Overwintering Geraniums: The Pot-and-Dormancy Method

Favorite geranium varieties are worth saving. The reliable method: pot them up and induce dormancy.

Step-by-Step

1. Dig before frost, pot in containers
2. Store in cool, airy location (basement, semi-heated garage)
3. Zero water all winter
4. 4 weeks before last frost: water every 3 days until growth appears
5. Harden off: protected porch, 3 hours day 1, double daily for a week
6. Transplant to garden after frost
7. Water and fertilize as new plants

Why This Works

Geraniums naturally cycle through dry-season dormancy. Complete drought triggers survival mode. Potting preserves root structure better than bare-root hanging. Cool storage prevents premature growth.

Alternative: Bare-root hanging upside-down works but risks desiccation. Pot method is more forgiving.