How to Keep Geraniums Over Winter: Expert Tips

How to Keep Geraniums Over Winter?

To keep geraniums over winter, you have a few options.

One way is to take stem cuttings from the plant, dip them in rooting hormone, and stick them in a pot with vermiculite or a mixture of perlite and sphagnum peat moss.

Another option is to pot up individual plants and overwinter them indoors.

Simply dig up each plant, place it in a large pot, water it thoroughly, and put it in a sunny window or under artificial lighting.

Water the plants about every two weeks.

Lastly, you can store bare-root geraniums.

Dig them up before the first fall frost, remove all soil from the roots, and store them in a cool, dry location.

In March, prune back dead material, pot the plants, and place them in a sunny window or under artificial lighting.

Pruned and potted geraniums should grow into attractive plants that can be planted outdoors after the last frost.

Key Points:

  • Take stem cuttings, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in pot with vermiculite or perlite and sphagnum peat moss
  • Pot up individual plants and overwinter them indoors
  • Dig up plants, place in large pot, water thoroughly, and put in sunny window or under artificial lighting
  • Water plants every two weeks
  • Store bare-root geraniums by digging them up, removing soil from roots, and storing in cool, dry location
  • Prune back dead material, pot the plants, and place them in sunny window or under artificial lighting in March.


Did You Know?

1. Geraniums were introduced to Europe in the 17th century from South Africa and were originally grown as ornamental plants for their vibrant flowers and unique fragrance.

2. Geraniums are not actually true geraniums. They belong to the Pelargonium genus, but due to their resemblance to true geraniums, they are commonly referred to as geraniums.

3. To keep geraniums over winter, it is best to store them dormant. This means cutting them back, digging up the roots, and storing them in a cool, dark place with minimal watering until spring.

4. Geraniums are not only beautiful, but they also have insect-repelling properties. They release a natural scent that deters insects such as mosquitoes, making them a great addition to outdoor summer gardens.

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5. In ancient times, geraniums were associated with healing properties and were used in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues and skin conditions.

Overwintering Geraniums Indoors

Geraniums, also known as Pelargoniums, are cherished annual flowers in the state of Minnesota. These beautiful plants can brighten up any garden with their vibrant colors and delightful fragrance. However, with the onset of winter, it becomes necessary to provide special care to ensure their survival. Fortunately, there are several methods to overwinter geraniums indoors, allowing you to enjoy their beauty year after year.

Taking Stem Cuttings For Overwintering

Taking stem cuttings is one of the most popular ways to overwinter geraniums. This method involves pruning the plant and selecting 3- to 4-inch stem cuttings from the tips of the plant. To increase the chances of successful rooting, dip the base of each cutting in a rooting hormone. Next, insert the cuttings into a pot or flat containing vermiculite or a mixture of perlite and sphagnum peat moss. After all the cuttings are inserted, it is important to water the container thoroughly. To maintain the humidity required for successful rooting, consider placing a clear plastic bag or dome over the cuttings. Lastly, position the cuttings in an area with bright, indirect light.

Rooting Geranium Cuttings In A Pot

After approximately six to eight weeks, the cuttings should have successfully rooted. At this point, it is time to remove the rooted cuttings from the rooting medium and plant each one in its own pot. This ensures that each geranium has enough space to grow and develop healthy roots. Fill each pot with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. To provide the best environment for growth, place these potted geraniums in a sunny window or under artificial lighting. During the winter months, water the plants about every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. It is important to note that geraniums prefer daytime temperatures of 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with slightly cooler nighttime temperatures.

Caring For Overwintered Potted Geraniums

To promote healthy growth and maintain the desired shape of geraniums, pruning is necessary in March. Pruning involves removing one-half to two-thirds of each plant, which may seem drastic, but it stimulates new growth. Within a few days, the plants will begin to sprout new foliage and should develop into attractive plants by May.
During the winter months, regular waterings should be provided, ensuring that the soil is never overly saturated. Additionally, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases, as indoor plants can still be susceptible to these issues.

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Overwintering Bare-Root Geraniums

Another method to overwinter geraniums is by storing them as bare-root plants. This process should be done before the first fall frost. Begin by digging up the geraniums, being careful to remove all soil from the roots. Next, store the bare-root geraniums in a cool, dry location until spring. Alternatively, you can hang the plants upside down in a cool, dry area.

When March arrives, it is time to prepare the geraniums for the upcoming growing season. Remove any dead material and prune back to live stem tissue. Then, pot the plants using well-draining soil and water thoroughly.

Pruning And Potting Geraniums For Spring Planting

Pruning and Potting Geraniums: Pruning and potting geraniums during the late winter or early spring is vital in preparing them for outdoor planting after the last frost. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Prune: Start by pruning the geraniums back by one-half to two-thirds. This pruning method will encourage new and bushier growth.
  • Repot: After pruning, repot the geraniums in fresh soil. Make sure the pot you choose provides adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
  • Watering: Thoroughly water the newly potted plants to ensure they are properly hydrated.
  • Lighting: To support healthy growth, place the potted geraniums in a sunny window or under artificial lighting.
  • Proper Care: With proper care and attention, these pruned and potted geraniums will develop into attractive plants, ready to enhance your garden once again after the last frost.

“keeping geraniums over winter in Minnesota requires a little extra effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Whether you choose to take stem cuttings, root them in a pot, or store them as bare-root plants, these methods can help ensure the survival of your cherished geraniums. By providing the right conditions, including proper lighting, humidity, and temperature, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of geraniums year after year. So, embrace the joy of overwintering geraniums and look forward to their vibrant blooms in the coming seasons.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep geraniums in pots over winter?

Yes, geraniums can be kept in pots over winter. To ensure their survival, it is recommended to relocate the pots to a sheltered area such as a garage or shed where the plants can be protected from freezing temperatures. While in their winter hideaway, it is important to provide the geraniums with some indirect sunlight to maintain their health. By following these steps, you can enjoy the vibrant blooms of your geraniums year-round.

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How long do potted geraniums last?

Potted geraniums typically have an average life expectancy of around two years. After this period, they may become woody and experience a decline in blooming. However, the good news is that geraniums are simple to propagate. By taking stem tip cuttings that are at least four inches long and have two pairs of healthy leaves, you can easily create new plants and extend the lifespan of your geraniums.

Do geraniums need full sun?

Geraniums have diverse preferences when it comes to sunlight. Annual geraniums thrive in full sun, except for the ivy geranium, which prefers light shade. On the other hand, perennial geraniums are more flexible and can grow successfully in either sun or shade, depending on the specific type. Regardless of the type, geraniums would benefit from some protection from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

Can you feed geraniums in winter?

During the winter months, it is important to water and feed geraniums cautiously. The foliage of geraniums may become pale green or yellow, and numerous leaves may fall off, resulting in a rather unkempt appearance by the end of winter. However, if the geraniums manage to survive until early spring, they will reward you with the emergence of new buds as the days become longer and brighter.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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