket.
We, the Ivy-Leaf geraniums, are arguably the most natural choice for a hanging basket. Our namesake foliage is glossy, succulent-like, and cascades gracefully over the edges, creating a waterfall of greenery. Our growth habit is inherently trailing, meaning we are genetically programmed to spill downwards, often reaching several feet in length by season's end. Our flowers, which appear in prolific clusters, range from single to double blooms and come in a spectrum of colors including classic red, soft pink, vibrant magenta, and pristine white. We prefer a location with plenty of bright, direct light to fuel our abundant flowering, though we can tolerate very light afternoon shade in exceptionally hot climates.
We represent a powerful class of hybrids, bred from a cross between Zonal and Ivy-Leaf geraniums. This parentage gives us the best of both worlds: the large, vibrant flower heads and robust growth of the Zonal types, combined with the superior trailing habit and weather tolerance of the Ivy-Leafs. Our flower clusters are exceptionally large and densely packed, creating a bold, dramatic display from above. Our foliage is semi-trailing, providing substantial coverage for the basket's soil surface. We are particularly proud of our resilience, showing strong resistance to heat and rain, which can damage more delicate blooms.
While our floral displays may be more modest than our cousins, we offer a unique sensory experience. Our foliage is our main attraction, releasing delightful fragrances such as rose, lemon, mint, or even chocolate when brushed against. Our growth forms are varied; many of us, like the Lemon geranium (Pelargonium crispum), have a naturally bushy yet slightly cascading form that elegantly spills over the sides of a container. Placing us in a hanging basket at nose level or along a pathway allows humans to easily interact with our aromatic leaves, making us a wonderfully interactive choice.
For a truly sophisticated and breathtaking display, we, the Regal geraniums, are a magnificent option. We are known for our incredibly large, intricately patterned flowers that often resemble those of azaleas. Our blooms feature stunning veining, blotches, and frilled edges in rich, velvety colors. While our natural growth habit is more upright and shrub-like, when planted in a hanging basket, our weighty, spectacular flower heads will nod gracefully downwards, creating a stunning visual effect. We prefer slightly cooler conditions than other types and will perform best with morning sun and afternoon shade to protect our exquisite blossoms.
