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Cornell University : Cornell Cooperative Extension
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| Yates Association |
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Geraniums - Keeping Over Winter |
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There are several methods of keeping bedding Geraniums over winter. The preferred method is to take cuttings in the fall just prior to a killing frost. Geranium stem cuttings, also called slips, should be three to four inches long, and taken from the tops of the stems. Remove the lowest set of leaves from the cutting. Pot cuttings in moist, sterile, peat type mix. Cuttings can sometimes be rooted in water. Normal rooting time is about three to four weeks. Keep cuttings out of the direct sunlight. and ideally at temperatures between sixty and seventy degrees. Check the rooting medium often to be sure it is moist. After cuttings have formed roots, transplant the rooted cuttings in pots, using a well-drained soil mix. Rather than taking cuttings, some prefer to dig the large plants and bring them inside to over winter. Cut the plant back to about one third of its original size and pot it in a large flower pot. Water thoroughly and place them in a cool room near a south window but not in direct sunlight. Lower large leaves may turn yellow and fall. This is normal when geraniums are grown indoors. Keep the soil somewhat dry. New growth may become weak and leggy because of inadequate light. Over grown plants can be pruned back occasionally to keep them attractive. In the late winter, begin to water frequently and fertilize them with a water soluble plant food once a week. Another method is to dig the entire plant prior to frost, shake off the soil and hang it from its roots from the rafters in the basement. Modern basements sometimes prove to be too warm and have too low humidity, but some people report success in their basements. If you have the plants and the space, this might be a method to try. If you decide to try it, take the plants down several times during the winter and place their roots to soak in water for a couple of hours to prevent the plants from drying, then hang them back up. No matter which method you choose, keep the plants inside until all danger of frost is past in the spring. Cornell
Cooperative Extension Yates Association |
