Overview
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg is a species of perennial plant that belongs to the Geraniaceae family. It is commonly known as Mountain Geranium and is native to the Western United States, where it grows in rocky soils and pine forests at elevations of up to 10,000 feet.Description
Mountain Geranium is an herbaceous plant that grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. It has a dense, spreading growth habit and produces several stems from a single taproot. The stems are upright and covered in long, soft hairs. The leaves are lobed, with a round to oval shape and a toothed edge. They grow in pairs and are up to 2 inches long. The flowers are star-shaped and have five petals. They are pink to purple in color and are produced in clusters at the ends of the stems. Mountain Geranium blooms from May to August.Uses
Mountain Geranium has a few medicinal uses. Native Americans used it to treat stomach issues, respiratory problems, and headaches. The plant was also used topically as a poultice for minor skin irritations and wounds. Today, Mountain Geranium is sometimes used in herbal remedies for diarrhea, coughs, and menstrual cramps.Cultivation
Mountain Geranium is easy to grow from seed or by division. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sun. It can tolerate drought and is deer resistant. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 4 to 9. Mountain Geranium is an attractive plant for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and woodland gardens. It also makes an excellent ground cover.Light Requirements
The plant Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg typically prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 60 to 75°F (15.5 to 24°C). It is not suited for extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature. Avoid placing the plant near air conditioning or heating vents.
Soil Requirements
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for the plant. Use a potting mix that contains peat, perlite, and vermiculite. Avoid using heavy clay soils that retain moisture, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation methods
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. The plant can tolerate sunny to partially shady locations. It can be propagated through division or stem cuttings.
Watering needs
Watering should be done regularly until the soil is moist. Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg prefers to be watered less during its dormant period, which usually happens in winter. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant responds well to fertilization, especially during its growth periods. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 is recommended. However, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not over-fertilize the plant as it can lead to excessive growth and weakens it.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the plant's shape and controlling its growth. It's advised to remove any damaged or dead leaves and stems regularly. You can also pinch the tips to encourage bushier growth. Pruning should be done in the spring when new growth appears.
Propagation of Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg, commonly known as Purple Clustered Geranium, is a beautiful wildflower that is native to the western United States. This plant can be propagated through various methods, including seed, division, and cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest and most common way to propagate Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant when they are ripe, usually in late summer or early fall. Once collected, the seeds should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place until ready for planting.
To start, sow the seeds in a seed-starting tray filled with well-draining soil mix. The seeds can be scattered across the surface of the soil, but be sure not to bury them too deep. Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist, but not soggy.
Germination typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they should be transplanted to individual pots and grown to maturity.
Propagation by Division
Another method of propagating Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg is through division. This method is best done in early spring when the plant is just beginning to emerge from dormancy.
To divide the plant, dig up the entire clump and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have several healthy stems and a good root system. Replant the sections into individual pots or directly into the garden soil.
Propagation by Cuttings
Lastly, Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is best done in late summer or early fall when the plant is in its vegetative growth phase.
To take cuttings, select healthy stems and snip them off just below a node. Remove all but the top leaves from the cutting, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. Rooting typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg
Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium (Gray) Fosberg is relatively resistant to most diseases and pests. However, certain pests and diseases can affect the plant's health and productivity. It is essential to manage these issues timely and effectively to keep the plant robust.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium is "Leaf Spot." It is a fungal infection that leaves small to large spots on the leaves, reducing the plant's photosynthetic ability. The infected leaves eventually turn yellow, dry, and fall off.
To manage the leaf spot disease, remove the infected leaves and discard them. Do not place them in the compost pile. Avoid watering the plant from above as it can spread the fungus. Fungicides can be used to prevent the spread of the disease, but they are most effective when used as a preventive measure.
Another disease that can affect this plant is the "Root Rot." It is a fungal infection that attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot. The plant becomes weak and stunted, and the leaves turn yellow and wilt.
To manage the Root Rot disease, improve the soil's drainage and water the plant sparingly. Remove the infected plant from the soil and destroy it. Allow the soil to dry out before planting another plant in the same spot.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can attack Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium is the "Aphids." These tiny insects suck sap from the plant, which causes the leaves to yellow and curl. They also secrete honeydew on the leaves, which can cause sooty mold to grow on them.
To manage Aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to blast them off. Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps can also help control aphids. Insecticidal soap can be used to kill aphids, but it must be applied regularly.
The "Spider Mites" can also be a significant problem for Geranium multiflorum Gray var. ovatifolium, especially in hot and dry conditions. These tiny mites suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and develop tiny white spots on the upper surface.
To manage Spider Mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. Introducing beneficial insects such as predatory mites or using insecticidal soap can also help control spider mites.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of pests or diseases is essential for effective management. Early detection and intervention can prevent the spread of pests and diseases and keep the plant healthy and productive.
