Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin - Overview
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin, commonly known as Meadow Cranesbill, is a flowering perennial plant belonging to the Geraniaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in open meadows, woodlands, and wetland habitats.
Appearance
This plant grows up to a height of 2-3 feet and has a spread of 2-3 feet. The leaves are palmately lobed and deeply divided, with toothed edges. The flowers are produced in clusters, with each cluster having 2-4 flowers. The flowers are of a beautiful blue color and bloom in late spring/early summer.
Uses
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin has a long history of medicinal use. The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and tuberculosis. The root of the plant is known to have astringent and antiseptic properties and has been used to treat ulcers and wounds.
In addition to medicinal use, the plant is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Meadow Cranesbill is loved for its attractive blue flowers and low maintenance requirements. The plant attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators to the garden, making it a great addition to any pollinator garden.
Overall, Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin is a beautiful and useful plant that deserves a place in any garden or landscape. It is easy to care for and provides a multitude of uses and benefits.
Light Requirements
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin typically prefers full sun to partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -25°C to as high as 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin grows well in well-draining soils high in organic matter. It can tolerate different soil pH levels but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline conditions.
The plant requires soil with moderate moisture content that is not too dry or too damp. Overly wet soils can lead to root rot, while too dry soils can impair its growth.
Cultivation methods
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin is a perennial plant that prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in almost any soil type but thrives in well-draining soils. When planting, ensure there is enough space for the plant to spread because Geranium pratense var. erianthum can grow up to 24 inches wide. It is essential to mulch the plant to prevent weed growth and retain moisture in the soil.
Watering needs
Water Geranium pratense var. erianthum deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. During prolonged dry spells, increase the frequency of watering. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot, so ensure the soil is well-draining. Avoid watering the leaves of the plant, as this can encourage fungus growth.
Fertilization
Geranium pratense var. erianthum is not a heavy feeder and only requires fertilization once a year during the spring. Use a low nitrogen, high phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer to promote blooming. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to a reduction in flower production.
Pruning
Pruning Geranium pratense var. erianthum is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Cut back the plant to the ground level after the first frost in the fall to prevent the plant from becoming woody. After the first bloom in mid-summer, cut back the plant by a third to promote another round of blooming in the fall. Deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season will encourage the production of new flowers.
Propagation of Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin, commonly known as meadow cranesbill, is a hardy perennial plant that can grow up to 90 cm in height and spread up to 60 cm in width. It produces clusters of blue-violet flowers with pink centers, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers. Like many other plants, Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum can be propagated through different methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum is by seed, which can be sown directly into the ground in early spring. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil that has been amended with organic matter. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 14-21 days. Once the seedlings have reached a height of 5-7 cm, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Division Propagation
Another way to propagate Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum is by division, which entails dividing an established plant into two or more smaller sections. This method is best done in early spring or late summer when the plant is dormant. The plant should be lifted carefully from the ground, and the crown should be separated into sections using a sharp knife or garden spade. Each section should have several healthy shoots and roots. The sections can then be replanted in their permanent location, and should be watered well until they are established.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum can also be done through stem cuttings. This method is best done in late summer or early autumn when the plant has finished flowering. The stem cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth, and should be around 10 cm in length. The lower leaves should be removed, leaving only a few at the top. The cuttings can then be inserted into a well-draining rooting medium, and placed in a warm, bright location. They should be watered regularly, and can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have rooted and started to grow.
Overall, Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through different methods. Gardeners and landscapers can choose the method that works best for their needs and preferences.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin
Geranium pratense L. var. erianthum (DC.) Boivin is a hardy perennial that is resistant to many types of diseases and pests. However, there are a few that can cause problems and should be managed appropriately to ensure the plant's health.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect Geranium pratense is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy any infected plant material, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide sprays may also be used to control the disease.
Bacterial blight is another disease that can affect Geranium pratense. This disease causes water-soaked spots on leaves, which then turn brown and die. To manage bacterial blight, remove any infected leaves or stems and avoid wetting the leaves when watering.
Common Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can affect Geranium pratense. These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
The geranium budworm is another pest that can damage Geranium pratense. These caterpillars feed on the plant's buds, causing them to turn brown and die. To manage geranium budworms, handpick any visible caterpillars and apply a pesticide if necessary.
Overall, proper cultural practices such as providing adequate drainage and avoiding over-fertilization can help prevent disease and pest issues in Geranium pratense. Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pest activity can also help catch and manage issues early on.
