Keeping Martha Washington geraniums over winter requires some special care to ensure their survival and encourage larger flowers in the following years. Here are some detailed steps to follow:
1. Prepare for winter: As the colder months approach, start preparing your geraniums for winter. This process should ideally begin in late summer or early fall. Trim back any leggy or overgrown stems to promote a more compact growth habit. Remove any dead or diseased leaves and flowers.
2. Choose a suitable location: Find a cool and bright location for your geraniums during the winter. An unheated room, such as a basement or garage, is ideal. The temperature should be around 45-50°F (7-10°C). Ensure the area receives bright, indirect sunlight for a few hours each day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement it with grow lights.
3. Dig up the plants: Before the first frost, carefully dig up your geranium plants from the garden or container. Take care not to damage the roots. Gently shake off excess soil from the roots, but do not rinse them.
4. Prune and inspect: Trim back the foliage to about half its original size. This helps reduce water loss and encourages new growth in the spring. Inspect the plants thoroughly for any signs of pests or diseases. Treat accordingly to prevent any potential problems from spreading indoors.
5. Allow plants to dry: Place the geraniums in a well-ventilated area to dry for a few days. This allows any excess moisture to evaporate and reduces the risk of rot during winter storage.
6. Store in a suitable container: Once the plants have dried, prepare a suitable container for winter storage. Clay pots or plastic containers with drainage holes work well. Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix or peat moss.
7. Plant the geraniums: Gently place the geranium plants in the container, ensuring the roots are covered with soil. Avoid overcrowding the plants, as good air circulation is crucial to prevent diseases. Label each container to keep track of different varieties, if applicable.
8. Water sparingly: Water the geraniums only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to be mindful of the moisture levels. Aim for a balance between keeping the soil slightly moist and not letting it dry out completely.
9. Provide bright light: Place the containers in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. If necessary, supplement with grow lights. Avoid exposing the plants to direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
10. Monitor for pests and diseases: Regularly inspect your geraniums for any signs of pests or diseases. Common pests that may affect overwintering geraniums include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. If detected, treat with appropriate insecticides or organic remedies.
11. Prune and fertilize in spring: As the winter months pass and spring approaches, you can start pruning the geraniums to remove any dead or weak growth. Begin fertilizing the plants with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions. This will help promote healthy growth and larger blooms in the coming season.
By following these detailed steps, you can successfully keep your Martha Washington geraniums over winter and enjoy their beautiful blooms for years to come. Remember to provide bright light, cool temperatures, and water sparingly to ensure their survival and encourage optimal growth.
