Geranium or Cranesbill as it is correctly known is an excellent hardy ground cover plant that is also well suited for container planting.
They also do quite well in a partially shaded site.
As the flowers fade, cut back the flowering stems to just below the foliage to encourage a second flush of flowers.
|
|
Tall growing species may need the support of twiggy sticks, particularly in exposed or shady sites.
Cultivation;
Week 4; Sow seed in trays of seed compost 21°C (70°F)
Germination should take five or six days.
Week 6; When seedlings are large enough to handle prick out 75mm (3”) pots and grow on in a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F)
Week 12; Place in frost free cold frame until planting out time.
Week 18; Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser to boost performance.
Week 27; In late summer, mildew (small white patches on the foliage) can be a problem.
Routine spraying with a recommended systemic fungicide will help.
Week 35; Plant 500mm (18") apart out in fairly dry soils in a sunny site between now and April.
Week 36; Divide established plants between now and April, re-plant immediately.
Established plants can be divided now and replant immediately.
