Don't Let Your Geraniums Become Ontario's Next Ice Sculpture: A Hilarious Guide to Overwintering These Floral Favourites
Ah, geraniums. Those cheerful bursts of colour that brighten up balconies and patios all summer long. But what happens when the frosty fingers of Ontario winter come knocking? Do you resign your geraniums to the compost heap, destined for a chilly floral afterlife? Not a chance, my friend! With a little know-how and perhaps a touch of horticultural heroism, you can transform yourself into a geranium-saving superhero.
 |
| How To Overwinter Geraniums In Ontario |
The Great Indoors: Operation Geranium Getaway
Step 1: The Pre-Hibernation Prep
First things first, identify your geranium as either a zonal (the classic, round-flowered variety) or an ivy geranium (the cascading kind). Both can be overwintered indoors, but zonals are a tad more forgiving of newbie mistakes.
Step 2: Snip, Sip, Repeat
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
Before bringing your geraniums inside, give them a bit of a haircut. Prune away leggy stems and spent flowers – think of it as a geranium makeover for a long winter slumber. You can also reduce the size of the plant by about half, but don't go overboard! We don't want them feeling scalped.
Step 3: Finding the Perfect Pad
Now, for the big move! Choose a bright, but cool location for your geraniums. A sunny windowsill is ideal, but avoid spots with blasting heat vents – geraniums prefer things on the chilly side.
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
Step 4: Watering Wisdom
Don't drown your geraniums during their winter nap! Water them only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Too much moisture can lead to root rot, and that's a party no one wants.
Step 5: Patience is a Virtue (Especially with Leggy Geraniums)
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
 |
Let's face it, geraniums might get a little leggy indoors. Don't despair! Come spring, you can give them another trim and encourage bushier growth. Think of it as their pre-summer glow-up.
Bonus Tip: Laughter is the Best Fertilizer
While you're caring for your geraniums over winter, feel free to chat with them, tell them jokes (they probably won't groan, unlike your significant other). Hey, who knows? Maybe a little laughter will help them thrive come spring.
Remember: Even superheroes need a break. If a geranium doesn't make it, don't beat yourself up. Just dust yourself off and try again next year!
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
FAQ: Geranium Winter Wonderland Edition
How to identify a zonal geranium? Look for those classic, rounded flowers!
How to tell if my geranium needs water? Stick your finger in the soil – if it's dry to the touch past the first inch, it's watering time!
How much light do geraniums need indoors? They love a bright spot, but avoid super hot and sunny locations.
How often should I prune my geraniums indoors? You don't need to go crazy, but a light trim every few weeks to keep them in shape is okay.
How do I revive leggy geraniums in spring? Give them a good haircut and fertilize them – they'll bounce back in no time!
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
