With the arrival of winter, the geraniumsthose colorful and popular ornamental plants, require special care to survive low temperatures and bloom splendidly in spring. According to florist experts, one of the secrets to achieving this is proper pruning of the stems during the cold season.
Before temperatures drop below zero degrees Celsius, it is crucial move geraniums to a protected environment. A garage, unheated porch, or cool room are ideal places to shelter these plants. The optimal temperature to maintain geraniums in winter ranges between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius. Avoid placing them near radiators or direct heat sources, as dry, hot air can damage them.
The importance of pruning
Pruning is an essential technique for preparing geraniums for winter. According to an expert florist, it is advisable cut the stems in half and remove all dry leaves and branches. This process helps the plant conserve energy and prevent disease. Plus, it encourages vigorous, healthy growth in spring. “Cutting the stems in half is a practice that allows geraniums to save resources and be ready for a new flowering cycle,” explains the florist.
Pruning geraniums with the arrival of cold weather
Light and ventilation
Although these plants are dormant during the winter, They need natural light. Place them in a well-lit placebut avoid direct exposure to strong sunlight. Ventilation is also crucial to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth in the potting soil. Make sure the environment where the geraniums are located has good air circulation.
Additional watering and care
During winter, geraniums They require less water than in other seasons. It is enough to water them once every 2-3 weeks, or only when the soil is completely dry. Too much water can cause root rot, especially if the temperature is low and the soil does not dry quickly. Additionally, it is not necessary to fertilize geraniums in winter, since they are not in the active growth phase.
Signs of cold damage
- Leaves turn brown or black
- Stems soften and become watery
- The plant loses its leaves excessively
To avoid this damage, geraniums should be moved to a protected environment before the first frost.
With the arrival of spring and the increase in temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius, it is time to take the geraniums outside again. Thanks to the care and pruning carried out in winter, these plants will be ready to bloom spectacularly, filling gardens and balconies with color and life.
General tips to properly care for geraniums in winter
In addition to all the information already presented, we have some simple and effective tips that can help you take better care of your geraniums until spring.
Periodically check the condition of the geraniums: If you notice yellow or wilted leaves, remove them to prevent disease.
Avoid fertilizing in winter: During this period they do not need additional nutrients because they are not actively growing.
Protect them from cold air currents: drafts can damage them, especially during periods of very low temperatures.
Plant outdoors only after frost has passed: In the spring, when temperatures steadily rise above 10 degrees Celsius, you can take the geraniums outside again.
Source: www.huffingtonpost.es
