Bigroot Geranium Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-ness'

Water

The Bigroot Geranium (Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-ness') should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Generally, aim to provide about one inch of water once a week, but adjust the frequency to account for rainfall and the specific conditions of your garden. During hot or dry weather, you might need to water twice a week, especially if your plant is in well-draining soil or in a container. It’s best to water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow the foliage to dry out during the day to avoid fungal diseases. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it's dry, it's time to water again.

Light

Bigroot Geranium thrives in partial shade to full sun. The ideal location provides morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. In cooler climates, the plant can tolerate and may even appreciate full sun throughout the day. Avoid deep shade as this can lead to poor flowering and lanky growth.

Temperature

The Bigroot Geranium is hardy in a wide range of temperatures and can typically survive winter temperatures down to around 20°F. The ideal growing temperature for this perennial is between 60°F and 75°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering. Summer heat isn't often an issue as long as the plant is not in full sun all day and has sufficient moisture.

Pruning

Prune Bigroot Geranium to maintain plant health and shape, and to remove any dead or damaged foliage. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. You can also prune after flowering to rejuvenate the plant and encourage a second flush of growth. Pruning is typically done once a year but may vary based on plant performance and aesthetic preference.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-ness', commonly known as Bigroot Geranium, should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A blend of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal. The Bigroot Geranium prefers a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.8 to 7.2.

Repotting

Bigroot Geraniums typically do not require frequent repotting and can thrive for several years in the same container. They should be repotted when the plant outgrows its current pot or if the soil is depleted, roughly every 3 to 5 years.

Humidity & Misting

Bigroot Geranium is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does well in typical household humidity levels. It is not necessary to provide extra humidity for this plant, making it quite adaptable to average home environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water moderately.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade with well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA.

Life cycle

Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-ness', commonly known as Balkan Cranesbill, begins its life from a seed, which once germinated, produces a small rosette of leaves. This perennial plant then establishes a strong root system and sends out shoots, leading to a clump-forming habit. As it matures, foliage expands to form a dense ground cover, and the plant enters its flowering stage, where it produces white blooms from late spring to early summer. After pollination, usually by insects, the flowers develop into beaked seed capsules that, when ripe, have a mechanism for seed dispersal. During the fall, the leaves of Balkan Cranesbill may turn reddish-orange, providing autumn interest before the plant enters winter dormancy, where above-ground foliage dies back. With the arrival of spring, new growth emerges from the roots, repeating the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-Ness', commonly known as the Balkan Cranesbill, is frequently propagated through division. The ideal time to divide this plant is in early spring or fall when the weather is cool and the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant, ensuring a good amount of roots are attached to each section. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one growing point or shoot. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new divisions well to help establish the root system. This method is simple, effective and helps to rejuvenate older clumps of the plant, encouraging vigorous growth and flowering.