As a horticulture and landscaping expert , I understand the importance of properly winter geraniums to ensure their selection for the next arise time of year . Geraniums , also known as pelargoniums , are not winter - hardy plants , which means they can not tolerate freeze temperatures . Therefore , it is crucial to make for them inwardly before the first freeze if you need to keep them thriving .

The timing for bringing geraniums indoors is typically before the first icing in your sphere . It is essential to keep an eye on the weather prognosis and be prepared to act accordingly . Once temperatures start cast off and frost becomes a possibility , it ’s clip to set out plan for the transition .

travail up your geraniums from the garden is the first step in the process . It is best to do this when the grunge is still relatively dry . lightly loosen the filth around the theme of the geranium plant , taking concern not to damage the etymon . step by step lift the plant life from the reason , guarantee you get as much of the theme system as possible .

Next , you will need worthy pots to house your geranium for the wintertime . Choose containers that are gravid enough to accommodate the stem system comfortably . It is important to bring home the bacon ample space for the roots to get and spread . Additionally , using tidy sum with drainage yap at the bottom will help preclude marshy soil and potential root rot .

Before placing the geranium in the pots , it is a good idea to trim back any excessively long or leggy ontogenesis . This will aid promote a more stocky and goodly plant during the winter months . Be certain to absent any discredited or diseased leaves as well .

Once your geraniums are in their new crapper , water them thoroughly . This initial watering will help go down the filth around the roots and ensure right hydration . However , it is crucial not to overwater them throughout the winter . geranium have a trend to rot if they are kept too slopped in cool condition , so allow for the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings .

Finding the right-hand locating indoors for your geranium is essential . They postulate brilliant visible light to fly high , so choose a spot that receives at least six time of day of unmediated sun each day . Confederacy - facing windows are usually idealistic for providing the necessary light strength . If instinctive visible light is limited , you may add on it with hokey grow lights to ensure the plant receive adequate illumination .

uphold a consistent temperature is also important for overwintering geraniums . They prefer temperatures between 60 - 70 ° F ( 15 - 21 ° C ) . void placing them near frigid tipple or areas that experience uttermost temperature fluctuations , such as dear doors or windows . keep them by from heating vent is also advisable to keep the soil from drying out too quickly .

During the wintertime months , geraniums enter a hibernating period where they need less water and nutrients . Therefore , it is important to slim down the oftenness of watering . Only water when the top inch of land feels juiceless to the cutaneous senses . Overwatering can precede to root rot , while underwatering can do the plant to become stressed and wilted .

In add-on to proper watering , it is also beneficial to fertilize geraniums during their wintertime dormancy . Use a balanced , water - soluble fertilizer debase to half the commend speciality . Apply the fertilizer once a month to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth .

on a regular basis inspect your geranium for any sign of pest or diseases . Indoor environment can sometimes create favorable conditions for pestilence like aphid , spider mites , or whitefly . If you notice any infestations , take appropriate measures to keep in line and eliminate them . Pruning away any septic or damage foliage can also help foreclose the spread of diseases .

By following these guideline and furnish the necessary upkeep , your geranium should go the winter indoors and be quick to expand again in the outpouring . Remember to supervise their progress regularly , making adjustments as needed to ensure their optimal health and outgrowth .

Personal Experience : I have been overwintering geranium for many twelvemonth , and it has become a routine part of my horticulture practice . I normally convey them indoors a hebdomad or two before the first frost is forecasted in my orbit . This timing ensures that I have enough time to labor them up from the garden and prepare them for their indoor halt . I have found that give them a in effect clipping before bringing them deep down aid upgrade compact growth and keep them from becoming too leggy during the winter months . to boot , finding a bright blot near a Confederacy - facing window has worked well for me , as it provides ample sunlight throughout the day . With right care and attention , my geraniums have successfully survived the wintertime indoors and rewarded me with beautiful bloom in the following spring .

Caroline Bates