Geranium care during fall and winter??

Question

I have a several geraniums out on the porch iv'e had since last spring, how do i keep them alive and going through the fall and winter seaons. I live in Houston, Tx. It doesn't get too too cold, and it definately doesn't snow, but is there anything i can do to increase their chances of survival through these sometimes harsh seasons?

Answer 1

Geraniums are not winter hardy, frost will kill them.

They can easily be propagated by tip cuttings, usually during late summer when plants have matured.

Give them a good start while the weather permits. Then move them indoors for the winter.

Answer 2

I always cut mine right back and leave about 2" - 3" from the base. Keep them frost free no need to water them when they are not in bloom. Next spring you will have fresh shoots, re-pot them then.

Answer 3

Bring them under cover in the fall.Keep the soil moist but not sodden.

Ventilate on bright,mild days.

Re pot next spring using new compost and clean pots.

To ensure plants next year,take cuttings any time 'til fall.

Cut a non-flowering shoot 2-3 inches long,just below a leaf joint.Remove the leaves,apart from the top two,also the stipules (The ears,just below the leaf joint).

Dip the cut end into hormone rooting powder,use a pencil to make holes around a 3 inch pot of rooting compost and insert the cuttings firmly.

A 3 inch pot will take 3-4 cuttings and when growth restarts these may be potted individually to grow on.

Keep under the same conditions as the parent plants and you'll have some extra plants.