Do I need to deadhead my ivy geranium?

Yes, removing spent flower clusters helps the plant look tidy and encourages it to produce more blooms. Simply snap off the old stems at the base.

Will my ivy geranium flower indoors?

It is difficult to get them to bloom well indoors because they require very intense, direct light. They are much happier and more likely to flower when kept outdoors in the sun.

Why is my ivy geranium not blooming? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Measure the hours of direct sunlight the plant receives.
Check the fertilizer label to see if it is high in nitrogen.
Look for old, spent flowers that need deadheading.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks leggy with long spaces between leaves and produces only foliage. It is likely sitting in a spot that is too shady.
What to do: Move the plant to a location that receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Ensure it is not blocked by trees or structures.
Excessive Nitrogen Fertilizer
Possible
How to tell: The plant is very green and lush but shows no signs of flower buds. This is less common for this plant, and usually happens when using a fertilizer meant only for leafy growth.
What to do: Switch to a bloom boosting fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content. Apply it every 2 weeks during the growing season to encourage flower production.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your ivy-leaved 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

If the plant is healthy and green but has not flowered by midsummer, it needs more sun. It is normal for the plant to take a break from blooming during extreme heat waves.

Stopping it coming back

Provide plenty of direct sun and remove faded flowers regularly to encourage the plant to put energy into new buds.

Ivy-leaved geranium: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your ivy-leaved 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

Do I need to deadhead my ivy geranium?: Yes, removing spent flower clusters helps the plant look tidy and encourages it to produce more blooms. Simply snap off the old stems at the base.
Will my ivy geranium flower indoors?: It is difficult to get them to bloom well indoors because they require very intense, direct light. They are much happier and more likely to flower when kept outdoors in the sun.

Why is my ivy geranium not blooming?