Geraniums, also known as Pelargonium hybrids, are a popular choice for container gardening. Many gardeners wonder if geraniums in pots come back every year, and the answer to this question depends on several factors.
1. Climate: Geraniums are typically grown as annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one year. However, in mild climates where the temperatures do not dip below freezing, geraniums can come back year after year. In zones 10-11, where the climate is suitable, geraniums can be treated as perennial plants and continue to bloom outdoors all year long.
2. Frost Tolerance: Geraniums are sensitive to frost. If exposed to the first hard frost of the season, they will likely die. Therefore, in regions with colder winters, geraniums are not likely to come back year after year if left outdoors. It’s important to bring potted geraniums indoors before the first frost or provide them with protection, such as moving them to a sheltered location or covering them with frost blankets.
3. Overwintering: If you want to keep geraniums in pots and have them come back year after year, you can try overwintering them indoors. Before the first frost, prune back the geraniums by about one-third to half of their height. Then, dig up the plants carefully, ensuring you don’t damage the roots. Shake off excess soil and place the geraniums in pots with fresh potting soil. Trim any broken or damaged roots before potting them up.
4. Indoor Care: Once indoors, place the potted geraniums in a cool and bright location, such as a sunny window. Water the plants sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Geraniums prefer slightly drier conditions during the winter months. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
5. Dormancy: During the winter, geraniums may enter a period of dormancy. The plants may lose some leaves or appear less vibrant, which is a natural response to lower light levels and cooler temperatures. However, with proper care, they should stay alive and begin to show signs of new growth as spring approaches.
6. Spring Maintenance: As the weather warms up and the threat of frost has passed, you can gradually acclimate your overwintered geraniums to outdoor conditions. Start by moving them to a sheltered location outside for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their time outdoors over a week or two. This process will help them adjust to the change in light and temperature.
7. Planting Outdoors: Once all danger of frost has passed, you can plant your overwintered geraniums back into the garden or repot them into larger containers. Ensure they receive adequate sunlight and regular watering throughout the growing season. Fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
It’s important to note that while it is possible to overwinter geraniums in pots and have them come back year after year, it may not always be successful. Factors such as the health of the plant, the conditions it was exposed to during the winter, and individual plant variability can influence its ability to survive and thrive after overwintering.
In my personal experience, I have successfully overwintered geraniums in pots by following the steps mentioned above. However, I have also had instances where the plants did not survive despite my best efforts. It’s always worth a try, especially if you have a favorite geranium variety or want to save money on buying new plants each year, but be prepared for the possibility that not all geraniums will come back after overwintering.
Geraniums in pots can come back every year if the climate is mild enough for them to bloom outdoors all year long. In colder regions, they need to be protected from frost or brought indoors to overwinter. With proper care and attention, overwintered geraniums can survive and thrive, providing beautiful blooms year after year.
