The RHS pelargonium growing guide says to lift or pot up pelargoniums before the first autumn frosts, keep them in a light, airy, frost-free spot, and water sparingly in winter, letting the compost dry between waterings. University of Illinois Extension says to move scented geraniums to a bright location before frost, water as needed, and cut a large plant back first. Neither source gives a winter temperature.
The RHS winter routine
| Step | What the RHS says |
|---|---|
| Before frost | Lift or pot up, using John Innes No. 1 |
| If space is tight | Cut back to 10 cm (4 in) |
| Where | A light, airy, frost-free spot |
| Watering | Sparingly; barely water cut-back plants until spring |
| Feeding | Once a month in autumn and winter, or stop if dried off |
| Spring | Repot in mid-spring into John Innes No. 2 or peat-free multipurpose compost |
Illinois on scented geraniums
Illinois says the plant will not overwinter outdoors in cold climates, to move it to a bright location before frost, to water as needed and to cut a large plant back before bringing it indoors. It gives no temperature ranges, and neither does the RHS beyond frost-free.
What the sources do not cover
There is no winter temperature, light-hour figure or humidity advice for scented geraniums. The RHS routine is for pelargoniums in general. For cuttings as an alternative, see How to Take Scented Geranium Cuttings.
Frequently asked questions
Should I cut back scented geraniums before bringing them in?
The RHS says to cut back to 10 cm if space is tight, and Illinois says to cut a large plant back first.
How much should I water in winter?
The RHS says sparingly, letting the compost dry between waterings, and barely water cut-back plants until spring.
When do I repot?
Mid-spring, according to the RHS.
Sources read for this page
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page gives general guidance and cannot diagnose a plant from a description; see the Disclaimer.
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