Expert: Mike Mascio - 10/18/2007

Question
I have a gorgeous geranium which I would like to keep for next spring.  I have been told two different things:  To take cuttings from it before the frost kills it; OR to put it into my garage for the winter, and it should survive until next spring.  Which would you vote for?  This is a geranium with an unusual combination of pink and magenta, and I've never seen one like it.  I want to hold onto it if at all possible. I live in zone 7b.  Thanks

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

Although hanging them 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