One of the best ways to keep your annuals over winter is by bringing them indoors before the frost hits. If you have a greenhouse or ample window space, this task becomes easier. However, if you have limited windows or no access to a greenhouse, taking cuttings of your annuals and rooting them on your windowsills can be a great alternative.
First, let’s talk about bringing the entire plant indoors. Before the first frost, carefully dig up your annuals, making sure to include as much of the root ball as possible. Gently shake off any excess soil and place the plant in a suitable container with well-draining soil. Water the plant thoroughly and place it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
If you have a greenhouse, make sure the temperature inside remains above freezing. Provide adequate lighting and continue to water the plants as needed. With proper care, many annuals can survive the winter in a greenhouse and be ready to be planted outdoors again in the spring.
For those without a greenhouse or ample window space, taking cuttings is a great option. Start by selecting healthy stems from your annuals. Make sure the stems are not too woody or too young, as they may not root successfully. Using clean and sharp pruners, cut the stems at a 45-degree angle just below a leaf node.
Remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving a few at the top. This will help reduce moisture loss and encourage rooting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder or gel, if desired, to increase the chances of successful rooting.
Next, prepare a small pot or container with a well-draining soil mix. Moisten the soil slightly, making sure it is not waterlogged. Create a hole in the soil using a pencil or your finger, and carefully insert the cutting into the hole, making sure the leafless portion is buried in the soil.
Place the potted cuttings in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the tender cuttings. Mist the cuttings with water to increase humidity and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a small plastic dome to create a mini greenhouse effect.
Check the cuttings regularly for moisture and mist them if the soil feels dry. After a few weeks, you should start to see new growth, indicating that the cuttings have successfully rooted. At this point, you can remove the plastic covering and continue to care for the plants as you would any other houseplant.
It’s worth noting that not all annuals are suitable for rooting from cuttings. Plants like Oxalis, for example, do not root well from cuttings and are better off being grown from bulbs or tubers. However, many common annuals such as petunias, geraniums, and coleus can be easily propagated from cuttings.
Whether you have a greenhouse or limited window space, there are ways to keep your annuals over winter. Bringing the entire plant indoors or taking cuttings and rooting them on your windowsills are both viable options. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy your annuals year after year, even in colder climates.
