Plant Description:
Geranium laxum Hanks, commonly known as Spreading Geranium, is a hardy perennial plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It is native to the western coast of North America, ranging from California to Alaska. The plant grows up to a height of 1.5 feet and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide.
General Appearance:
The Spreading Geranium has a low-growing habit with dark green, lobed leaves that are about 4 inches long. The leaves turn a beautiful red hue in the fall. The stems are thin and sprawling, with small, pale pink to lavender flowers that bloom from May through September. The plant is known for its ability to spread quickly through the production of underground rhizomes, making it ideal for use as a ground cover plant.
Common Names:
Aside from Spreading Geranium, the plant Geranium laxum Hanks is also commonly known as Trailing or Wandering Geranium, Lacy or Spotted Geranium, and Pacific or Woodland Geranium.
Uses:
Spreading Geraniums have several practical uses. They are perfect for rock gardens and shady areas where they provide the ground cover that can exceed weeds. The plant is commonly grown as a decorative element in gardens, borders, and containers too. It also has medicinal properties as its leaves can be boiled and used as a digestive aid and wound-healer. Some species of the Geranium family have edible roots that can be cooked. However, it is important to note that geraniums are toxic to some animals and can cause skin irritation in humans, so caution must be exercised in their external use or ingestion.
Light Requirements
The Geranium laxum Hanks plant is adapted to grow in part shade to full sun. It requires a minimum of 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to grow optimally. It can tolerate more shade than sun during hot summer months.
Temperature Requirements
The Geranium laxum Hanks plant requires moderate temperatures to grow. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 60 to 80°F. Temperatures above 90°F can cause plant wilting, and temperatures below 50°F can damage the plant. It is not tolerant to frost and should be protected during colder months.
Soil Requirements
The Geranium laxum Hanks plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can grow in clay, loam, and sand soils as long as the soil is well-drained. The soil must be rich in organic matter and provide nutrients necessary for growth. The plant also requires regular watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
Cultivation of Geranium laxum Hanks
Geranium laxum Hanks, commonly known as bigflower geranium or Sierra wild geranium, is a perennial plant that is native to California in the United States. It is an easy-to-grow plant that prefers full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
The best time to plant Geranium laxum Hanks is in early spring or fall. When planting, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the plant's root ball and gently loosen the roots before planting. Space multiple plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow adequate room for growth.
Watering Needs
Geranium laxum Hanks prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions, so it is important to water regularly. The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently to avoid the roots from becoming waterlogged. During dry weather, water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the soil's moisture.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and flowering, Geranium laxum Hanks requires regular fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 5-10-10 every four to six weeks during the growing season will provide the necessary nutrients for the plant to thrive. Avoid fertilizing in winter or during the plant's dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the overall health of Geranium laxum Hanks, but it can encourage bushier growth and promote more abundant flowering. After the plant has finished flowering, cut back the stems by about one-third to encourage new growth. Additionally, removing any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves or stems will help keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Propagation of Geranium laxum Hanks
There are several methods of propagation for the Geranium laxum Hanks plant. Here are the most common:
Seed Propagation
The Geranium laxum Hanks plant can be propagated by seed. The seeds can be collected in the fall when the seed pods develop and turn brown. Once collected, the seeds can be sown immediately or stored for planting in the spring. For best results, sow the seeds in moist soil and keep them in a warm, sunny location. The seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks. They should be watered regularly and transplanted outdoors once they have developed sufficient roots.
Cutting Propagation
The Geranium laxum Hanks plant can also be propagated by cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the plant in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and cut a section that is four to six inches long. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in moist potting soil and keep it in a warm, sunny location. It should develop roots within four to six weeks and can be transplanted outdoors once it has developed sufficient roots.
Dividing Propagation
The Geranium laxum Hanks plant can also be propagated by dividing clumps. This is best done in the early spring or fall. Dig up the clump of plants and carefully separate the roots into individual plants. Replant the individual plants in prepared soil and water well. Dividing the plant can be a useful way to rejuvenate an established plant and create new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium Laxum Hanks
Geranium laxum Hanks, commonly known as ‘bushy geranium,’ is a hardy plant that grows well in USDA zones 6-10. However, like any other plant, it can fall victim to diseases and pests that can impact its growth, flowering, and overall health. Here we describe some of the common diseases and pests affecting Geranium laxum Hanks and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
The following are some of the common diseases that can affect Geranium laxum Hanks:
Bacterial blight
Bacterial blight is a common disease that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and stem, eventually leading to plant death. It spreads quickly in wet and warm conditions. To manage this disease, start by removing infected plant parts, sterilizing tools and pruning equipment, and practicing good ventilation to keep the plant foliage dry. You can use copper-based fungicides for prevention and control, but it is better to treat the plant before the disease becomes severe.
Fungal leaf spot
This disease is characterized by the appearance of small, dark spots on the leaves of Geranium laxum Hanks, which can cause the leaves to die prematurely. Fungal pathogens can overwinter in debris and soil, so it’s essential to practice good sanitation measures. These include keeping the plant area clean, not leaving debris on the soil, and watering the plant from the base to minimize splashing water and soil-borne diseases. You can also apply copper-based fungicides to help control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Here are some common pests that affect Geranium laxum Hanks:
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry up. You can control spider mites by spraying the affected plant with a strong stream of water. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings or use insecticidal soaps that are effective in controlling this pest.
Slugs and snails
Slugs and snails are attracted to Geranium laxum Hanks and can cause severe damage by consuming the leaves and stem. Some effective slug and snail control methods include using copper tape, setting up traps, and applying slug and snail bait. You can also go for manual control by handpicking them off the plant and disposing of them away from your garden.
By managing diseases and pests promptly, you can help keep your Geranium laxum Hanks plants healthy and vibrant, providing you with the desired results.
