How to Overwinter Zonal geranium
1
Zonal geranium flowers abundantly from spring through autumn and can be readily kept over winter for continued attractiveness annually.
2
It is sensitive to cold, meaning it cannot endure temperatures under 0°C (32°F).
3
Zonal geranium may be stored indoors during winter as house plants, without soil, or in containers, depending on your choice.
The Benefits of Overwintering Your Zonal geranium
The Benefits of Overwintering Your Zonal geranium
Overwintering your Zonal geranium offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy its vibrant blooms annually without needing to buy new plants each season. Due to their sensitivity to frost, Zonal geraniums will die if left outdoors in freezing conditions. By taking a few careful steps to overwinter them, you can ensure your garden stays colorful and lively every spring. This not only saves money but also extends the lifespan of your Zonal geraniums, making them a more sustainable choice for your garden.
Preparing Your Zonal geranium for Winter Storage
When to Begin Preparation
The optimal time to start preparing your Zonal geranium for overwintering is a few weeks prior to the first anticipated frost. Depending on your location, this could range from late summer to early autumn. By monitoring local weather forecasts, you can identify the perfect moment to start the process, ensuring your plants are ready before the cold weather arrives.
Essential Tools and Supplies
Preparation is crucial. Gather pruning shears, gardening gloves, a mild insecticidal soap, and suitable containers if you intend to bring the geraniums inside. For bare-root storage, you'll need paper bags and a cool, dark location. If you opt to store them in pots, ensure the pots are clean and appropriately sized for your plants.
Various Methods for Overwintering Zonal geranium
Method 1: Bringing Them Indoors as Houseplants
One of the most common ways to overwinter Zonal geranium is by treating them as indoor plants. Trim the plants back to about half their original size to manage their growth indoors. Thoroughly inspect and clean your plants to eliminate any pests. Place them in pots with fresh potting mix and position them in a sunny window where they can receive at least 6-8 hours of indirect sunlight daily. Water them sparingly, ensuring the soil is slightly damp but not waterlogged.
Method 2: Storing Bare-Root
Bare-root storage involves removing the Zonal geraniums from their soil. Shake off excess soil from the roots and allow the plants to air dry for a day in a shaded area. Once dry, place them in paper bags and store them in a cool, dark place such as a basement where temperatures range between 4-10°C (40-50°F). Periodically check for any signs of mold or rot, and discard any unhealthy plants.
Method 3: Storing in Pots
If space allows, you can store your geraniums in their existing pots. Prune the plants back by approximately one-third. Move the pots to a cool, dark area like a garage or basement where temperatures remain above freezing. Water the plants sparingly; only when the soil is completely dry to the touch.
Winter Care for Zonal geranium
Watering and Humidity Needs
During the colder months, Zonal geraniums require minimal watering. It's vital to only water when the soil is dry to prevent root rot. Indoor plants may need watering every 2-3 weeks, while bare-root and potted plants in cooler storage might require even less.
Light and Temperature Conditions
Zonal geraniums thrive in bright, indirect light. If you bring them indoors, place them near a south-facing window or use grow lights to simulate sunlight. Maintain indoor temperatures between 15-18°C (59-64°F) to ensure the plants remain healthy.
Monitoring for Pests and Diseases
Regularly check your geraniums for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. If any pests are found, treat the plants with a mild insecticidal soap. Promptly remove any dead or discolored leaves to prevent disease. Maintaining cleanliness around your plants helps minimize pest risks.
