- How much frost can noble geraniums tolerate?
- The right winter quarters
- Caring for noble geraniums in winter
The decorative noble geraniums are not hardy, but can live for several years. For their lush abundance of flowers in summer, they need sufficient nutrients, warmth and light, but also a certain cold stimulus in winter.
Noble geraniums need temperatures of at least 8°C in winter
How much frost can noble geraniums tolerate?
In contrast to geraniums (bot. Geranium), noble geraniums or pelargoniums (bot. Pelargonium grandiflorum) do not tolerate frost at all. Therefore, they should not hibernate outside. Even at temperatures close to freezing point, noble geraniums from South Africa can be damaged. Bring the sensitive plants to a suitable winter quarters before the first frosty nights.
The right winter quarters
Noble geraniums must be wintered frost-free, it should not get colder than about 8 °C. Temperatures between 10 °C and 14 °C are ideal. The cool hibernation promotes flowering for the coming year. As in summer, the location should be light to semi-shady in winter. Direct sunlight through a window should be avoided.
Caring for noble geraniums in winter
Noble geraniums do not need much care in winter, but you should pay attention to a few basic things. Water the plants regularly but not too much and don't let the root ball dry out. Take this opportunity to remove wilted leaves and check your noble geraniums for pests.
The essentials in brief:
- not hardy
- possibly cut back in autumn
- winter bright and frost-free at over 8 °C
- suitable winter quarters: heated greenhouse or cool conservatory
- ideal temperature for winter: approx. 10 °C to 14 °C
- cool hibernation promotes the formation of buds and flowers
- regularly check for pests
- Don't let the root ball dry out
tips
Slowly get your noble geraniums used to the outside temperatures again in spring before you put the plants back on the balcony all day.