Introduction
Geraniums are beloved by gardeners worldwide for their colorful blooms and versatility. While they are typically grown as annuals, with proper care, you can easily save and store geraniums to enjoy the following year. Whether you’re preparing for winter or looking to propagate new plants, storing geraniums correctly ensures that these vibrant flowers continue to thrive in your garden season after season. In this article, we’ll cover step-by-step how to save and store geraniums, ensuring a smooth transition from one growing season to the next.
Why Save and Store Geraniums?
Saving and storing geraniums is a great way to preserve your plants and ensure you have healthy specimens the next season. Geraniums are typically grown as annuals in colder climates, but by saving them before the frost hits, you can avoid purchasing new plants each year. Additionally, storing your geraniums allows you to propagate them easily, providing you with a fresh batch of plants without needing to buy seeds or seedlings.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Save and Store Geraniums
- Identify When to Store Geraniums
The best time to store your geraniums is in the fall, just before the first frost of the season. Once the temperatures start dropping and the growing season comes to an end, it’s time to bring your plants indoors for the winter. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as frost can damage your geraniums and make it harder to store them effectively. - Trim and Prune Your Geraniums
Before storing your geraniums, it’s important to trim them back. Begin by cutting off dead or damaged foliage, flowers, and stems. This will help the plant focus on root development rather than maintaining damaged or unnecessary growth. You should leave about 3-4 inches of the plant above the soil. This ensures that the plant has enough structure to support itself during the storage process but isn’t taking up unnecessary space or resources. - Remove the Plant from Its Pot (if necessary)
If your geraniums are planted in containers, gently remove the plant from its pot. Shake off any excess soil from the roots. Be careful not to damage the delicate root system. If you are planning to store your geraniums as whole plants, you can skip this step and proceed to the next one. However, if you plan to store the roots separately or propagate your geraniums, you’ll want to make sure they are free from excess soil and pests. - Choose Your Storage Method: Hanging or Potting
There are two main methods for storing geraniums: hanging the plants upside down or potting them for indoor growth.
- Hanging Method: This is a traditional method for storing geraniums during the offseason. To use this method, you’ll need a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area such as a shed, basement, or garage. Gently shake off any excess soil from the roots and hang the plants upside down in a cool, dry spot. Make sure they are not touching one another to avoid mold or rot.
- Potting Method: If you prefer to keep your geraniums in a pot, you can pot the trimmed plants in fresh soil. Place them in a container that is slightly larger than their root ball to allow for growth. Keep the potted plants in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or a garage. Ideally, the temperature should range between 45-50°F (7-10°C). Ensure the container has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
- Watering During Storage
While storing geraniums, it’s essential to water them sparingly. You don’t want the plants to dry out completely, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Lightly water your stored plants every few weeks to keep the soil slightly moist. For those who are hanging geraniums upside down, you can skip watering entirely, as the plant will use minimal resources during this resting period. - Maintain the Right Temperature and Humidity
When storing geraniums, it’s crucial to keep them in a cool, dry location with proper ventilation. Excess humidity can cause mold or mildew to form, while temperatures that are too warm can stimulate premature growth. The ideal temperature range for storing geraniums is between 45-50°F (7-10°C). If you’re storing them in a basement or garage, make sure the space is free from frost but also not too warm. - Check Regularly for Pests and Mold
Throughout the storage period, make it a habit to check your stored geraniums for pests, mold, or any signs of disease. Geraniums, like any other plant, can attract insects or develop fungal infections if they are kept in overly humid conditions. If you notice pests, carefully remove them with a soft cloth or by rinsing the roots gently. If mold appears, cut away the affected areas and dispose of them immediately to prevent the mold from spreading. - Re-potting and Reviving Your Geraniums
After the winter storage period ends and the weather warms up, it’s time to revive your geraniums. If you stored them in pots, you can begin by moving them into a sunny location. Gradually reintroduce them to sunlight, as they may be sensitive to direct sun exposure after the dark months. If you stored your geraniums by hanging them upside down, check the roots and look for signs of growth. Repot the plants into fresh soil and water them well. Place them in a sunny location and give them time to recover. - Propagation
If you’re looking to propagate your geraniums while storing them, now is a great time to take stem cuttings. Use sterilized pruning shears to take a 4-6 inch cutting from the healthy part of the plant. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a small pot with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location, and mist it regularly to encourage root growth.
Conclusion
Saving and storing geraniums is a simple yet effective way to ensure that your plants thrive year after year. Whether you choose to hang them upside down or repot them for indoor care, the key is to give them the right environment and attention during the offseason. By following these steps, you can protect your geraniums from the harsh winter weather and look forward to another beautiful growing season.
Gardening Tip:
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