Meadow cranesbill Geranium pratense

Water

Meadow cranesbill, commonly known as Geranium pratense, should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring the soil is moistened but not waterlogged. During hot, dry periods, watering frequency should increase to twice a week. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the soil to a depth of about 6 inches; this typically equates to about 1 to 1.5 gallons depending on soil type and weather conditions. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering significantly to prevent the soil from remaining too damp.

Light

Meadow cranesbill thrives in a spot with full sun to partial shade. It prefers to receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight a day but also benefits from some afternoon shade in warmer climates to protect its leaves from scorching. The ideal location would be one where it can bask in the morning sun and then enjoy some relief from the intense midday and afternoon sunlight.

Temperature

Meadow cranesbill is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures. It grows best in areas where the average temperature is between 65°F and 75°F. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30°F and maximum temperatures of about 85°F, although prolonged exposure to extremes can be detrimental to its health.

Pruning

Pruning Meadow cranesbill encourages new growth and a bushier plant. After the first flush of flowers has faded, cut back the plant by half to stimulate a second blooming period. This is typically done in midsummer. Deadheading spent flowers regularly also promotes continuous blooming. Annual pruning should occur in late fall or early spring to remove dead and overgrown stems.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Meadow Cranesbill, commonly known as Geranium pratense, thrives in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 7.2. A good soil mix could be composed of two parts garden compost, one part loam, and one part coarse sand or perlite for drainage. Regular mulching with organic matter can help maintain the ideal soil conditions for this hardy perennial.

Repotting

Meadow Cranesbill should be repotted when it outgrows its current container, which typically is every 2-3 years. Division of the plant during repotting can encourage vigorous growth and prevent overcrowding. Early spring or fall is the best time to repot this plant, taking care to disturb the roots as little as possible.

Humidity & Misting

Meadow Cranesbill is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions to thrive. As a hardy perennial, it adapts well to outdoor ambient humidity and does not have specific humidity requirements for healthy growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, cool temperatures, and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial sun, and well-drained soil; mulch seasonally.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a Meadow Cranesbill (Geranium pratense) begins with seed germination, typically in early spring when soil temperatures rise and moisture is plentiful. The seeds produce small seedlings that establish a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As the plant matures, it develops a strong root system and a flowering stem, with leaves growing along the stems. By late spring to early summer, the Meadow Cranesbill blooms, producing distinctive blue to violet flowers that attract pollinators for fertilization. After pollination, the flowers develop into beak-like seed capsules which, upon ripening, release the seeds for dispersal. The plant then goes through a period of dormancy in winter, only to begin the cycle again the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: Geranium pratense, commonly known as Meadow Cranesbill, can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings, but one of the most popular methods is by division. The best time for division is either in the spring as new growth appears, or in the fall when the plant's growth has slowed down. To propagate by division, gently lift the plant from the ground with a garden fork, being careful to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Then, using your hands or a sharp knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of the roots and several shoots. Replant these divisions immediately, keeping the original soil level consistent, and water them thoroughly. They should be spaced about 12 to 24 inches (approximately 30 to 61 centimeters) apart to ensure ample room for growth.