As the days shorten and temperatures drop, I, a geranium, receive clear environmental signals. The diminishing light tells my internal biological clock that a period of hardship is approaching. My growth above ground must slow and eventually halt to conserve my vital energy. This is not death; it is a strategic retreat called dormancy. You are not bringing me inside to thrive during the winter, but to provide a sheltered space for me to rest. My goal is merely to survive, preserving my core being—the crown and roots—so that I may burst forth with vigorous growth when the sun returns in spring. Attempting to keep me in active growth under suboptimal indoor conditions will only lead to weak, etiolated stems and stress.
Before the move, I require some preparation. A gentle pruning is beneficial. Please remove any spent flowers and yellowing or dead leaves. This reduces the risk of harboring pests or disease in the close quarters of your home. You can also trim back my longer stems by about one-third to half. This minimizes the leaf surface area through which I lose precious water and creates a more manageable plant for you. However, avoid severe pruning now; that is best done in spring as I break dormancy. Most critically, please inspect me thoroughly for any signs of pests like aphids or spider mites. An infestation unchecked will quickly spread to your other houseplants, causing a major crisis in your indoor ecosystem.
My overwintering needs are specific. I do not desire the warm, dry air of your living room. That environment promotes weak, leggy growth and stresses me. Instead, I need a cool space, ideally with temperatures consistently between 45-55°F (7-13°C). An unheated but frost-free sunroom, garage with a window, or a cool basement is perfect. This cool temperature is key to maintaining my dormant state. Along with coolness, I need the brightest light possible. A south-facing windowsill is ideal. The limited winter sun provides just enough energy to keep my stems from becoming utterly frail without pushing me into full growth. Please water me deeply but infrequently, only when the soil becomes quite dry to the touch. My water needs are minimal while dormant, and soggy soil will quickly cause my roots to rot, which is a primary cause of failure.
As winter wanes and daylight increases, you will notice subtle signs of my reanimation. This is the time to encourage my return to active life. In early spring, please repot me in fresh potting mix, and you can now perform a more vigorous pruning, cutting back leggy growth to a healthy leaf node. Gradually increase watering as you see new growth emerge. Do not immediately place me outside; I need a gradual acclimatization process known as "hardening off." Start by placing me in a sheltered, shady spot for a few hours each day, slowly increasing my exposure to sun and wind over 7-10 days. This prevents shock, allowing my leaves to thicken and adapt to the harsher outdoor conditions, ensuring I am strong and ready for a spectacular summer display.
