Cranesbill Geranium: Your Guide to Grow and Care for Them

Cranesbill geranium, also known as hardy geranium, is prized for its exquisite blooms, long-lasting beauty, and low maintenance requirements. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to successfully cultivate and nurture these stunning perennials. From selecting the right variety to creating the ideal growing conditions, we will explore every aspect of growing and caring for cranesbill geraniums. Discover expert tips on planting, watering, fertilizing, and pruning, as well as effective pest and disease control strategies.

Types of Cranesbill Geranium

Cranesbill geraniums come in a wide variety of species and cultivars, each with its own unique characteristics and growing requirements. Here are some popular types of cranesbill geraniums you can consider for your garden:

*Geranium ‘Rozanne’*: This award-winning cultivar is known for its large, violet-blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is extremely versatile, making it a great choice for both borders and containers. The ‘Rozanne’ geranium also boasts excellent disease resistance and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.
*Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue’*: With its stunning sky-blue flowers, ‘Johnson’s Blue’ is a classic cranesbill geranium that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. This cultivar blooms from early summer to mid-fall and is a favorite among gardeners for its striking color and ability to attract pollinators.
*Geranium ‘Biokovo’*: ‘Biokovo’ is a compact cranesbill geranium that features delicate white flowers tinged with pink. It is a low-growing variety, making it ideal for ground covers or rock gardens. This cultivar thrives in full sun to partial shade and is known for its excellent tolerance to heat and drought. ‘Biokovo’ also offers beautiful autumn foliage, adding seasonal interest to your garden.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of cranesbill geraniums available. When selecting a variety, consider factors such as bloom color, height, and growth habit to ensure it suits your garden’s aesthetic and growing conditions.

6 Varieties of Hardy (Cranesbill) Geraniums You Can Grow

French Cranesbill (Geranium endressii)

Bloody Cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum)

Clarke’s Geranium (Geranium Clarkei)

‘Johnson’s Blue’ (Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue’)

‘Double Jewel’ (Geranium pratense ‘Double Jewel’)

‘Southcombe Double’ (Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum ‘Southcombe Double’)

Growing Conditions for Cranesbill Geraniums

To ensure the health and vitality of your cranesbill geraniums, it is important to provide them with the right growing conditions. Here’s what you need to know:

Sunlight: Most cranesbill geraniums prefer full sun to partial shade, although some varieties can tolerate more shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from scorching sun.
Soil: Cranesbill geraniums thrive in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. They are not particularly fussy about soil type, but it should be rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
Watering: While cranesbill geraniums are relatively drought-tolerant once established, they still require regular watering, especially during periods of dry weather. Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of your cranesbill geraniums can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time.
Temperature and Hardiness: Cranesbill geraniums are generally hardy perennials that can withstand a range of temperatures. However, the specific hardiness can vary depending on the variety. Check the plant’s hardiness zone before purchasing to ensure it is suitable for your region.

By providing the right growing conditions, you will set your cranesbill geraniums up for success and encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Remember to monitor your plants regularly and make adjustments as needed to ensure their needs are met.

Planting Cranesbill Geranium

Proper planting is crucial for the establishment and long-term health of your cranesbill geraniums. Follow these steps for successful planting:

Timing: The best time to plant cranesbill geraniums is in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. This allows the plants to establish their root systems before the heat of summer.
Preparation: Prepare the planting area by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Spacing: Space your cranesbill geraniums according to their specific growth habit and mature size. Most varieties require a spacing of 12-18 inches between plants to allow for proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots.
Watering: After planting, water your cranesbill geraniums thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate any air pockets around the roots. Keep the soil evenly moist during the first few weeks of establishment.

Remember to consider the specific planting requirements of your chosen cranesbill geranium variety, as some may have unique needs. Providing proper planting care will give your plants a strong start and encourage healthy growth.

Watering and Fertilizing Cranesbill Geranium

Proper watering and fertilization are key to the overall health and vitality of your cranesbill geraniums. Here’s what you need to know:

Watering: While cranesbill geraniums are tolerant of dry conditions, they still require regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. Water deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moistened to the root level. Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can promote disease.
Watering Frequency: The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as weather conditions, soil type, and plant size. As a general rule, water your cranesbill geraniums when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use your finger or a moisture meter to gauge soil moisture levels.
Fertilization: Cranesbill geraniums are not heavy feeders, but they can benefit from periodic fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant blooming. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring when new growth emerges. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and application.
Organic Alternatives: If you prefer to use organic fertilizers, options such as compost, well-rotted manure, or liquid seaweed extract can provide the necessary nutrients for your cranesbill geraniums. Apply organic fertilizers according to package instructions or based on soil test recommendations.
Avoid Overfertilization: Overfertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. It can also cause nutrient imbalances and environmental pollution. Always follow recommended dosage rates and avoid applying fertilizer too close to the plant’s stem.

By providing consistent and appropriate watering and fertilization, you will ensure that your cranesbill geraniums have the necessary resources to thrive and produce stunning blooms.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, cranesbill geraniums offer a diverse range of species and cultivars with unique characteristics and growing requirements. Some popular types include ‘Rozanne,’ ‘Johnson’s Blue,’ and ‘Biokovo,’ each adding their own beauty and charm to gardens. Providing the right growing conditions, proper planting, and thoughtful watering and fertilizing will help these geraniums flourish and grace your garden with their stunning blooms. Whether used as ground covers, border plants, or container specimens, cranesbill geraniums are a delightful addition to any landscape.

Are you interested in adding a rare flower to your garden? Learn more about some of the rarest flowers in our detailed guide. Also, check the benefitis of visiting a lavender farm.