Expert: Mike Mascio - 6/1/2008

Question
Hi, I have just planted some brilliant pink geraniums in our front landscaping and would like to know if I can dig them up in the fall and care for them through the winter and be successful in re-planting them next spring?

Answer
Joni, since you favor this particular variety, it's worth overwintering them indoors.  

Although digging them and hanging them barerooted and upside-down is one option, I always transplant geraniums into pots and allow them to go dormant for the winter. Simply place them in an airy location that is kept relatively cool. A basement or semi-heated garage works fine.  

Do not water them through the winter months. About 4 weeks prior to your last frost, begin watering them every three days until new growth appears.

Once your last frost date has passed, you need to harden the plants off by gradually acclimating them again to the outdoors.  Start by placing them on a protected porch, out of direct sunlight, for three hours the first day. Double this for about one week until they are out 24 hours. You can then transplant them back in the garden.  Water and fertilize as you would with new plants.  

Thanks for writing, and good luck.  

Regards,  

Mike