Cranesbill 'Biokovo' Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Biokovo'

Water

Cambridge geranium (Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Biokovo') prefers to be watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. This is typically once a week, but may vary based on temperature and humidity conditions. When watering, it is important to apply water directly to the soil rather than overhead to prevent leaf diseases. Each plant will require about 16 ounces of water per week during the growing season. During winter, reduce watering to correspond with the plant's reduced growth rate and water needs.

Light

Cambridge geranium thrives in a location with full sun to partial shade exposure. An ideal spot will provide them with at least four to six hours of sunlight each day. Morning sun exposure with afternoon shade is often well-received, as it prevents the delicate leaves from scorching during the hottest part of the day.

Temperature

Cambridge geraniums are hardy and can tolerate a temperature range typically between 40°F and 85°F. They can survive light frosts, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the plant. The ideal temperature range for this geranium is between 65°F and 75°F, where it grows most vigorously.

Pruning

Prune Cambridge geraniums to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers will promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. It is usually sufficient to prune once a year, but additional light pruning can be done throughout the growing season if necessary.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Cambridge geranium, also known as Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Biokovo', thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a pH range of 5.6 to 7.5. A blend of garden soil, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regularly adding organic matter such as compost can also enhance soil fertility and structure, conducive to the plant's growth.

Repotting

The Cambridge geranium should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. However, as a hardy perennial, this plant often spreads through rhizomes in the garden and may not need frequent repotting if planted outdoors, provided it has enough space to grow.

Humidity & Misting

Cambridge geraniums are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do well in the average humidity found in most outdoor environments. There is no specific humidity requirement, but they do prefer well-ventilated areas to prevent issues such as mold and mildew.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil and water when dry.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part sun to shade, in moist, well-draining soil. Mulch around.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Biokovo', commonly known as Cambridge geranium 'Biokovo', begins with seed germination, typically in the spring when temperatures are conducive to growth. Following germination, seedlings establish roots and foliage, developing into young plants with characteristic lobed leaves. As the plants mature, they enter the vegetative stage where they focus on leaf and stem growth to gather sunlight and nutrients. During the late spring to early summer, 'Biokovo' enters its reproductive phase, blooming with pale pink to white flowers that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, containing seeds that can be dispersed to start a new generation. The plant may also spread asexually through rhizome expansion, creating a dense ground cover over time, and it can remain perennial in the landscape for many years with proper care.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Biokovo', commonly known as Cambridge geranium, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate the Cambridge geranium by division is in early spring or fall. To do this, carefully dig up an established plant and gently separate the root clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the root system and some shoots. These sections can then be replanted in well-drained soil, spaced about 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm) apart to allow room for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots. Division helps to rejuvenate older plants while providing new ones for the garden or to share with fellow gardeners.