Mel, in the United Kingdom, possibly what you suggest is the right thing to do....for as many plants as hilandel reports she/he has. But, I cant help thinking, the plant must have its growing stage arrested at this time.
The sun is just about at its lowest ebb ...December 21...so any kind of light to promote survival of a plant that has been subjected to such low temperatures, I feel is not going to be helped with the sun's value as it is. I reckon the plant has to be invited to sleep...to rest its weary bones so that it is not pushed to do something it cant. Hil....how you describe the number you have...over a hundred...suggests you should have a greenhouse...a large greenhouse to store that many. They should be, in my opinion, allowed to dry for a time...out of the light...away from all low temperatures and nowhere near warm temperatures that would promote any kind of growth. Then they should be stored in a cool environment...35 to 50 degrees fahrenheit...2 to 10 celsius..where they remain until we want them to renew their growth....and that's in February in your zone 5 when the sun makes a return to light levels more conducive to re-invigorating them. At that time, they would be cut back by 1/3..1/4...as you choose, their roots inspected and all old leaves and any damaged stems or branches is cut back. Then, into fresh, new potting soil, with soil away from the drainage holes, watered to the point of draining, and given the best light available. Normally, a geranium can be brought into the warmth of a home, given as much light as possible....even possibly thinking artificial light, to keep the plant going....it will eventually stop blooming, as long as possible and then even, doing what I suggest above. But....over a hundred plants? Frankly, I think its a crapshoot....you might be damned if you do, damned if you don't. I suggest you think positive.....and Good luck. |
