Simplicity at its best! My favorite variety of all geraniums, caliente geraniums provides a show all summer. This variety keeps blooming even in the hottest weather. It comes in a wide array of colors. This variety is a cross between zonal and ivy geraniums, so it has a semi-trailing habit.

RECIPE:
• (1) Geranium “Caliente Rose”

TIPS:
• Many of the major box stores sell caliente geraniums in hanging baskets containing four plants. I often buy a basket and separate the plants to use in containers. This is usually less expensive than purchasing the individual plants.
• Geraniums need frequent deadheading (removal of spent blossoms) in order to maintain continuous blooms.
• Geraniums are heavy feeders. Fertilize every two weeks according to fertilizer directions.
• Geraniums prefer moist but well-drained soil. Water as soon as the soil appears to be on the dry side.
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The giant blooms on this tropical hibiscus tree provide such a “wow” factor! I like to surround the tree with a coordinating small-blossomed flower as a filler/spiller.

RECIPE:
• (1) Tropical hibiscus tree “President’s Red”
• (4) Calibrachoa “Tropical Sunrise”
• (3) Vinca “Cora Cascade Apricot”

TIPS:
• The hibiscus tree is a heavy feeder. Fertilize every two weeks according to fertilizer directions.
• Hibiscus plants require consistent watering to prevent yellowing leaves and dropped buds. Do not let the soil dry out completely.
• Trim the calibrachoa plants occasionally to keep them fresh and full looking.
• Notice I have used a plastic container set inside the heavy ceramic container. I do this so that I can move the hibiscus tree to safety when bad weather looms!
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