Geraniums are popular for their vibrant color and extended blooming season, making them a common choice for filling containers, beds, and window boxes. Sourcing the right seeds is the first step toward successful cultivation. Buying geranium seeds involves understanding the botanical differences, exploring vendor types, and confirming the quality of the product.
Understanding True Geranium vs. Common Geranium Seeds
The first consideration is the significant difference between the two plants commonly called “geraniums.” The vast majority of seeds sold commercially for bedding plants, containers, and window boxes are actually from the genus Pelargonium. These are tender annuals, known for their large, asymmetric five-petaled flowers and distinct, often fragrant, foliage.
True geraniums belong to the genus Geranium, which are hardy, perennial plants commonly known as cranesbills. Geranium species feature smaller, symmetrical five-petaled flowers and are generally more cold-tolerant, making them ideal for ground cover or permanent outdoor planting. Buyers must decide whether they want the common, brightly colored Pelargonium or the hardy, landscape-friendly Geranium species, as the two are botanically distinct. Pelargonium seeds are widely available from general retailers, but Geranium species seeds may require more specialized sourcing.
Primary Sources for Purchasing Seeds
The best purchasing location depends on whether you seek the common annual Pelargonium or the perennial Geranium seeds.
Sources for Pelargonium Seeds
General online retailers and major garden seed companies are the easiest place to find Pelargonium seeds. These vendors offer a wide selection of hybrid varieties, like the ‘Maverick’ or ‘Pinto’ series, which are bred for uniform growth and flower production. Buyers on large marketplaces must carefully vet individual sellers to confirm seed quality and botanical identity. Local nurseries and garden centers are excellent for purchasing Pelargonium seeds during the planting season but may only carry a limited selection of common varieties.
Sources for Geranium Seeds
For true Geranium species, especially rare or heritage varieties, specialized seed catalogs and focused online plant vendors are often the most reliable source. These companies typically cater to experienced gardeners and offer seeds with accurate species names, such as Geranium rozanne or Geranium macrorrhizum. For unique or uncommon Geranium seeds, exploring local seed exchanges or sales held by botanical gardens can sometimes yield interesting, locally adapted varieties.
Selecting High-Quality and Viable Seeds
Once a source is identified, ensuring the quality and viability of the seeds is a crucial final step. Always check the seed packet for a recent packing date, as seed viability naturally decreases over time. New seeds generally boast a germination rate of 90% or higher, but this percentage can drop significantly after a few years.
Reputable vendors often list an explicit germination rate on the package or their website, indicating the expected percentage of seeds that will sprout. If this information is unavailable, you can perform a simple home viability test by placing a small sample of seeds on a damp paper towel, rolling it up, and placing it in a warm, sealed bag. Counting the number of seeds that sprout after the expected germination period will give a reliable estimate of the seed lot’s viability. If the result is below 50%, you will need to sow a higher number of seeds to achieve the desired planting density.