Over Wintering Geraniums In A Cold Green House.
Overwinter geraniums in a cold greenhouse in the UK
Overwintering geraniums in a cold greenhouse can be a straightforward process if you adhere to these guidelines:
To begin, if your geraniums are not already potted, make sure to pot them. Then, as we transition into October and November, gradually reduce the amount of water you provide until the compost in their pots is nearly dry.
Next, it’s important to trim the plants back, removing all the soft growth. You can save the material you prune for use as softwood stem cuttings. These geranium cuttings typically root within about 10 days when placed in either compost or water.
Within the confines of your greenhouse, it’s advisable to cover the geranium plants with horticultural fleece. This protective layer serves two purposes: it helps maintain a stable temperature during the day and shields the plants from potential frost damage during the colder nights.
In cases where the weather forecast predicts heavy frost, you may need to temporarily relocate your geraniums indoors for a few days or take measures to heat the greenhouse to safeguard them from frost.
Last but not least, proper ventilation of the greenhouse is crucial. Whenever weather conditions permit, ensure that you ventilate the greenhouse regularly to control moisture and prevent excess dampness. This proactive measure is essential in preventing the proliferation of fungal diseases. Keep a watchful eye on the stems and leaves of your geranium plants for any signs of fungal damage. If you detect any such issues, promptly remove the affected stem or leaf and dispose of it in your household rubbish bin, rather than adding it to your compost heap, as doing so could spread the infection to other plants.
With regards to fungal disease, it can often help to dust your plants with some yellow sulphur powder which helps to stop the spread of fungal diseases
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