Geraniums, also known as Pelargoniums, are commonly grown as annuals in most regions. However, they are actually perennials in Zones 10-11, where the climate is mild enough for them to survive year-round outdoors. In these regions, geraniums can be left in the ground and will continue to grow and bloom for multiple years without needing to be replanted.
For those living in colder climates, where geraniums are not winter hardy, there are a few options to enjoy them as perennials. One option is to bring them indoors for the winter and then replant them outdoors in the spring. This can be done by carefully digging up the geraniums before the first frost and placing them in pots or containers. They should be placed in a bright location indoors, such as a sunny window or under grow lights, and watered as needed. With proper care, they can continue to grow and bloom indoors throughout the winter months.
Another option for overwintering geraniums is to store them dormant. This involves cutting back the plants to about half their size, removing any dead or damaged foliage, and digging up the entire plant, including the roots. The plants can then be stored in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as a basement or garage, where temperatures stay around 45-50°F (7-10°C). It’s important to periodically check on the plants during storage to ensure they are not drying out or becoming too damp. In the spring, the geraniums can be replanted outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
If you prefer to keep your geraniums as indoor plants all year long, they can be grown as houseplants. However, it’s important to note that they require a lot of sunlight to thrive and produce blooms. They should be placed in a south or west-facing window where they can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If natural light is limited, supplemental grow lights can be used to provide the necessary light intensity. Indoor geraniums should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry and fertilized monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
While geraniums are typically grown as annuals in most regions, they are perennial plants in Zones 10-11. They can be overwintered indoors and replanted outdoors in the spring, or they can be grown as houseplants all year long with proper care and adequate sunlight. By understanding the specific needs of geraniums and adapting their care based on your climate, you can enjoy these beautiful plants for many years to come.
