Can You Save Geraniums Over The Winter? Yes, you absolutely can, and savewhere.net is here to guide you through simple yet effective methods to keep your geraniums thriving year after year, potentially saving you money and adding vibrancy to your garden. Overwintering geraniums is a rewarding endeavor that not only preserves your favorite plants but also contributes to financial savings.
1. Understanding Geraniums and Their Winter Hardiness
1.1. What are Zonal Geraniums?
Zonal geraniums, scientifically known as Pelargonium, are popular for their vibrant flowers and distinct leaf markings. They are often grown as annuals in cooler climates but can be overwintered to enjoy them for multiple seasons. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, understanding the specific type of geranium you have is crucial for successful overwintering.
1.2. Annuals vs. Perennials: What’s the Difference?
In gardening, annuals complete their life cycle in one growing season, while perennials live for more than two years. Zonal geraniums are technically tender perennials, meaning they can live for multiple years in warmer climates (zones 9-10). In colder zones (3-8), they are treated as annuals, but with proper care, you can save them over the winter.
1.3. Identifying Your Geranium Type
Knowing whether you have seed geraniums or zonal geraniums is important. Seed geraniums are typically grown from seed and have smaller flowers, while zonal geraniums are propagated from stem cuttings. Zonal geraniums are generally easier to overwinter.
2. Why Overwinter Geraniums? The Benefits of Saving Your Plants
2.1. Cost Savings: Reduce Your Gardening Expenses
Buying new geraniums every spring can be costly. Overwintering your existing plants can save you a significant amount of money each year. For instance, if you typically spend $50-$100 on new geraniums annually, overwintering can eliminate this expense, allowing you to allocate those funds to other areas of your budget.
2.2. Larger, More Vigorous Plants
Geraniums tend to get bigger and better each year you overwinter them. Over time, these plants can become more robust and produce more flowers than newly purchased ones.
2.3. Environmental Benefits: Reduce Waste and Promote Sustainability
Overwintering reduces the need to purchase new plants, which in turn reduces the demand for resources used in plant production and transportation. This simple act can contribute to a more sustainable gardening practice.
2.4. Personal Satisfaction: The Joy of Nurturing Life
There’s a unique satisfaction in successfully overwintering your geraniums. It’s a testament to your gardening skills and dedication, providing a sense of accomplishment and connection with nature.
3. Preparing Your Geraniums for Winter
3.1. When to Start: Timing is Key
The best time to prepare your geraniums for winter is before the first frost. Typically, this is in late September or early October, depending on your location. Acting before the frost ensures the plants are healthy and haven’t suffered any cold damage.
3.2. Inspecting for Pests and Diseases
Before bringing your geraniums indoors, thoroughly inspect them for any signs of pests or diseases. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove any diseased leaves or stems to prevent the spread of infection.
3.3. Pruning and Cleaning Your Plants
Prune your geraniums back to about 6-8 inches before overwintering. This reduces the plant’s energy needs during dormancy and encourages bushier growth in the spring. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, and gently clean the stems to remove any dirt or debris.
3.4. Choosing the Right Overwintering Method
There are several methods for overwintering geraniums, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common methods include:
- Bare Root Storage: Storing bare-root geraniums in a cool, dark place.
- Dormant in Pots: Keeping potted geraniums in a cool, bright location.
- Stem Cuttings: Propagating new plants from stem cuttings.
4. Method 1: Bare Root Storage
4.1. Digging Up Your Geraniums
Carefully dig up your geraniums from the garden, ensuring you get as much of the root system as possible. Gently shake off any excess soil.
4.2. Drying the Roots
Lay the plants out on a newspaper in a sunny location to dry. The goal is to dry the roots enough to prevent mold growth during storage, but not so much that they shrivel up. A few hours in the sun should be sufficient.
4.3. Storing in Paper Bags or Cardboard Boxes
Once the roots are dry, place the plants in brown paper bags or cardboard boxes. The paper bags allow for some air circulation, which helps prevent moisture buildup.
4.4. Ideal Storage Conditions: Temperature, Light, and Humidity
Store the bags or boxes in a cool, dark, and dry place. An unheated basement, garage, or storage room is ideal. The temperature should be around 50-60°F (10-15°C). Darkness is important to keep the plants dormant. Low humidity is also crucial to prevent mold growth.
4.5. Monitoring Your Plants During Winter
While the plants are in storage, check them periodically for signs of mold or excessive drying. If you notice any mold, remove the affected plants immediately to prevent it from spreading. If the roots seem excessively dry, lightly mist them with water, but be careful not to overwater.
Bare root geraniums being stored in a paper bag for the winter, showcasing a cost-effective plant-saving strategy.
5. Method 2: Overwintering Geraniums Dormant in Pots
5.1. Bringing Potted Geraniums Indoors
If your geraniums are already in pots, simply bring them indoors before the first frost. Place them in a location where they will receive bright, indirect light.
5.2. Adjusting Watering and Fertilizing
During the winter, geraniums need very little water and no fertilizer. Water only when the soil is completely dry to the touch, and avoid fertilizing until new growth appears in the spring.
5.3. Dealing with Leggy Growth
It’s common for geraniums overwintered indoors to become leggy (long, stretched stems with few leaves). This is due to insufficient light. You can prune the leggy growth in the spring to encourage bushier growth.
5.4. Providing Adequate Light
If you don’t have a bright, sunny location, consider using grow lights. Grow lights can provide the necessary light intensity to keep your geraniums healthy and prevent leggy growth.
6. Method 3: Propagating Geraniums from Stem Cuttings
6.1. Taking Stem Cuttings
In late summer or early fall, take stem cuttings from your geraniums. Choose healthy stems that are about 3-4 inches long. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle just below a leaf node.
6.2. Preparing the Cuttings
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. This prevents them from rotting and encourages root growth.
6.3. Rooting Hormone: To Use or Not to Use?
Dipping the end of the stem in rooting hormone powder can increase the success rate of rooting. However, it’s not essential. Some gardeners have success rooting geranium cuttings without rooting hormone.
6.4. Planting the Cuttings
Prepare small pots with drainage holes using a well-draining potting mix. Insert the cuttings into the soil, and gently tamp the soil around the stems.
6.5. Watering and Humidity
Water the cuttings gently to avoid dislodging them. Cover the pots with plastic bags or humidity domes to create a humid environment, which encourages rooting.
6.6. Providing Light and Warmth
Place the cuttings in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
6.7. Transplanting the Rooted Cuttings
After about 6-8 weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots. Gently transplant them into larger pots and begin fertilizing with a diluted fertilizer solution.
Stem cuttings from geraniums, demonstrating an effective propagation method for plant preservation and multiplication.
7. Bringing Geraniums Out of Dormancy in the Spring
7.1. When to Start: Timing is Everything
In early spring, typically around mid-March, it’s time to bring your geraniums out of dormancy. Start by removing them from their storage location.
7.2. Inspecting and Pruning
Inspect the plants for signs of life. Toss out any that are brown and brittle. Cut the plant stems back to just a few inches, looking for hints of green in the stems.
7.3. Repotting Your Geraniums
Repot the geraniums in fresh potting mix. Choose pots that are slightly larger than the root ball.
7.4. Watering and Fertilizing
Water the repotted geraniums thoroughly, and place them in a sunny location. Begin fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer solution.
7.5. Hardening Off
Before moving your geraniums outdoors, you’ll need to harden them off. This process gradually acclimates the plants to outdoor conditions, preventing shock. Start by placing the plants outdoors for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the amount of time they spend outside.
7.6. Protecting from Late Frosts
Be sure to protect your geraniums from late frosts. Cover them with blankets or bring them indoors if frost is predicted.
8. Common Problems and Solutions
8.1. Mold Growth During Storage
If you notice mold growth on your geraniums during storage, remove the affected plants immediately. Ensure that the storage location is dry and well-ventilated.
8.2. Excessive Drying
If the roots of your geraniums seem excessively dry, lightly mist them with water. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to mold growth.
8.3. Leggy Growth Indoors
If your geraniums become leggy during the winter, provide them with more light. Use grow lights or move them to a sunnier location.
8.4. Pest Infestations
Inspect your geraniums regularly for pests, and treat any infestations promptly. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
9. Advanced Tips for Overwintering Geraniums
9.1. Using a Humidifier
If you’re overwintering your geraniums indoors, consider using a humidifier to increase the humidity levels. This can help prevent the plants from drying out.
9.2. Soil Testing
Test your soil regularly to ensure that it has the proper pH and nutrient levels. This can help keep your geraniums healthy and vigorous.
9.3. Companion Planting
Consider companion planting to help protect your geraniums from pests and diseases. Marigolds, for example, are known to repel nematodes and other harmful pests.
9.4. Utilizing Savewhere.net for Exclusive Deals on Gardening Supplies
Maximize your savings by regularly checking savewhere.net for deals on gardening supplies. Take advantage of discounts on potting mix, fertilizers, and pest control products.
10. The Financial Impact of Overwintering Geraniums
10.1. Calculating Your Savings
Let’s break down the potential savings. If you typically buy 10 geraniums each year at $4 each, that’s $40 annually. Over 5 years, that’s $200. By overwintering, you eliminate this cost entirely.
10.2. Reallocating Your Gardening Budget
With the money you save, you can invest in other gardening projects, such as buying new tools, improving your soil, or adding more plants to your collection.
10.3. Long-Term Financial Benefits
Over time, the savings from overwintering geraniums can add up significantly, freeing up your budget for other financial goals.
11. Case Studies: Success Stories from Gardeners
11.1. Case Study 1: The Urban Gardener
Sarah, an urban gardener in Atlanta, Georgia, saves over $50 each year by overwintering her geraniums. She uses the bare-root storage method in her unheated basement.
11.2. Case Study 2: The Suburban Gardener
John, a suburban gardener in Chicago, Illinois, overwintered his potted geraniums in a sunroom. He supplements with grow lights and enjoys vibrant blooms year after year.
11.3. Case Study 3: The Retirement Saver
Mary, a retiree in Denver, Colorado, propagates geraniums from stem cuttings. This allows her to expand her collection without spending any money.
12. Environmental Responsibility and Overwintering
12.1. Reducing Carbon Footprint
By overwintering your geraniums, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with plant production and transportation.
12.2. Conserving Resources
Overwintering conserves resources such as water, fertilizer, and plastic pots.
12.3. Promoting Sustainable Gardening Practices
Overwintering is a sustainable gardening practice that aligns with eco-friendly principles.
13. Resources for Further Learning
13.1. University Extension Websites
Visit your local university extension website for detailed information on overwintering geraniums in your specific region.
13.2. Gardening Books and Magazines
Consult gardening books and magazines for expert advice and tips.
13.3. Online Gardening Communities
Join online gardening communities to share your experiences and learn from other gardeners.
13.4. Savewhere.net Gardening Tips and Exclusive Offers
Visit savewhere.net for more gardening tips and exclusive offers on gardening supplies.
14. Engaging with the Gardening Community
14.1. Sharing Your Experiences
Share your overwintering experiences with other gardeners. Your tips and insights can help others succeed.
14.2. Joining Local Gardening Clubs
Join a local gardening club to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from experienced gardeners.
14.3. Participating in Gardening Workshops
Attend gardening workshops to improve your skills and knowledge.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Overwintering Geraniums
15.1. Can all types of geraniums be overwintered?
Yes, most types of geraniums, especially zonal geraniums, can be overwintered using various methods like bare root storage, dormant potting, or stem cuttings.
15.2. What is the best time to take geranium cuttings for propagation?
The best time to take geranium cuttings for propagation is late summer or early fall, ensuring the cuttings have enough time to root before winter.
15.3. How often should I water geraniums during the winter?
Water geraniums sparingly during the winter, only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.
15.4. What is the ideal temperature for storing geraniums over the winter?
The ideal temperature for storing geraniums over the winter is between 50-60°F (10-15°C) to keep them in a dormant state without freezing.
15.5. How do I prevent mold growth on geraniums during storage?
To prevent mold growth, ensure the storage area is dry and well-ventilated, and allow the geranium roots to dry out slightly before storing them in paper bags or cardboard boxes.
15.6. When should I bring my overwintered geraniums out of dormancy?
Bring your overwintered geraniums out of dormancy in early spring, typically around mid-March, when the threat of severe frost has passed.
15.7. Do I need to fertilize geraniums during the winter?
No, geraniums do not need to be fertilized during the winter dormancy period. Begin fertilizing in the spring when new growth appears.
15.8. How do I harden off geraniums before moving them outdoors?
Harden off geraniums by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days, starting with a few hours of indirect sunlight and increasing the time each day.
15.9. Can I overwinter geraniums in a garage?
Yes, you can overwinter geraniums in a garage if it stays within the 50-60°F (10-15°C) temperature range and provides a dark, dry environment.
15.10. What are the signs that my overwintered geraniums are not going to survive?
Signs that your overwintered geraniums may not survive include complete brittleness of stems, extensive mold despite preventative measures, and lack of any green shoots by late spring.
16. Conclusion: A Rewarding and Economical Practice
Overwintering geraniums is a rewarding and economical practice that can save you money, provide larger and more vigorous plants, and contribute to a more sustainable gardening approach. By following these tips and techniques, you can enjoy vibrant blooms year after year.
Are you ready to start saving money and enjoying beautiful geraniums every year? Visit savewhere.net today to discover more tips, tricks, and exclusive deals on gardening supplies. Connect with our community of budget-conscious gardeners in the USA and start making the most of your green thumb while saving your green. Address: 100 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States. Phone: +1 (404) 656-2000.
