Bill Wallis Cranesbill Geranium pyrenaicum 'Bill Wallis'

Water

Hedge Cranesbill prefers consistent moisture, so it's important to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. In general, this might mean watering once a week, depending on climate conditions and soil type. Use lukewarm water and aim for a deep watering, providing about 1-2 gallons per plant each time to encourage deep root growth. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, and in cooler, wetter climates, less often. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage and let the soil slightly dry out between waterings.

Light

Hedge Cranesbill thrives best in full sun to partial shade. A spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade would be ideal, especially in areas with hot summers. Too much shade can result in fewer blooms and leggy growth, while too much direct, intense sun can stress the plant, especially in hotter climates.

Temperature

Hedge Cranesbill is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but performs optimally in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to around -20°F and can handle summer highs up to 90°F. However, extended periods outside of its ideal temperature range may stress the plant and affect its flowering.

Pruning

Hedge Cranesbill can be pruned to shape the plant, remove spent flowers, and encourage a second bloom. Deadheading, or removing faded flowers, should be done regularly throughout the blooming season to promote continued flowering. After the first flush of blooms, cutting the plant back by about half can rejuvenate it and lead to more blooms later on. The best time for this heavier pruning is midsummer, after the initial flowering period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Hedge Geranium (Geranium pyrenaicum 'Bill Wallis') thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as a mix of loam, peat, and sharp sand or perlite. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.8 to 6.3, slightly acidic. Regular mulching can help maintain soil moisture and provide necessary nutrients.

Repotting

Hedge Geraniums do not need frequent repotting and can typically be repotted once every two to three years or when the plant has outgrown its current container. Spring is the best time to repot, to allow the plant to establish in the new soil before the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Hedge Geraniums prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to various household environments. They do not require any special humidity adjustments, making them quite resilient to the typical range found indoors.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Hedge Geranium in bright, indirect light; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.

• Outdoor

  Plant Hedge Geranium in partial shade to full sun; protect from extreme weather.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Geranium pyrenaicum 'Bill Wallis', commonly known as Hedgerow Cranesbill, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in spring, typically in a well-drained, moderately fertile soil. This perennial plant quickly develops a rosette of leaves at the soil surface, followed by elongated stems bearing deeply lobed leaves. Flowering occurs from late spring to early summer, showcasing a profusion of small, violet-blue flowers. After pollination, usually by insects, the plant forms distinctive beak-like seed capsules that aid in seed dispersal. During autumn, the plant may die back as it enters dormancy, especially in colder climates, but it then regrows from the rootstock when favorable conditions return in spring. The cycle continues annually, with the plant capable of also spreading through rhizomes and self-seeding.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Geranium pyrenaicum 'Bill Wallis', commonly known as Bill Wallis Geranium or Pyrenean Cranesbill, is typically propagated through seed. The best time to collect seeds for propagation is late summer to early fall when the seed pods mature and begin to burst open. To propagate by seed, one should sow the seeds directly onto the surface of a well-draining soil mix, lightly pressing them into the medium. The tray or pot should then be placed in a location that receives indirect light and maintains a consistent temperature around 70°F (21°C). Keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged is crucial for germination. Seeds usually germinate within a few weeks, after which seedlings can gradually be acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out in their final position. This method allows gardeners to produce a large number of plants relatively easily and maintain the delightful qualities of this vigorous geranium cultivar.