Overview
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber, commonly known as sticky geranium, is a native plant species found in the western parts of North America. Belonging to the Geraniaceae family, it grows in a variety of habitats including alpine meadows, sagebrush steppe, and coniferous forests.
Appearance
The sticky geranium has a unique appearance that makes it easily distinguishable from other geranium species. The plant has a thick, hairy stem that can grow up to 60cm in height. Its leaves are lobed, with a distinct palmate venation pattern. The flowers of the sticky geranium are typically pink or purple in color and are arranged in clusters at the tops of the stems.
Uses
The sticky geranium has been used for a variety of medicinal and culinary purposes. Native American tribes used the plant as a traditional remedy for stomach issues, colds, and as a poultice for cuts and bruises. The plant has also been used in modern times to add flavor to teas and salads. In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, the sticky geranium is also cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance.
Cultivation
The sticky geranium is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and light conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and can handle extended periods of drought once established. The plant can be propagated through seed or cuttings and requires minimal care. In the garden, it can be used to add height and texture to plantings or as a ground cover in meadow-like plantings.
Growth Conditions for Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber
Light: This plant requires considerable sunlight to grow well. It thrives in well-lit areas or a part shade where it receives direct sunlight.
Temperature: Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in a temperature range of 32 to 90°F. However, it prefers cool temperatures between 50 and 70°F.
Soil: This plant requires well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It does well in soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It grows best in soils with a pH between 5.5 to 7.5.
Fertilizer: This plant responds well to fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. Regular use of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season helps to promote optimal growth and flowering.
Water: Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It needs moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot.
Propagation: This species can be propagated by stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, and rooting should occur in a well-draining soil mix. Dividing the plant is best done in the spring or fall when the weather is moderate.
Pruning: Pruning can be done in the flowering season to encourage bushy growth and promote flowering. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage the growth of new blooms.
Pests and Diseases: This plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by bacterial and fungal diseases if the soil is overly moist. Slugs and snails can also damage the leaves and flowers of Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber.
Cultivation Methods
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber, commonly known as Sticky Geranium, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to western North America. It can grow up to a height of 12-24 inches and can spread up to 24-30 inches. It prefers well-drained soil with moderate to low fertility and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.
Watering Needs
Geranium viscosissimum prefers moderate watering and can tolerate drought conditions once established. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. The best way to water this plant is to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Geranium viscosissimum does not require heavy fertilization. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and a low-nitrogen fertilizer in late summer is sufficient for healthy growth. It is best to avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Geranium viscosissimum. However, deadheading spent flowers throughout the growing season will promote continued blooming. In the fall, after the first frost, the top growth can be cut back to the ground or left as it is for winter interest, depending on the gardener's preference.
Propagation of Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber, commonly known as sticky geranium, can be propagated through different methods including division, seed, or stem cuttings. Each method has its specific advantages and disadvantages but they all promote growth of new plants.
Propagation by Division
Division is a relatively easy propagation method for sticky geranium. It involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. This method is best done in early spring or fall after the plant has emerged from dormancy. To successfully propagate by division:
- Choose a healthy mature plant and dig it up carefully, making sure to keep the roots intact.
- Using a sharp knife or garden shears, divide the plant into small sections, each with a few healthy stems and roots.
- Transplant each section into a new pot or garden bed, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
- Place the newly divided plants in a bright location, and keep them consistently moist until new growth appears.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seeds offers a higher genetic diversity and is a cost-effective method to obtain a large number of plants from one parent plant. It is a viable propagation method for sticky geraniums, but requires more patience and effort. To successfully propagate by seed:
- Collect seeds from dry seedpods in late summer or early fall.
- Clean the seeds and prepare small pots with high-quality potting soil.
- Sow the seeds thinly on top of the soil, and then cover with a thin layer of soil.
- Water the pots thoroughly and place them in a sunny location with good ventilation.
- Watch for signs of germination, and gradually increase the watering frequency as the seedlings develop.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is a quick and efficient method to create new plants from the parent plant without waiting for seeds to mature. To successfully propagate by stem cuttings:
- Take cuttings from the parent plant in late spring to early summer when the new growth is still tender.
- The cuttings should have at least two nodes and be around 4 - 6 inches long.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to promote root development.
- Place the cutting in a pot with moistened potting soil and cover with a plastic bag or plastic wrap to retain moisture.
- Keep the pot in a bright, warm location with good ventilation, and mist the soil to keep it moist.
- Roots will develop in a few weeks, then transplant the cuttings to individual pots or garden beds.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber, commonly known as Sticky Geranium, is prone to several diseases and pests that can significantly impact its health and growth. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Sticky Geranium can be attacked by various fungal diseases, such as Rhizoctonia root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. The following are some suggestions to manage these diseases:
- Rhizoctonia root rot: This disease causes wilting, yellowing, and ultimately death of the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. Improve soil aeration by loosening the soil around the root zone. Applying fungicides can also be helpful to manage the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This disease results in a powdery white coating on leaves, which can be identified easily. Improve air circulation around the plant by planting it in a location with good air ventilation. Provide adequate spacing between plants. Applying fungicides or natural remedies like neem oil can help control powdery mildew.
- Leaf spot: This disease causes brown or black spots on leaves, which can ultimately make the leaves fall off. Remove the infected leaves and improve the plant's sanitation. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant. Applying fungicides can restrict the spread of the disease.
Pests
Geranium viscosissimum can also be attacked by various pests, such as spider mites, caterpillars, and aphids. Here are some suggestions to manage these pests:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause significant damage to the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow or bronze. Use a strong jet of water to knock off spider mites from foliage. Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oils to control or prevent their infestation.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew holes through the leaves, which can cause severe damage to the plant. Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides, which can kill beneficial insects. Remove caterpillars from the plant and apply insecticides that are specifically designed for caterpillar control.
- Aphids: These tiny insects can feed on the underside of the leaves, which can cause curling of the leaves. Use a strong jet of water to knock off aphids from foliage. Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oils to control or prevent their infestation.
By following these simple tips for disease and pest management, you can ensure that Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. ssp. nervosum (Rydb.) W.A. Weber remains healthy and vigorous.
