Tips on Seasoning Geraniums
By Julia A. Keirns
(This article was published at ChildrensMall.com in November, 2000 and is currently published at medium.com)
When the end of fall rolls around, and the nights begin to get cold, it is time to start thinking about bringing your geranium plants in. That is, if you have geranium plants. A garage or other type of shed makes a perfect place to season them.
At the first sign of frost, bring the plants in. Geraniums tend to do better if the roots stay bound or contained in a small pot, so you may want to replant them into smaller pots with fresh dirt. Break off all dead blooms, and just leave them sit where they are, protected from the weather. Water them just enough during this time to keep the soil damp. Do not overwater.
Once the weatherman informs you that the temperatures are going to be dropping below freezing and staying there for a while, then it is time to get the plants into the house. They will definitely freeze if left outside in an unheated garage or shed all winter long. Even when brought inside though, they need to be kept in a cooler room, possibly one that is closed off from the heat. This is still quite a bit warmer than a shed and will prevent them from freezing. Make sure they get plenty of light every day. Set them close to a window if possible.
Continue to water them only just enough to keep the soil damp. This allows the plants to go into a semi-dormant state. Watering them too much could hinder this action. Leave the plants alone until the first signs of spring. At this time, you can begin watering them more and feeding them some Miracle Gro Plant Food once a week. Geraniums that have been fed Miracle Gro will generally out produce geraniums that have not, in the amount and quality of blooms they have. This has been my experience anyway.
As soon as the danger of frost is over, take the plants back outside just as they are. Sit them back in a corner or cove area where they will still be somewhat protected from the cold weather and chilly winds for a while. Once warm weather is here to stay, replant the geraniums into larger pots or planter for the summer season, or in the ground if you prefer. Water daily and enjoy your gorgeous geraniums for another year.