10 Plants That THRIVE in Full Summer Sun

8. Geranium (Pelargonium): Patio Pot Perfection

Okay, let’s chat about a plant that screams summer patios and cheerful window boxes – the classic Geranium! Now, quick heads-up, the plants most of us call Geraniums, the ones amazing in pots with those big balls of color? Their fancy botanical name is actually Pelargonium.¹ There are true Geraniums (often called Cranesbills), which are usually hardy perennials for garden beds, but today, we’re talking about Pelargoniums – the patio pot perfection kind!

You just can’t beat that iconic look, can you? Think of overflowing window boxes in Europe or big, welcoming pots flanking a sunny front door – chances are, they’re filled with these beauties. They bring such bold color impact and are surprisingly straightforward to grow if you know a few key things. They really are a staple for adding instant home decor flair outdoors.

Sun Lovers Made for Containers

First things first, these Geraniums (Pelargoniums!) are classic sun-worshippers.² They really need plenty of direct sun to bloom their hearts out, especially the common zonal geraniums (the upright ones, often with that darker circle or “zone” pattern on the leaf).³ They tolerate heat well, but – and this is important – only if they get enough water. When the temperature climbs, their watering needs go way up, especially in containers.

They truly shine in pots and containers. Why? Because pots allow you to give them the excellent drainage they crave and make it easier to control their feeding, which helps them perform their best. They are fantastic patio plants for full sun.

Iconic Looks & Scents

What makes them so recognizable? Those big, rounded clusters of flowers are a dead giveaway! They come in such vibrant shades – classic fire-engine reds, every shade of pink imaginable, pure whites, lovely corals and salmons, and even rich purples. They deliver instant cheerfulness wherever you plant them.

Besides the flowers, many zonal geraniums have interesting patterned leaves that add extra appeal.⁴ You’ll find upright, bushy types that are great ‘fillers’ or standalones in pots. And then there are the wonderful ivy-leaf geraniums, which have a trailing habit and look absolutely stunning spilling out of hanging basket plants or window box flowers.⁵

And let’s not forget that distinct scent! Brush against the leaves, especially on a warm day, and you get that unique, slightly pungent, earthy aroma. Love it or hate it, it’s definitely part of the Geranium experience!

Keys to Geranium Glory (What I’ve Learned)

Want your Geraniums to look like the ones in magazines? Here are the secrets I’ve picked up over the years. First, good drainage is non-negotiable. Soggy soil is the absolute enemy! Always use pots with drainage holes and a good quality potting mix.

Second, watering is key. Water regularly, but always let the soil dry slightly between waterings.⁶ Stick your finger an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, water thoroughly until it runs out the bottom. If it still feels damp, wait another day. Constantly wet feet often lead to yellow leaves or rot. Learned that one the hard way!

Third, because they’re usually grown in pots where nutrients wash out, you need to feed regularly. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the main growing season. Potted plants get hungry and need their vitamins to keep blooming!

Finally, and this is probably the most important tip for continuous flowers: deadhead consistently. Don’t just pick off the individual dead petals. Snap off the entire spent flower stalk right down at the base where it meets the main stem. This tells the plant to produce more flower stalks instead of trying to make seeds. It makes a HUGE difference! Though they need attention, they are relatively easy care container plants if you stick to these rules.

So, while they need a little bit of consistent care with watering, feeding, and deadheading, Geraniums totally reward you with that stunning, classic look and non-stop bold color. They are worth the effort for that perfect patio display!

Ready for something completely different? Our next plant is a super tough succulent that adds amazing texture and surprises with late-season flowers. Click the “next” button below and let’s explore the wonderful world of Sedum, also known as Stonecrop!