Although geraniums (botanical name Pelargoniums) are hardy and low-maintenance plants, they require special care during the winter to ensure they bloom beautifully in summer. With their abundant flowers and vibrant colors, geraniums are popular in homes, starting to bloom as early as February and adding charm to balconies. However, they must hibernate during the cold months, as they cannot withstand frost or snow. Here’s how to protect them through winter.

The trick to overwintering geraniums with the paper bag trick

Preserving Potted Geraniums in Winter

Geraniums are stunning, colorful perennials that enhance gardens, terraces, and balconies. To ensure they flourish in spring, it’s essential to care for them properly during winter. There are several effective methods to overwinter geraniums:

  1. Location Change: Move your geraniums to a cool room (around 10°C) with sufficient light. If possible, bring them indoors and place them on a medium-sized windowsill. Ensure optimal living conditions: each geranium needs uniform light and should be watered every 3 to 4 weeks.

A Simple Wintering Tip

Potted geraniums

Have you considered hibernating your geraniums in a paper bag? This lesser-known method yields surprising results and saves space since it involves removing the plants from their pots. Wrap and secure them in the bag, then place it in a cool room that doesn’t need to be sunny, such as a garage or basement (temperature should be between 5°C and 10°C). Alternatively, you can use a cardboard box. During winter, simply submerge the roots in water occasionally and check for mold.

Note: Make sure to wrap the roots to prevent exposure and drying out.

Overwintering Pelargonium Seedlings

Geranium flowers

As geraniums are subtropical plants that don’t tolerate cold temperatures or frost, you have two options: let them remain dormant or plant seedlings indoors.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Cut the Shoots: In the fall, trim the shoots.
  • Planting: Place each shoot in individual pots where they will take root and bloom in spring.
  • Water Method: Alternatively, place the shoots in a container of water on a warm windowsill, replacing the water weekly. Once the seedlings root, you can transplant them into the ground in early spring for flowering.

By following these guidelines, your geraniums will thrive and reward you with beautiful blooms come spring!

Flower Gardening