The decorative geraniums are not hardy, but can live for several years. For their lush abundance of flowers in summer, they need sufficient nutrients, warmth and light, but also a certain cold stimulus in winter.
How do I properly overwinter noble geraniums?
In order for noble geraniums to overwinter successfully, they should be moved to a bright, frost-free winter quarters (10-14 °C) and watered regularly but sparingly. The cool overwintering promotes the formation of buds and flowers.
How much frost can geraniums tolerate?
Noble geraniums or pelargoniums (bot. Pelargonium grandiflorum), unlike geraniums (bot. Geranium), do not tolerate frost at all. Therefore they should not overwinter outside. Even at temperatures close to freezing point, the noble geraniums from South Africa can be damaged. Bring the sensitive plants to suitable winter quarters before the first frosty nights.
The right winter quarters
Noble geraniums definitely have to overwinter frost-free; it should not get colder than around 8 °C. Temperatures between 10 °C and 14 °C are ideal. The cool wintering promotes flower production for the coming year. As in summer, the location should be light to partially shaded in winter. It is better to avoid direct sunlight through a window.
Care for geraniums in winter
Noble geraniums don't need a lot of care in winter, but you should pay attention to a few basic things. Water the plants regularly, but not too much and do not let the root ball dry out. Take this opportunity to remove wilted leaves and check your geraniums for pests.
The most important things in brief:
- not hardy
- possibly cut back in autumn
- Winter bright and frost-free, at over 8 °C
- Suitable winter quarters: heated greenhouse or cool winter garden
- ideal temperature for wintering: approx. 10 °C to 14 °C
- cool overwintering promotes bud formation and flowering
- check regularly for pests
- Don’t let the root ball dry out
Tip
Slowly get your geraniums used to the outside temperatures again in spring before putting the plants back on the balcony all day.
