Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’

Description

Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’ is a charming hardy perennial forming a compact mound of finely cut foliage topped with masses of light-pink saucer-shaped blooms. Because it flowers from June to September, ‘Pink Summer’ brings soft colour and reliable ground cover to borders, rock gardens and low-maintenance planting schemes. Follow this comprehensive guide to help your Geranium thrive beautifully throughout the growing season.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’ when the soil naturally begins to warm or retains gentle warmth, as this encourages strong initial root development and supports vigorous summer growth and flowering.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position with full sun or partial shade, as this allows the plant to develop compact, healthy growth and produce abundant light-pink flowers. Additionally, good light enhances foliage density and overall plant form.
• Soil: Geranium thrives in well-drained soil. Improve heavy or compacted areas with grit or compost, which consequently boosts drainage and helps prevent moisture-related root problems while encouraging steady growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth, giving Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’ ample room to establish its roots.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter into the soil to improve structure and fertility, resulting in better establishment and stronger performance.
3. Planting: Position Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’ so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, then gently backfill and firm to eliminate trapped air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure moisture reaches the roots without creating waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water moderately, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between sessions. Since Geranium prefers free-draining conditions, this prevents over-watering while supporting consistent flowering.
• Dormant Period: Water sparingly and only when the soil becomes very dry, allowing the plant to follow its natural rest cycle without exposing roots to excess moisture.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to promote fresh foliage and a strong start to the flowering period.
• Mid-Summer: A light supplementary feed maintains plant vigour and encourages continued flowering through the later months of the season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers regularly to extend the blooming season and keep your Geranium tidy and productive. Deadheading also redirects energy into forming new buds.
• Seasonal Cutting Back: After flowering slows, trim lightly to refresh the foliage and maintain a compact mound.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil texture around Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’.
• Winter Mulch: A protective mulch helps stabilise the soil and supports long-term root health for the following year.

Supporting the Plant

Growing to around 25 cm tall with a 50 cm spread, Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’ forms a naturally compact mound that typically requires no staking and performs excellently as ground cover.

Final Tips

Geranium sanguineum ‘Pink Summer’ is a hardy, dependable perennial that delivers months of soft pink blooms and finely cut foliage. By planting it in a sunny or lightly shaded, well-drained position, watering moderately and feeding occasionally, you will enjoy a long-lasting display year after year. With minimal care, this Geranium becomes a delightful and enduring feature in any garden.