When it comes to giving a splash of color in the spring, summer, and fall, geraniums are among the most sought after blooms. They are a true eye-catcher wherever they bloom because to their tall stalks, lush greenery, and densely packed petals. And boy, do they sprout up quickly!
Hardy geraniums and non-hardy geraniums are two different types. However, they are both perennials. In hardiness zones 3–8, hardy perennial geraniums can thrive outside all year long without any special care.
The non-hardy geraniums (Pelargonium hybrids) are the focus of today’s article. They are the most widely planted variety in pots, baskets, and flowerbeds.
These geraniums are also the ones that are frequently neglected as the growing season ends. But, as you’ll see below, it’s easy to keep non-hardy geraniums alive with just a little extra work.
So, here are some tips on how to save your geraniums and save a little money on your gardening budget for next year.
How to Save Geraniums Over Winter?
1. Avoiding a Crisis by Acting Now
The procedure of overwintering and saving non-hardy geraniums is remarkably similar to that of saving ferns. Similarly to rescuing ferns, the first step to protecting your geraniums from a hard frost or freeze is to take preventative measures as early as possible.
To begin, know that geraniums that aren’t hardy are highly vulnerable to frost. Water is abundant in the plants’ tissues, from the roots to the leaves and flowers. If that water freezes, it can mean the end of the line very quickly.
You should bring your geraniums inside before frost is forecast so they can survive. The sooner you do it, the less chance there is of damaging the plant’s roots and stems.
