Does my geranium need fertilizer to bloom?

Yes, but use a balanced, water soluble fertilizer once every 2 weeks during the spring and summer. Avoid high nitrogen formulas which encourage leaves instead of flowers.

Should I deadhead the old flowers?

Absolutely. Removing faded blooms helps the plant focus its energy on producing new flowers rather than seeds.

Why is my Regal Geranium not flowering? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the plant spent the winter in a room warmer than 60 degrees.
Assess the light levels in your current location.
Ensure you are not using a fertilizer too high in nitrogen.

Likely causes

Lack of cool nights
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks healthy and green but shows no signs of buds. This happens if the plant stays in a warm room all winter.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot where temperatures stay between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 to 6 weeks in late winter. Keep the soil slightly drier during this time to encourage bud set.
Insufficient light
Possible
How to tell: The stems look stretched out and the leaves are pale. The plant is reaching for more light.
What to do: Place your geranium in a window that gets bright, indirect light or some gentle morning sun. If your home is dim, consider using a grow light for 10 to 12 hours a day.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your regal geranium

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for these plants to take a break after a heavy flush of blooms. Worry if the plant has been in a cool spot for weeks and still shows no buds.

Stopping it coming back

Give your plant a distinct cool period each winter to trigger the blooming cycle.

Regal Geranium: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your regal geranium and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Does my geranium need fertilizer to bloom?: Yes, but use a balanced, water soluble fertilizer once every 2 weeks during the spring and summer. Avoid high nitrogen formulas which encourage leaves instead of flowers.
Should I deadhead the old flowers?: Absolutely. Removing faded blooms helps the plant focus its energy on producing new flowers rather than seeds.

Why is my Regal Geranium not flowering?