Mourning Widow Geranium phaeum 'Springtime' (PBR)

Water

The Dusky Cranesbill should be watered regularly, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During active growth in the spring and summer, watering might be necessary once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the soil thoroughly. As a general rule, aim for about one gallon of water per square foot every week during peak growth periods. It's essential to reduce watering frequency during the dormant winter months, supplying just enough water to prevent the soil from completely drying out.

Light

Dusky Cranesbill thrives in partial shade to full sun. The ideal location would provide morning sunlight with protection from intense afternoon rays or dappled shade throughout the day. Avoid deep shade, as this can result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.

Temperature

Dusky Cranesbill is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 65°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 30°F, however, it is crucial to protect it from frost. Ideal growth conditions are achieved within the aforementioned temperature range without significant fluctuations.

Pruning

Prune Dusky Cranesbill to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to encourage bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers regularly can promote further blooming. The best time to carry out substantial pruning is in early spring or after the plant has finished flowering, usually around late summer to early fall. Annual or biennial pruning is typically sufficient.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dusky Cranesbill, commonly known as Geranium phaeum 'Springtime', thrives best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5. The ideal soil mix should consist of garden soil, compost, and peat or leaf mold to retain moisture while providing good aeration. Incorporating perlite or vermiculite can further enhance drainage, key for this plant's health.

Repotting

Dusky Cranesbill should be repotted every 2-3 years to prevent it from becoming root-bound and to replenish its nutrients. When repotting, choose a container that is slightly larger than the previous one to allow for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Dusky Cranesbill prefers an environment with moderate humidity levels. While it adapts to the average household humidity, it flourishes when there's a bit more moisture in the air, avoiding extremes of too dry or too damp conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Dusky Cranesbill in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant Dusky Cranesbill in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium phaeum 'Springtime', commonly known as dusky cranesbill, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring, given moist soil conditions and a suitable temperature range. The seedlings emerge and develop into rosettes of lobed, dark green leaves, with the young plants focusing on establishing a strong root system. As they mature, the plants form bushy clumps and in late spring to early summer, they produce distinctive dusky purple flowers with prominent, dark veins and a white center, attracting pollinators to assist in reproduction. After flowering, seeds develop and are dispersed by wind or wildlife, allowing for colonization of new areas. Perennial in nature, the dusky cranesbill dies back to the ground in autumn after the foliage turns reddish brown, to overwinter as a dormant rootstock. Each spring, the cycle begins anew as the plant regrows from the rootstock, continuing this cycle for many years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• The Geranium phaeum 'Springtime', commonly known as Dusky Cranesbill, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. The best time to propagate through division is either in the spring or the fall. During this process, the gardener should carefully lift the plant out of the ground using a garden fork, ensuring as little damage as possible to the root system. Once lifted, the plant's root ball should be divided into sections, each with several shoots and a healthy portion of roots. These sections can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, and spaced approximately 12 inches (about 30 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. After replanting, the divisions should be watered thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations.