2-3 Litre Pot
- Position: Full sun, partial shade
- Soil: Moist, well drained
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Flowering Period: Summer – Autumn
- Hardiness: H7
- Eventual Height: 0.1 – 0.5m
- Eventual Spread: 0.1 – 0.5m
Geranium Elke, commonly known as ‘Cranesbill’ is a delightful perennial that captivates gardeners with its vibrant blooms and compact growth habit. The upward-facing flowers are soft lilac-pink or mauve, each petal with a distinctive white edge, and borne during a long flowering season. The blooms, which are approximately 1 inch in diameter, appear profusely from late Spring through early Autumn, providing a long season of colour.
The foliage of this Geranium is equally appealing, consisting of deeply lobed, medium green leaves that form a neat, mounding habit. The foliage often takes on attractive red tints in Autumn, adding seasonal interest to the garden.
This is a versatile and hardy plant that thrives in a range of garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and containers. It prefers well-drained soil and can adapt to full sun or partial shade, making it a flexible choice for various garden designs. This perennial is also known for its resilience and low-maintenance nature, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
With its charming flowers and tidy foliage, Geranium Elke brings a touch of elegance and continuous colour to any garden, enhancing both formal and informal landscapes.
How to care for your Geranium Elke
- Location: Select a site with full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
- Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots and maintain regular watering during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply but less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Soil Requirements: Ensure the soil is well-drained. If the soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Fertilisation: Is not very demanding in terms of fertilisation. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early Spring can promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding.
- Pruning: Trim back the plant in late Autumn or early Spring to remove dead or damaged stems and maintain a tidy appearance. Cutting back the foliage can also encourage fresh growth.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches such as compost, shredded bark, or leaf mould are ideal.
- Cold Protection: In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. It is is hardy, but additional protection can be beneficial in extremely cold winters.
- Dividing: Every few years, divide the plant in early Spring or Autumn to rejuvenate it and prevent overcrowding. This also provides an opportunity to propagate new plants.
- Observation: Regularly check the plant for signs of stress or disease and address any issues promptly.
By following these care guidelines, you can ensure that Geranium Elke remains healthy and vibrant, providing your garden with its charming flowers and lush foliage year after year.
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