Geranium alchemilloides L.
Geranium alchemilloides L. is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. It is native to Europe and North Africa, and it can be found growing in a variety of habitats such as grasslands, forests, and rocky mountain slopes.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Sticky Cranesbill due to its sticky, glandular hairs on the stems and leaves. Other common names include Small-flowered Crane's-bill, Alpine Crane's-bill, and Alchemilla-flowered Crane's-bill.
Uses
Geranium alchemilloides L. has been traditionally used in folk medicine to treat diarrhea, cough, and various skin conditions. It is also used as a herbal remedy for women's health, particularly for menstrual and menopausal symptoms.
Aside from its medicinal properties, Geranium alchemilloides L. is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive pink-purple flowers and its ability to attract bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Geranium alchemilloides L. has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 30 cm tall. Its leaves are palmately lobed and have a deep green color. The flowers have five petals that are a bright pink-purple color and are approximately 1 cm in diameter. The plant blooms from June until August.
Overall, Geranium alchemilloides L. is a hardy and versatile plant that offers both medicinal and ornamental value.
Light Requirements
The Geranium alchemilloides L. plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Lack of sunlight may cause poor growth and blooming.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can be grown in a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives best in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and 50-60°F (10-15°C) during the night. High temperatures may cause wilting of the leaves and flowers while frost may lead to plant death.
Soil Requirements
The Geranium alchemilloides L. plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is suitable for optimal growth. This plant can also grow in a slightly alkaline soil, making it tolerant to different soil conditions. However, poorly drained soil may lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Geranium alchemilloides L.
Geranium alchemilloides L. can be grown in containers as well as in garden beds. The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil and requires full sunlight to grow and bloom properly. If grown in containers, make sure that the container has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Needs of Geranium alchemilloides L.
The plant needs regular watering during the growing season. Water the plants whenever the top layer of soil feels dry to touch. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other problems. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant goes into dormancy.
Fertilization of Geranium alchemilloides L.
Geranium alchemilloides L. requires a well-balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. You can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and feed the plant with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks to maintain consistent growth and blooms.
Pruning of Geranium alchemilloides L.
To maintain the shape and size of Geranium alchemilloides L. you can prune the plant after it finishes flowering. Remove the spent blooms and trim back any leggy stems or dead foliage. Pruning the plant will encourage new growth and promote bushier growth habit.
Propagation of Geranium alchemilloides L.
Geranium alchemilloides L., commonly known as Alchemilla-leaved geranium, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Geraniaceae. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods:
Seed Propagation
Geranium alchemilloides can be propagated through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant after flowering or purchased from a reliable supplier. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring. Seeds can be sown directly on the ground or in containers that will later be transplanted to the garden. Before sowing, the soil should be prepared by removing weeds and adding compost or other organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 3mm and spaced 25cm apart. Germination can take up to three weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted after they have developed their second set of leaves.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is another method that can be used to propagate Geranium alchemilloides. This method is best done in the spring or early fall. The plant should be lifted gently from the ground and the clump divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and several stems. The new plants should be replanted in the garden immediately at a spacing of 25cm apart. Watering should be done regularly to help the plants establish themselves.
Root Cuttings Propagation
Root cuttings can also be used to propagate Geranium alchemilloides. The best time to take root cuttings is in the late summer or early fall. Select an area with healthy roots and cut off sections that are about 5cm long. The cuttings should be planted in a prepared bed of soil mix, covered with a thin layer of sand, and kept moist. In about six to eight weeks, new plants will develop and can be transplanted.
Propagation of Geranium alchemilloides L. can be done through seeds, division, and root cuttings. A proper understanding of the methods will help in choosing the best propagation method that suits an individual's situation and preferences.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium alchemilloides L.
Geranium alchemilloides L. is generally considered a low-maintenance and disease-resistant plant. However, it may still be affected by some common diseases and pests. Here are some disease and pest management tips for this plant:
Common Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant material and avoid watering the plant from above.
Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease causes gray mold on the plant and can lead to wilting and death. To manage, prune affected plant material and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Rust: This fungal disease causes orange-brown spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage, remove and destroy infected plant material and avoid watering the plant from above.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distortion of leaves and stunted growth. To manage, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of leaves and can lead to yellowing of the foliage. To manage, spray the plant with water to dislodge the mites, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like spider mite predators or predatory mites.
Slugs and Snails: These pests feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, leaving behind holes and slime trails. To manage, remove any hiding places like rocks or debris, handpick the pests, or use a slug and snail bait.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Geranium alchemilloides L. plant healthy and thriving.
