Overview
Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (commonly known as Bicknell's geranium) is a species of flowering plant in the Geraniaceae family. It is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, and can be found in mountainous areas and well-drained soils.
Appearance
Bicknell's geranium is a perennial herb that can grow up to 40 cm in height. It has hairy, glandular leaves that are deeply divided into 5-9 lobes. The flowers are pink or lavender and have 5 petals and 10 stamens. They bloom from May to August, and produce fruits that resemble long beaks.
Uses
Bicknell's geranium has been used for medicinal purposes by various indigenous tribes in North America. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, and has been used to treat wounds, toothaches, and diarrhea.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Bicknell's geranium is also a popular ornamental plant in gardens. It is easy to grow and maintain, and can be used as ground cover or in rock gardens.
Overall, Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii is a versatile and attractive plant that has both medicinal and ornamental uses.Light Requirements
The Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern. plant thrives best in areas with moderate to high amounts of sunlight. It prefers bright, partially-shaded regions that receive about 6 hours of sunlight daily. Direct exposure to the sun for prolonged periods can cause issues like leaf-scorching and reduced growth. Therefore, planting the vegetation in a shaded area or under a canopy is ideal, especially in hot regions.
Temperature Requirements
The Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern. plant can tolerate cold temperatures and grows in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8. However, its optimal temperature range is around 65°F - 70°F (18°C-21°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night. Growth can slow down or stop when grown in areas above 75°F (24°C) or below 32°F (0°C).
Soil Requirements
The Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern. prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist and consistently watered but not waterlogged. The plant can grow in different types of soil, including sandy soil, loam, or clay soils, provided it is loose and well-drained. The soil pH should be between 6.0-7.0. Regular fertilization is necessary to ensure healthy growth and promote blooming.
Cultivation Methods
The Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern., also known as the woodland geranium, is a native plant of North America. It thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shady garden beds or woodland gardens. Plant the geranium in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is also essential to ensure that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. If you're transplanting the plant, make sure to give it plenty of space as it can spread up to three feet wide.
Watering Needs
Adequate watering is essential for the health of this variety of geranium. However, it is crucial not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. Watering once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch, is recommended. If you are uncertain about whether to water the geranium, you can check the soil moisture by sticking your finger approximately an inch deep into the soil. If it feels slightly moist to the touch, it is not yet time to water.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern. should occur in the early spring before new growth appears and then again in late summer. Use an organic fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium but low in nitrogen, as high nitrogen content can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for recommended dosage.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and promote bushier, fuller growth. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period. To deadhead, simply remove the stem below the spent flowers. If the plant becomes too large, it can be trimmed back in the late fall or early spring. Cut back any damaged or diseased foliage as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Propagation of Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern.
Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii (Britt.) Fern is native to North America and is also known as Bicknell's Cranesbill. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and root division.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii. The best time to plant the seeds is during the spring or late summer. It is recommended to store the seeds in a cool and dry place before planting for better germination.
To propagate using seeds, scatter the seeds on top of a moist, well-draining potting mix and then cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, and germination will usually occur within two weeks. After the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Stem Cuttings
Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer, when new growth is present.
Cut a stem of about 3-4 inches in length from the plant, just below a node, with a sharp and clean knife. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in a rooting hormone before planting into a well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and keep the cutting moist. Within a few weeks, the cutting should start showing new growth, indicating that it has successfully rooted.
Root Division
This method involves dividing an established Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii plant into two or more sections. It is best done during the spring or fall, when the plant is dormant.
Carefully dig out the plant and gently remove the soil around the roots. Use a sharp and clean knife to divide the plant into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots. Plant the divided sections into well-draining potting mix or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii is a relatively healthy plant and seldom gets affected by any diseases. However, if the plant is under stress due to unfavorable environmental conditions or poor cultural practices, it may get affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust.
Powdery mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected plant parts, provide proper air circulation, and avoid wetting the leaves while watering. You may use a fungicide if the condition persists.
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as round or irregular brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, provide proper air circulation, and use a fungicide if the condition persists.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that appears as rusty brown spots on the leaves. To manage rust, remove the affected plant parts, provide proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicide if the condition persists.
Pest Management
Geranium nemorale Suksdorf var. bicknellii is relatively pest-resistant. However, like any other plant, it can also get infested by common pests like spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, which causes yellowing and stippling. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with water to dislodge them, use a miticide, and provide proper air circulation to the plant.
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and the stems of the plant. To manage aphids, you can wash the plant with insecticidal soap, use a systemic insecticide, and remove the affected plant parts.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny, white-winged insects that suck the sap from the leaves and excrete sticky honeydew. To manage whiteflies, you can use yellow sticky traps to catch the adults, wash the leaves with water to dislodge the nymphs, and use a systemic insecticide if the condition persists.
