Cambridge Geranium Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Cambridge'

Water

Cambridge geraniums should be watered regularly to maintain moist but not saturated soil. During the growing season, water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could be about once a week. Adjust the frequency based on weather conditions; more often during hot, dry spells and less during periods of rain. Provide about 1 gallon of water per plant per watering session to ensure deep hydration, encouraging the roots to grow deeper into the soil. During winter, reduce watering to every two weeks or less, but do not let the soil become bone dry.

Light

Cambridge geraniums thrive in full sun to partial shade. They prefer a spot that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight a day. If grown indoors, place them near a window with bright, indirect light or in a sunroom where they get plenty of light without direct afternoon sun, which can be too intense.

Temperature

Cambridge geraniums are hardy perennials and can withstand a wide range of temperatures; however, they grow best when daytime temperatures are between 65°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F, making them suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8. Ensure they're protected from extreme cold or frost to prevent damage.

Pruning

Prune Cambridge geraniums in early spring or after they finish blooming to maintain their shape and encourage fresh growth. Cut back the faded flower stems and any dead or overgrown foliage. Periodic deadheading during the blooming season can also promote more flowers. Generally, a light pruning once a year is sufficient for these plants.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Cambridge Geranium should be well-drained, fertile, and loamy, with a pH ranging between 5.8 and 6.2. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat to improve fertility and drainage.

Repotting

Cambridge Geranium typically does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container, to refresh the soil and provide space for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Cambridge Geranium is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but prefers average to slightly moist conditions. It does not require high humidity levels to thrive.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, well-draining soil, water moderately.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Cambridge', commonly known as Cambridge Geranium, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in suitable conditions of moisture and temperature grows into a seedling. The plant then enters a vegetative growth stage, during which it develops a rosette of leaves and a robust root system. Following vegetative growth, it enters the reproductive stage, producing flowers that are pink to purple in color during the late spring and early summer, which attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After successful pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing seeds. The plant can also propagate vegetatively through rhizome extension, creating a dense ground cover over time. During winter, or in response to harsh conditions, the plant may die back to the ground, remaining dormant until conditions improve, at which point it regrows to repeat the life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Cambridge', commonly known as Cambridge geranium, is typically propagated by division, which is best done in either spring or autumn. This popular method involves gently separating the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one shoot and a portion of the root system. Carefully tease apart the root ball and use a sharp knife, if necessary, to cut through tougher roots. The new divisions should be planted immediately at the same depth they were growing previously and watered thoroughly. This technique allows gardeners to quickly expand their Cambridge geranium collection while preserving the health and characteristics of the original plant.