Geranium selinum Andrews
Geranium selinum Andrews, commonly known as the Burnet-leaved Cranesbill, is a flowering perennial plant that is native to Europe and western Asia.
Appearance
The plant grows up to a height of 60 cm and has a dense cluster of small, pale pink flowers on top of a leafy stem. The flowers bloom from May to June and have five petals each. The leaves are deeply lobed and are similar in appearance to those of the Burnet plant.
Uses
The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The leaves and roots of the plant have been used to treat a wide range of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach ulcers. The plant has also been used as a natural insect repellent.
Geranium selinum is also a popular garden plant and is often grown for its attractive flowers and foliage. It is easy to grow in most soils and can tolerate a range of temperatures, making it a popular choice for gardeners worldwide.
Light Requirements
Geranium selinum Andrews prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. When grown in a shady place, the plant tends to have less vigor and flowering. Therefore, it is best to plant it in well-drained soil in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can adapt to different temperature ranges. It is suitable for regions with a moderate climate and has been known to grow in areas with temperatures ranging from 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Geranium selinum Andrews can withstand occasional low temperatures and frost, making it a perfect plant for gardens in cool temperate regions.
Soil Requirements
Geranium selinum Andrews prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of about 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter with a good mix of sand and clay. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it requires consistent moisture. Therefore, it is best to avoid soils with poor drainage or compact, heavy soils that tend to retain more water than needed.
Cultivation Methods
Geranium selinum Andrews, commonly known as the mountain geranium, is a hardy plant that grows well in various conditions. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic. The plant can be propagated through seed or division.
Watering Needs
Geranium selinum Andrews prefers moist but well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and ensure the soil doesn't become waterlogged as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during its growing season and reduce watering during winter.
Fertilization
Geranium selinum Andrews doesn't require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth instead of blooming.
Pruning
Geranium selinum Andrews doesn't need heavy pruning, but it benefits from light trimming to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased leaves. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the growing season's onset. Cut back the plant to its basal leaves or to a healthy bud to encourage bushier growth and blooming.
Propagation of Geranium selinum Andrews
Geranium selinum Andrews, commonly known as Wild Geranium or Hedge Geranium, is a hardy perennial plant that blooms in late spring to early summer, producing pink to purplish flowers and aromatic foliage. Propagating this plant can be done via two primary methods: division and seed.
Propagation by Division
Dividing Geranium selinum Andrews is the easiest and most effective way to propagate the plant. It is best to do this during the fall or early spring, before or after the blooming period. Here's how:
- Carefully dig up the plant and its roots using a garden fork or shovel.
- Use a sharp, clean knife, and cut the root crown into sections, making sure each section has a healthy amount of roots and leaves.
- Replant each section in a pot or garden bed with well-draining soil and water regularly.
- Keep the new plants shaded for a week or two, until they show signs of new growth.
Propagation by Seed
While division is the most common method of propagation for Geranium selinum Andrews, it is also possible to grow the plant from seed. Here's how:
- Collect seeds during the blooming season and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them.
- Fill small pots or trays with a mixture of soil and sand or perlite. Geranium selinum Andrews prefers well-draining soil.
- Moisten the soil lightly before sowing the seeds. Scatter the seeds thinly on top of the soil, and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil.
- Place the pots or trays in a warm, bright spot, such as a windowsill or heated greenhouse, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- The germination period for Geranium selinum Andrews seeds is usually two to four weeks. When the seedlings have grown their first set of true leaves, transplant them to larger pots or the garden bed.
Both propagation methods are easy to execute and relatively foolproof, producing healthy new plants that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Geranium selinum Andrews: Disease Management
Geranium selinum Andrews, also known as Meadow Cranesbill, is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, there are some common diseases that might affect it. These include:
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that leaves a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be prevented by ensuring that there is good air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant material.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that causes rust-colored spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be prevented by removing infected plant material and avoiding overhead watering.
- Botrytis blight: Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that causes the leaves and flower buds to rot. It can be prevented by ensuring that there is good air circulation around the plant, removing infected plant material, and avoiding overhead watering.
If these diseases do affect the plant, it is recommended to use appropriate fungicides, as well as following cultural control measures mentioned above.
Geranium selinum Andrews: Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Geranium selinum Andrews can also attract a variety of pests. Some of the common pests that might attack the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, which can cause deformities and stunt growth. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions. They can be identified by yellow spots on leaves or webbing. They can be prevented or controlled by increasing the humidity around the plant or using miticides.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can be a problem, especially in wet and humid conditions, as they feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled by using slug baits or handpicking them off the plant.
It is important to keep a close eye on the plant and regularly inspect it for pests. Should a pest infestation occur, it is recommended to use appropriate pesticides, as well as cultural control measures mentioned above.
