Bloody Cranesbill Geranium sanguineum 'Shepherd's Warning'

Water

The Bloody Cranesbill should be watered deeply but infrequently, promoting strong root growth. The plant prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged; therefore, allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. Typically, watering once a week with approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water is sufficient, adjusting for rainfall and climate conditions. In particularly hot or dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency, but always check the soil moisture first. Over the winter months, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture during dormancy.

Light

The Bloody Cranesbill thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is one where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. If planted in too much shade, the plant might not flower as prolifically. An eastern or western exposure that provides bright morning or afternoon light with some relief from the intense midday sun can also be suitable.

Temperature

Bloody Cranesbill performs best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate a range from frost-hardy at around 20°F to a maximum of around 80°F to 85°F. Extreme heat or prolonged cold spells outside these ranges can harm the plant, but generally, it is quite temperature resilient within these parameters.

Pruning

The Bloody Cranesbill benefits from pruning to promote bushier growth and enhance flowering. Trim back the plant after the first bloom to encourage a second bloom period. Prune the dead foliage in late autumn or early winter. The best time for major pruning is in spring as new growth appears, which typically cleans up winter damage and shapes the plant for the upcoming season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Bloody Cranesbill thrives best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix containing equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand would create an ideal environment. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.8 to 7.0.

Repotting

Bloody Cranesbills typically do not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. However, if the plant becomes root-bound or the soil is exhausted, it can be repotted in the spring or early summer every 3-4 years.

Humidity & Misting

Bloody Cranesbill prefers a moderate humidity level but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity levels typically found outdoors. Indoor environments should not be overly dry; avoiding placement near heating vents will help maintain suitable conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright indirect light, moderate watering, and well-drained soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade to full sun, in moist, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium sanguineum 'Shepherd's Warning', commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill, begins its life as a seed that germinates in the spring when soil temperatures rise and moisture is adequate. Seedlings emerge, initially developing a basal rosette of leaves before the stem elongates. Throughout the spring and summer, the plant enters the vegetative growth stage where it produces lobed, green leaves and stems, gradually forming a mound-like shape. Flowering occurs anywhere from late spring to early summer, showcasing bright magenta-pink flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers develop into distinctive beak-like seed capsules which release seeds when they mature, completing the reproductive cycle. In autumn, the plant often dies back to the ground, entering a period of dormancy over winter, only to regrow from its perennial rootstock the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Geranium sanguineum 'Shepherd's Warning', commonly known as Bloody Cranesbill, is typically propagated by division, which is best done in the spring or autumn. The most popular method involves digging up the plant and gently separating it into smaller clumps by either teasing apart the roots with your hands or using a knife to cut them. Each section should have a good amount of roots and at least a few shoots. After division, the new plants should be immediately replanted in moist, well-drained soil, ensuring that they are set at the same depth they were growing before. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is advantageous because it helps rejuvenate mature plants while also yielding new plants quite easily.