geranium , typically rise from tropic climates , are known to be fair intrepid plants that can support a range of temperatures . However , when it come to extreme cold , such as temperature around 40 degrees Fahrenheit ( 4 degrees Anders Celsius ) and below , geraniums may scramble to survive if left outdoors .

In regions with mild winters , like Los Angeles , where temperature seldom leave out below freezing , it is potential to pull up stakes geranium outside year - rotund . The intermediate low temperatures in Los Angeles during the wintertime months range from the mid-40s to downcast fifty , which light within the tolerance tier of geraniums .

However , it ’s crucial to mark that even though geraniums can wield temperatures down to the 40s , they are not frost - tolerant . Robert Frost pass when temperature drop to 32 degrees Fahrenheit ( 0 degree Celsius ) or below , causing ice crystals to form on plant tissue . Geraniums are extremely susceptible to frost damage , and exposure to freezing temperature can quickly lead to black and dead foliage .

To protect geraniums from freezing temperatures , it is advisable to bring them indoors or provide some phase of wintertime trade protection . If you live in an area with casual cold snaps or rimed Night , you could take several steps to guarantee the survival of the fittest of your geraniums :

1 . Move geraniums indoors : Before the first frost , carefully dig up your geranium from the garden and transplant them into pots . put them in a cheery location indoors , such as a S - confront window , where they can continue to find adequate sun . Remember to acclimate the plants gradually to the scurvy light levels indoors to invalidate stupor .

2 . Provide supplemental lighting : If you do n’t have suitable sunny window , you could use artificial grow light to allow the necessary Light Within for your geranium . place the visible light about 12 - 18 inches above the plant life and keep them on for 12 - 14 hr a daylight to mimic natural daylight .

3 . adapt watering and humidness : Indoor environments tend to be dry than outdoor shape . supervise the moisture levels in the soil and water your geraniums only when the top inch of dirt feels juiceless . ward off overwatering , as it can conduct to rootage rot . Additionally , consider placing a tray fill with water and pebbles near the plant to increase humidity levels .

4 . Maintain right temperature : Geraniums prefer temperatures between 60 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit ( 15 - 24 grade Celsius ) . Keep them aside from drafts or overly warm areas , such as near heating vent or radiators , as these can make stress to the plant .

5 . Prune and curry the plants : take out any damaged or utter foliage to boost sizable growth . you’re able to also snarf back the stems to further bushier and more compact growth . Regular grooming will help your geranium fly high indoors and train them for the eventual return to the garden in saltation .

6 . deliberate overwinter in a coolheaded location : If you have a cool , unheated outer space like a basement or service department that stay above freeze , you may also pick out to winter your geraniums there . Before move them , trim the plant back to about half their size of it , slay any drained leaves , and place them in containers with well - drain soil . Water slenderly during winter dormancy .

7 . Monitor for blighter and disease : Indoor environments can sometimes lead to increased pest problem . on a regular basis audit your geraniums for pests like aphid , wanderer mites , or whitefly . Treat any infestations pronto to prevent harm to the plants .

By taking these precautions and providing the necessary care , you could successfully overwinter your geranium and protect them from the potential harm of 40 - level atmospheric condition and frost . However , it ’s always advisable to monitor local conditions conditions and adjust your plant forethought consequently .

Caroline Bates