Buy geranium (cranesbill)
Geraniums are a popular choice for gardeners due to their versatility and appeal. Known for their hand-shaped lobed leaves and five-petaled flowers, these plants bring beauty to any garden. With blooms available in pink, purple, white, or blue, Geraniums can brighten up a space from spring to summer or even autumn. Their ability to thrive in both shady and sunny spots makes them ideal for various garden applications. Curious about how these hardy plants can transform your garden into a delightful haven? Discover why many gardeners are choosing Geraniums as perennial favourites for borders, ground cover, and natural gardens.
What is a hardy Geranium and how is it different?
Geranium, also known as cranesbill, is a popular plant in gardens. The hardy geranium stands out due to its ability to survive cold temperatures, unlike the more delicate garden geranium. These plants are part of the Geraniaceae family and are appreciated for their vibrant colours and varied uses in gardens. Synonyms like border-filling perennial highlight their role in garden borders.
Cranesbill grows naturally across Europe, Asia, and North America. It can be found in many garden settings such as borders, groundcover, and hanging baskets. The plant serves as a natural garden element by attracting bees, bumblebees, and hoverflies, and its rhizomes help prevent erosion.
The name 'cranesbill' comes from the Greek word 'geranos,' which means crane, referring to the fruit's shape. While it doesn't have specific religious meanings, it symbolises health and stability. As a perennial, it thrives in both shade and sun, providing excellent ground cover. For those interested, buying Geranium plugs in the UK is a practical option, as they can serve as flowering weed suppressors in gardens. Whether used in pots, planters, or shaded areas, this plant's lifespan and spreading habits make it a favourite in many natural gardens.
Main features of cranesbills for borders and groundcover
Geranium, commonly known as cranesbill, is a perennial plant known for its robust nature. It exhibits clump-forming and ground-covering growth habits, making it highly suitable for borders and groundcover. The plant is deciduous, losing its leaves in winter before returning in spring. Geraniums spread efficiently, providing excellent coverage in gardens, whether in shaded or sunny spots. Its lifespan is long, flourishing when proper deadheading is practiced.
During its development, geraniums advance from initial sprouts to full maturity, reaching different heights depending on the variety. They can grow as low as 10 cm or rise up to 120 cm, adapting to different garden conditions. This adaptable nature makes the Geranium a versatile garden plant that thrives in both sun and shade.
The flowering season of the geranium spans from May to October, varying greatly by species. Climate, temperature, and care all influence flowering, with well-maintained soil and adequate sunlight aiding in its successful blooming. The vibrant blooms come in a range of colours including pink, purple, lilac, white, and blue, with bicoloured varieties also available. Factors such as soil type and light exposure can influence these hues, adding visual interest to any garden.
Known more for its appearance than fragrance, the geranium does not typically emit a strong scent. However, its foliage can sometimes release a mild aroma. In terms of height, the geranium varies significantly between species, influenced by the type of soil, placement, and care. This hardy geranium adapts well, creating an attractive display regardless of its specific growing conditions.
Geranium leaves are often palmately incised or pinnate with a slightly hairy texture. The fresh green leaves can turn red-purple in autumn in certain varieties, adding seasonal interest. These leaves are important for the plant's ability to withstand various conditions, including drought and shade, making geraniums adaptable in many gardens.
Geraniums are very hardy, thriving in temperatures as low as -40°C, suitable for USDA zones 3 to 5. Their ability to endure harsh winters is influenced by factors such as wind and soil conditions. Planting them in a sheltered spot with well-draining soil can increase their resilience to frost.
Most geraniums are not evergreen and will lose their leaves annually, typical of perennials. This leaf drop can depend on the specific variety, climate, and placement. Despite this, they return robustly each spring, offering reliable garden performance.
The plant is known for its high drought resistance. This is due to its thick leaf structure, sometimes with a waxy surface, and deep root system, which allows it to access water efficiently. Originating from areas with variable conditions, it adapts well to dry, sunny gardens.
Geraniums are non-toxic to children and pets, making them a safe choice for families. Handling them during gardening is safe, posing no danger under normal conditions. This contributes to their popularity in gardens where safety is a priority.
Geraniums are valuable for biodiversity. They bloom from May to October, providing a long season of nectar for pollinators. Their profuse flowering and ground-covering ability help mimic natural habitats, enhancing garden ecosystems. By offering food and shelter, they support a variety of wildlife, contributing to a balanced garden environment.
Best ways to use Geraniums for long flowering displays
Geraniums are a versatile choice for many garden settings. Known for their long-lasting blooms, they bring colour and charm to various spaces in the garden. Here are some of the best ways to incorporate geraniums effectively:
Border: Geraniums can create a beautiful border along pathways or garden edges. Their blooms add a splash of colour and structure, making them an appealing choice for defining garden areas.Groundcover: Hardy geraniums work well as ground cover, spreading across garden beds and filling gaps between other plants. They offer a lush, green carpet that is ideal for reducing weeds and maintaining moisture.Pot and Planter: When planted in pots or planters, geraniums can easily be moved around to suit the sun and shade needs of your garden. This flexibility makes them perfect for patios and balconies.Hanging Basket: Cranesbill geraniums in hanging baskets add height and dimension to any outdoor space. Their trailing nature makes them particularly suited for this purpose, providing cascading blooms.Shaded Garden: Geraniums are excellent for shaded areas where other plants might struggle. Their ability to thrive without direct sunlight makes them a practical choice for creating lush foliage in less sunny spots.Natural Garden: In a natural garden setting, geraniums blend seamlessly with wildflowers and other native plants. Their hardy nature allows them to flourish in less formal, more organic gardens.
Cranesbill geraniums, with their vibrant colours and low-maintenance requirements, are a great addition to any garden. Whether used as a border, groundcover, or in a planter, they offer endless possibilities to enhance the beauty of a garden. With their ability to adapt to various conditions, buying cranesbill is a wise choice for those looking to improve their garden's aesthetic appeal.
Plants that pair well with Geraniums in soft plantings
Geranium can be used in many parts of the garden, such as borders, as ground cover, or in natural gardens. It thrives in both shady and sunny spots. Pairing geranium with other plants creates a beautiful and harmonious garden scene.
Consider planting geraniums with Alchemilla, Salvia, or Nepeta. These combinations bring interesting textures and colours to the garden. Alchemilla with its soft, frothy blooms complements the delicate flowers of geranium. Salvia adds spikes of colour that contrast beautifully with the rounded shape of geranium leaves. Nepeta offers a soft, aromatic addition that attracts pollinators and adds movement to the planting.
The combination of geranium and these plants creates a long-lasting display. Alchemilla's lime green flowers and foliage provide a bright background, making geranium blooms pop. Salvia and Nepeta ensure continuous flowering from spring to autumn. Geranium is versatile and a reliable ground-covering perennial in any border. This pairing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also supports a healthy garden environment.
Soil and light needs for a happy Geranium planting
Geraniums thrive in sunny to semi-shaded areas, requiring 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. These conditions help them bloom beautifully in gardens. When it comes to wind, the garden geranium is resilient, but planting near a fence or hedge can offer extra protection if necessary. The ideal soil for this border-filling perennial is acidic to neutral, with well-drained humus. This allows nutrients to reach the roots efficiently, promoting healthy growth. Regular fertilising and ensuring the soil is well-drained are key steps. Moisture levels in the ground are crucial; overwatering can harm them, so consider how much sun and wind the spot receives as well as soil type. Hardy geraniums prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels to support robust development. Consistent, light watering maintains proper soil moisture without waterlogging. Gardeners often seek cranesbill as a reliable flowering weed suppressor, and buying Geranium plugs in the UK can be a practical solution for easy planting.
How and when to plant hardy Geraniums the right way
Geraniums, also known as cranesbill, are best planted in spring or autumn. Potted geraniums can be planted year-round, except during frost. Those with roots or clumps are ideally planted in spring or autumn. The planting distance for geraniums depends on variety, size, and growth rate. Consulting the plant properties on the Heijnen product page helps determine the number per metre. When planting, prepare the soil well. Use free-draining, humus-rich garden soil. Adding Heijnen planting soil enhances growth. For best results, plant geraniums in sunny to semi-shaded spots, where they receive 4-6 hours of sunlight. After planting, water cranesbill regularly and fertilise periodically for healthy growth. Their high drought and shade resistance make them perfect for various garden conditions. Cranesbill spreads quickly, making it an excellent groundcover or border plant for a perennial garden.
Geranium care: cutting back, dividing and feeding
Geranium, also known as cranesbill, is a popular perennial plant that adds colour to any garden. It blooms from May to October and is known for attracting bees and other pollinators. Proper care ensures a vibrant display of flowers and healthy growth. Below are some essential care tips for maintaining your geraniums.
Soil & Light: Plant in well-drained soil with access to sun or partial shade.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering with sharp secateurs to remove faded blooms and encourage new growth.
Division: Divide plants every few years to maintain vitality and support healthy blooms.
Feeding: Fertilise lightly in early spring to provide nutrients for healthy growth.
Watering: Water when the soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Winter Care: Provide mulch in colder months to protect roots from frost.
Transplanting: Best done in spring or autumn; water well after moving to a new spot.
Buying a cranesbill can be a great addition to your garden, offering both beauty and ecological benefits.
The reliable and pretty charm of garden Geraniums
The Geranium is known for its beautiful flowers and versatile nature. Its flowers come in shades of pink, purple, lilac, white, and blue, adding a vibrant touch to the garden. The plant offers a lovely fragrance that attracts bees, making it a great choice for a bee-friendly garden. The leaves are fresh green, turning red-purple in autumn, adding an extra layer of interest during the colder months.
The Geranium provides excellent ground cover, quickly spreading across borders. It is a hardy geranium, resilient and perfect for shady spots. With its clump-forming nature, it fills spaces efficiently, providing structure and texture. During winter, the leaves may catch the frost, creating an enchanting winter scene.
Geranium quickly covers the ground with colourful flowers as a ground cover . This cranesbill is also appreciated for its low maintenance and long flowering period. Its adaptability makes it suitable for borders, natural gardens, and both sunny and shady areas. As a perennial, it returns year after year, ensuring lasting beauty. The cranesbill is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their garden's charm.
Popular hardy Geraniums grown in UK gardens
Hardy Geraniums, also known as cranesbill, are a favourite choice for UK gardens. These plants thrive in various conditions, providing vibrant groundcover with lush foliage and colourful blooms. With a lifespan that can extend over many years, they are perfect for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options. This guide explores popular varieties, detailing their unique characteristics and care tips, helping gardeners make informed choices.
Geranium × cantabrigiense 'Biokovo' : Known for its delicate white flowers with pink tinges, this variety is ideal for shady borders. It offers blooms from May to October and is excellent for spreading habits, suppressing weeds efficiently.Geranium × magnificum : This variety is appreciated for its vibrant purple flowers and compact growth, perfect for adding a splash of colour during summer months. It enjoys sunny spots and requires minimal deadheading.Geranium 'Brookside' : A popular choice for its long blooming period, featuring bright blue flowers that thrive in both sun and partial shade. It requires little care, making it a favourite for busy gardeners.Geranium 'Rozanne' : Renowned for its award-winning status, this variety blooms from late spring until the first frost. It's perfect for mixed borders and offers excellent groundcover.Geranium 'Patricia' : With bright pink flowers and dark foliage, this variety is a striking addition to any garden. It flourishes in full sun and provides long-lasting blooms.Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei' : This low-growing variety features magenta flowers that are robust and ideal for rock gardens.Geranium sanguineum 'Striatum' : Known for its pale pink flowers with delicate veining, this variety adds elegance to both borders and containers.Geranium macrorrhizum 'Bevan's Variety' : Perfect for shady areas, this variety offers aromatic foliage and pink flowers, making it an effective natural weed suppressor.Geranium cantabrigiense 'Cambridge' : This variety is appreciated for its dense, mat-forming habit and pink blooms, providing year-round interest.Geranium endressii 'Wargrave Pink' : With soft pink flowers, this variety is a classic choice for cottage gardens, thriving in partial shade.Geranium macrorrhizum 'Ingwersen's Variety' : Known for its scented foliage and light pink flowers, it's ideal for covering large areas.Geranium phaeum 'Samobor' : This variety features unique dark markings on its leaves and purple flowers, adding a dramatic look to
shady areas.Geranium 'Johnson's Blue' : A favourite for its sky-blue flowers and ability to thrive in sunny border positions, providing colour throughout summer.Geranium cinereum 'Ballerina' : With its delicate grey-green leaves and pink flowers, this variety is well-suited for alpine gardens.Geranium phaeum 'Album' : Known for its white flowers, this variety is a timeless addition that brightens shady spots.
These popular and versatile Geraniums are available for online purchase at Heijnen, offering gardeners the convenience of enhancing their gardens with these stunning cranesbill varieties.
Pros and cons of using Geraniums in your landscape
Geraniums are a popular choice for a beautiful garden. They add charm with their vibrant colours and easy growth.
Advantages:
Geraniums are highly versatile. They can be used as ground cover, in borders, or in pots, adding beauty to any garden space.
These plants require low maintenance, making them ideal for those who prefer a garden that doesn’t need much attention.
The long flowering period of Geraniums ensures that gardens remain colourful for a significant part of the year.
They attract bees, promoting pollination and supporting the local ecosystem.
Geraniums are strong against weeds, helping to keep gardens tidy by reducing the need for frequent weeding.
Disadvantages:
After flowering, Geranium leaves can discolour if not pruned, which might affect the overall appearance.
Some varieties of Geraniums are short-lived, requiring replacement more often than other perennials.
In some cases, certain types can be invasive, spreading beyond the intended area.
Proper soil preparation, correct placement, and regular care and fertilisation reduce the risk of disease and pests. Ensuring plants are well-maintained promotes the best growth and bloom.
Buy reliable, flowering Geraniums now from Heijnen
Choosing the right Geranium can transform any garden space. Heijnen offers a selection of beautiful Geraniums that are perfect for a variety of garden settings. Whether for borders, as ground cover, or in both shady and sunny spots, these plants shine from May to October. The Geranium's ability to act as a flowering weed suppressor is one of its many highlights. It spreads easily, making it ideal for creating lush, full garden beds. The low maintenance nature of Geraniums means more time to enjoy their blooms and less time spent on care. This hardy perennial also attracts bees, adding life to the garden. Its strong stance against weeds ensures a tidy and thriving landscape. By incorporating cranesbill into the garden, one benefits from long-lasting beauty and resilience. Deadheading tips can further enhance blooming, ensuring vibrant displays season after season. Buy the versatile Geranium (Cranesbill) at Heijnen and enjoy its groundcover beauty across the seasons.