Pelargoniums: The Joyful Cottage Garden Plant You Need This Spring
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about Pelargoniums.
I was recently given a Pelargonium grown from a cutting.
It wasn’t just any plant. It was a cutting of Attar of Roses, lovingly propagated by my friend’s late brother. He had grown it himself, and after he passed away, my friend continued nurturing that plant — taking cuttings so that pieces of it could live on.
When she gave one to me, it felt incredibly special.
Perhaps it’s their sun-warmed scent on a greenhouse shelf, or the way their velvety leaves glow in the golden light of early spring. Whatever it is, pelargoniums are one of those plants that instantly make a space feel loved.
This March, in time for Mother's day. I’ll be offering a beautiful selection of pelargoniums through Hillside Farm Flowers — carefully chosen varieties that are full of character, colour and charm.
But before they arrive in the shop, I thought I’d share why I love them so much.
What Are Pelargoniums?
Often mistaken for geraniums (and commonly called that!), pelargoniums are actually a different genus within the same plant family. The confusion dates back to early botanical naming in Europe.
True geraniums are hardy perennials. Pelargoniums, on the other hand, are tender and thrive in pots, greenhouses, conservatories and sunny windowsills.
Their appeal lies in:
Vibrant flower colours
Beautifully scented foliage
Long flowering season
Easy care
Perfect suitability for containers
They’re a cottage garden classic — but equally at home in modern spaces.
Why Pelargoniums Are Perfect for Early Spring
In March, we’re all craving colour.
Pelargoniums bridge that seasonal gap beautifully. They start life indoors or in a greenhouse, bringing life and optimism to those lingering grey days.
By late spring and summer, they’ll happily spill from terracotta pots, zinc planters or vintage containers, flowering generously until autumn.
They’re also wonderfully sustainable plants:
They thrive in pots (ideal for small gardens)
They’re easy to overwinter
They can be propagated from cuttings
They’re long-lived with proper care
For those of us who love growing with intention, that matters.
Scented Pelargoniums: A Hidden Gem
One of the loveliest things about certain pelargoniums is their scent.
Brush past the leaves and you’ll find notes of:
Rose
Lemon
Mint
Apple
Spice
They’re beautiful near doorways, in courtyards or on windowsills where you can enjoy their fragrance daily.
How to Care for Pelargoniums
They’re far less fussy than people think.
Light: Bright light is essential. A sunny windowsill or greenhouse is perfect.
Water: Allow compost to dry slightly between waterings — they dislike sitting in soggy soil.
Feeding: A weekly liquid feed once flowering begins keeps them thriving.
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Overwintering: Before the first frost, bring indoors and reduce watering.
With minimal effort, they’ll reward you for months.
Why I’m So Excited to Offer Them This March
At Hillside Farm Flowers, I’m always drawn to plants that feel joyful, nostalgic and enduring — and pelargoniums tick every box.
They’re plants you grow once and fall in love with forever.
If you’re looking to bring colour into your home this spring, or you want a gift that feels thoughtful and long-lasting, they’re a beautiful choice.
Keep an eye on the shop — they’ll be arriving in March 🌿