Geranium molle L.
Geranium molle L. is a low-growing herbaceous plant that is part of the Geraniaceae family. It is commonly known as Dove's Foot Crane's-Bill, Dove's-Foot Geranium, or Soft Geranium. The plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia, but has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, North America, and South America.
Appearance
Geranium molle L. has a basal rosette of leaves that span about 2-4 cm wide, with the stem of the plant growing up to 5-35 cm long. The round or kidney-shaped leaves have five-seven lobes with toothed margins, and the plant also features pink or purplish flowers between April to October. The fruits are hairy and elongated, about 1-2 cm long holding five seeds in place.
Uses
Geranium molle L. has many uses, including medicinal, culinary, and ornamental purposes. Medicinally, the leaves have been used traditionally to treat diarrhea, hemorrhoids and wounds, against headache and fever. The plant is also known for its astringent, antiseptic, and diuretic properties. On the other hand, young Geranium molle L. leaves are edible with a slightly tart taste and are added to salads for decoration and flavor. Lastly, the plant's soft, delicate flowers and leaves make an attractive choice for border plants, rock gardens, and as a cover for steep embankments.
Light Requirements
The Geranium molle L. plant typically thrives in full sunlight conditions. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures between 18-24°C (64-75°F). However, it can withstand temperatures as low as -3°C (27°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F). It is vital to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
Geranium molle L. prefers well-drained soils composed of clay, loam, and sandy mixtures. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 5.8 and 7.5. It can withstand slightly alkaline conditions. The soil should be kept evenly moistened but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods for Geranium molle L.
Geranium molle L. is a low-growing perennial plant that requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Start by preparing the planting area by removing any weeds and rocks, then add organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
You can propagate Geranium molle L. through seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds in early spring, and keep the soil moist until they germinate. Alternatively, take cuttings in spring or summer and propagate them in well-draining soil in a nursery pot before transplanting them to the garden after they've rooted.
Watering Needs for Geranium molle L.
Geranium molle L. requires moderate watering, particularly during the growing season, which runs from spring to fall. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, ensuring that water drains well and doesn't sit on the soil's surface. During the winter dormancy period, reduce watering to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
Fertilization of Geranium molle L.
Feed Geranium molle L. with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, every two to three weeks during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overfeeding, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms. Alternatively, add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the plant in spring to improve soil fertility.
Pruning Geranium molle L.
Prune Geranium molle L. to encourage bushy growth and prolong the flowering period. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and leaves as soon as possible throughout the growing season. Pinch back the tips of new growth to promote branching and compact growth. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to prevent seed formation and encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Geranium molle L.
Geranium molle L. is a herbaceous, perennial plant that belongs to the Geranium family. This plant can be propagated by various methods which include:
Seed Propagation
The process of seed propagation involves the collection, cleaning, and sowing of seeds to produce new plants. The seeds of Geranium molle L. are small, brown and kidney-shaped. They can be collected by allowing the seed pods to dry and split, and then collecting them. The collected seeds should be cleaned by removing debris and stored in a cool, dry place until planting.
Growing Geranium molle L. from seed requires a well-draining, sterile growing medium such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite. The seeds should be sown in the growing medium and gently pressed into the surface. Water the growing medium carefully to avoid washing away the seeds.
Geranium molle L. seeds require a warm environment to germinate. Therefore, the growing container should be placed in a warm, bright location. After germination, the seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots and grown until they are large enough to plant outside.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves the separation of the roots and stems of an existing plant to produce new plants. Geranium molle L. can be propagated through division during late winter or early spring, just before the start of the growing season.
To divide Geranium molle L., carefully dig up the entire plant and gently shake off the excess soil. The roots and stems can then be separated using a sharp knife or shears. Each division should have several healthy stems and roots. Plant the divided sections in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mixture and water thoroughly.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation involves the collection of stem cuttings from a healthy, mature plant to produce new plants. The best time to take cuttings from Geranium molle L. is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
To take cuttings, select a healthy stem that is at least 10 cm long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone, then plant it in a well-draining growing medium. Provide the cutting with bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist until roots develop.
Once the roots have developed, transplant the new plant to a larger container or outdoors in a sunny location.
Disease Management
Geranium molle L. is susceptible to a range of diseases, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. One common disease is botrytis blight, caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. It can be identified by gray, fuzzy mold on the leaves and stems, which eventually leads to the rotting of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove affected plant material and improve air circulation around the plant. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful in preventing the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Geranium molle L. is bacterial leaf spot, caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. This disease appears as small, angular yellow or brown spots with a water-soaked appearance on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected plant material and avoid overhead irrigation. Copper-based fungicides can also be helpful in managing the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Geranium molle L. can also be affected by a range of pests, including aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that are often found feeding on the underside of leaves. They can be managed by applying an insecticidal soap or oil spray to the affected plant parts. Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can lead to yellow, mottled leaves. They can be managed by improving humidity levels around the plant and applying a miticide spray. Thrips are tiny, winged insects that feed on plant sap and can cause distorted leaves and flowers. They can be managed by applying an insecticidal soap or oil spray.
Overall, maintaining good plant hygiene, proper watering, and adequate spacing between plants can help prevent the occurrence and spread of diseases and pests in Geranium molle L. Regular inspection and monitoring are also important in identifying and managing any issues that may arise.
