Overview of Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum
Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum, also known as Sticky Geranium or Cut-Leaved Geranium, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Geranium family, Geraniaceae. This plant is native to several states in North America, including Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho, and can be found growing in various habitats, from open forests to meadows and stream banks.
General Appearance
The Sticky Geranium plant grows up to 50 cm tall and can spread up to 60 cm in width. Its leaves are deeply divided and have a fern-like structure, with each leaflet having three lobes. The leaves are also sticky and have glandular hairs on the surface, hence its name. The plant produces numerous small, five-petaled, pink to lavender flowers on long peduncles, which appear between June and August. These blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Common Uses
Sticky Geranium has been used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes. The plant was widely used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, and as a remedy for digestive disorders and wounds. The leaves were also used to make a poultice or infusion for external use on skin irritations, cuts, and bruises. Today, the plant is valued for its ornamental purposes and is commonly used in rock gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows.
In addition to its medicinal and ornamental uses, Sticky Geranium is also an important plant for wildlife. It serves as a food source for several species of butterflies and moths, and its seeds are consumed by birds such as finches, juncos, and sparrows.
Conclusion
Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum is a hardy and versatile plant that offers both medicinal and ornamental benefits. Its unique appearance, punctuated by deeply divided sticky leaves and bright pink to lavender flowers, makes it an attractive addition to any garden or landscape. Additionally, its importance to wildlife makes it a valuable component of natural ecosystems.
Growth Conditions for Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren
The Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren is a hardy perennial plant that is native to the western coasts of North America. The plant is known for its beautiful pink-to-purple flowers that bloom from May to August. Below are the typical growing conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
The Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In shaded areas, it may not flower as much as it would in full sun. If you are growing this plant indoors, make sure it is placed near a south-facing window.
Soil Requirements
The Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a good nutrient balance. If the soil is too compacted, it may affect the growth of the plant, so make sure that the soil is aerated regularly, especially if you are growing it in a pot.
Temperature Requirements
The Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 25°F to 85°F. However, it prefers cool to moderate temperatures, around 60°F to 75°F during the day. If the temperature gets too hot, the plant may become stressed, and its growth may be stunted. In colder regions, it may go dormant during winter but will emerge anew in the spring.
By providing the correct growing conditions, your Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren will thrive and produce an abundance of beautiful flowers.
Cultivation Methods
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren is a hardy plant that thrives in well-draining soil. It is mostly grown outdoors and can tolerate different weather conditions, including high altitudes. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is advisable to plant the geraniums in spring when the temperatures have warmed up.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements for Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren depend on the weather conditions and the soil type. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can make the leaves wilt and cause stunted growth. It is also essential to avoid getting water on the leaves as it can promote the spread of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren does not require frequent fertilization. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, which is the spring and summer months. Fertilization should be done sparingly to prevent damaging the roots. It is also essential to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfeeding the plant.
Pruning
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren does not require frequent pruning. However, occasional deadheading of spent blooms can promote new growth and increase flowering. Pruning can also be done to remove any damaged or diseased parts of the plant. It is advisable to use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren is typically propagated through seed or division. Other methods such as cuttings or tissue culture are not commonly used for this species.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors before transplanting. Since the seeds are small and require light to germinate, it is recommended that they be sown on the soil surface and pressed lightly into the soil for good contact. The ideal germination temperature is around 20-25°C.
Seeds can be collected from mature plants and stored in a cool, dry place until ready to sow. It is important to note that seeds from hybrid varieties may not produce the same plants as the parent.
Division Propagation
Division is a reliable method of propagating Geranium viscosissimum var. incisum and is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps, ensuring that each division has a good root system and several shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth as they were before and water well. It is best to avoid dividing plants that are less than three years old, as they may not have developed a good root system yet.
Disease and Pest Management for Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren
Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren, commonly known as sticky geranium, is a perennial plant that is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, certain environmental conditions and insect infestations can cause problems for the plant's growth and health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Geranium viscosissimum is bacterial wilt, which is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing of the leaves, eventually leading to death of the plant. Another disease that can affect Geranium viscosissimum is powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It can be caused by several fungal species.
To manage bacterial wilt, it is essential to sterilize all tools and equipment that come into contact with infected plants. It is also crucial to minimize environmental stress by irrigating the plant correctly and improving drainage. Powdery mildew can be managed by providing proper airflow, avoiding overhead watering, and using fungicides if necessary.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Geranium viscosissimum are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. Spider mites are tiny pests that spin webs and suck sap from leaves. They can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves and eventually lead to defoliation. Whiteflies are small, flying insects that feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop.
Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can be managed by using several strategies, including physical removal, insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and other natural insecticides. It is also important to remove any infested or damaged plant material and maintain good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of pests.
In conclusion, while Geranium viscosissimum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex C.A. Mey. var. incisum (Torr. & Gray) N. Holmgren is relatively disease and pest-resistant, proper disease and pest management is still essential for the plant's health and longevity. By adhering to good cultural practices and using appropriate control measures, growers can maintain healthy and productive plants.
