In this first part of the Geranium Series at North Port Blooms, I walk through the complete process of starting geranium seeds from scratch. This is a real-time backyard propagation project showing exactly how seeds are prepared, planted, and set up for germination.
The goal is simple: document the full journey from seed to bloom so anyone can follow the same process at home.
ðŋ Materials Used
For this germination setup, the following materials were used:
- Peat moss
- Perlite
- 5-gallon mixing bucket
- Hand trowel
- Seed trays
- Water spray bottle
- Geranium seeds
- Humidity domes
ðŠī Step 1: Preparing the Seed Starting Mix
The seed starting medium is a simple 50/50 blend:
- 50% peat moss
- 50% perlite
This combination creates a light, airy soil mix that holds moisture while still allowing proper drainage and oxygen flow for seed development.
The ingredients are measured and mixed thoroughly in a bucket until the texture is evenly combined.
ð§âðū Step 2: Filling the Seed Trays
Once the mix is ready, the seed trays are filled evenly. The goal is to create a consistent base without compacting the soil too tightly.
Proper airflow in the medium is important at this stage to support strong germination.
ð§ Step 3: Pre-Wetting the Soil
Before planting the seeds, the soil is heavily misted and moistened.
This step ensures:
- The mix is evenly damp
- Seeds will not float after planting
- Moisture is already distributed throughout the tray
This creates an ideal environment for germination to begin immediately.
ð° Step 4: Planting the Geranium Seeds
Geranium seeds are carefully sprinkled across the surface of the moist soil.
At this stage:
- No deep planting is required
- Seeds remain near the surface
- Spacing is kept fairly even for growth room
ðŦïļ Step 5: Final Moisture and Coverage
After planting, lightly press the seeds into the soil mix and mist again, this can help settle the seeds into place.
Then, clear humidity domes are placed over the trays to:
- Maintain consistent moisture
- Create a controlled germination environment
- Protect seeds during early development
âģ Germination Timeline
Geranium seeds typically take:
ð 7 to 21 days to germinate
Growth will depend on:
- Temperature
- Moisture consistency
- Light conditions
ðŋ What Comes Next
This is only Part 1 of the series.
Future updates will include:
- Germination progress (7-day check-in)
- Seedling development
- Transplanting into pots
- Long-term growth and flowering stages
Each stage will be documented as the plants develop inside the North Port Blooms backyard nursery.
ðž Follow the Series
This project is part of a larger growing system at North Port Blooms, where real plants are propagated, tracked, and shared from start to finish.
Follow along to see the full transformation from seed to blooming geraniums.
ð North Port Blooms
Backyard-grown plants, propagation experiments, and real-time growing systems based in Florida.