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GARDENER'S
READING ROOM
Perennials
Overwintering
Tender Plants, Or — Do as I Say, Not as I Do!
Wait!
I’m
the one who throws plants into the carport (this year it worked!)
or under the flat bed truck (never has worked!). I’m
writing on overwintering fuchsias, geraniums, begonias, and
dahlias? Actually, there are many ways to do it—as long
as you forget the truck route.
With
fuchsias and geraniums, just remember, don’t let them
freeze or dry out. Cut fuchsias back to the rim of the container,
geraniums back by about 1/3, and put them in a cool, dry place—basement,
garage, crawl space . . . Not under the truck! If geraniums
are planted out in your bed, dig up a small root ball and
pot them up. Water every month.
More
fuchsias die from drought than from freezing. Heeling fuchsia
containers into the ground and then mulching can also work.
In late winter or early spring new growth will appear. Then
move them to more light and start watering and fertilizing
regularly. You can also repot now if needed. Place them outside
after danger of frost has passed and the nights start getting
warmer (usually mid-May).
Begonias
can also be kept in their pots. Otherwise, wait until the
leaves have yellowed, then snap the leaves off and dig up
the tubers. Dry the tubers and store them in a paper bag or
cardboard box in a cool (40-45°) place. Replant in about
March when the tubers show bud growth. Give more light at
this time and keep the soil on the moist side. Do not plant
out until all danger of frost has passed.
Dahlia
tubers are usually dug about November 1st. Dig around 1 foot
from the stalk. Divide the clumps with a sharp knife either
now or in the spring; be sure to let the cut surfaces dry
thoroughly before either storing or planting. Store in a cool
dry area—NO FREEZING. Keep in a paper (not plastic!)
bag with dry peat moss or sawdust. Planting time is usually
mid-April through May.
There
are many ways to overwinter, as long as you don’t forget
your dormant friends. Try different ways to find out what
works for you.
By Heather Small
Skylights Autumn 2000, Vol 14, No. 3
Other
articles on perennials
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