Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir White’

Description

Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir White’ is an elegant, spreading perennial known for its finely cut foliage and large white saucer-shaped flowers veined with pale lilac-pink. With a height and spread of around 45 cm and a long flowering season from June to September, this Geranium brings graceful beauty and reliability to borders, cottage gardens, wildlife-friendly spaces, and mixed perennial beds. Follow this guide to help your plant thrive year after year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant when the soil begins to naturally warm or still holds gentle residual warmth. These conditions encourage strong early root establishment and help Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir White’ prepare for its extended summer flowering period.

Site Selection

Sunlight: Choose a location in full sun or partial shade. Consistent light helps the blooms of your Geranium remain bright, well-shaped, and long-lasting.

Soil: Geranium prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Avoid compacted or overly wet ground. Add organic matter or fine grit where necessary to increase drainage and improve overall soil structure.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth, providing ample room to settle and spread its roots.
2. Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage, creating an ideal environment for healthy growth.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming lightly to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water well after planting to settle the soil around the roots of your Geranium, ensuring the plant receives even moisture as it establishes.

Watering Requirements

Growing Season: Water moderately, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Geranium appreciates moisture but thrives best in free-draining conditions.

Dormant Period: During dormancy, reduce watering significantly. Supply moisture only when the soil becomes particularly dry, supporting the plant’s natural rest cycle.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to encourage robust new growth and enhance early-season development.
• Mid-Summer: A light supplementary feed helps Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir White’ maintain vigour and prolong its flowering display through the warmest months.

Pruning

Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. This keeps your Geranium tidy and directs energy into producing fresh new blooms.

Seasonal Cutting Back: Once flowering has finished, lightly trim back the foliage to maintain shape and stimulate clean, bushy growth.

Mulching

Spring Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and support soil health around Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir White’.

Winter Mulch: A protective mulch helps insulate the root zone from colder conditions, supporting long-term plant resilience.

Supporting the Plant

With its spreading habit and moderate height, Geranium rarely needs staking. Its natural growth form makes it ideal for soft, flowing planting schemes.

Final Tips

Geranium clarkei ‘Kashmir White’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that rewards gardeners with months of delicate, veined white blooms. Plant it in a bright, well-drained spot, water moderately, and feed sparingly to enjoy a graceful, long-lasting display each year. With the right care, your Geranium will flourish beautifully in a wide range of garden settings.

 

RHS Details 

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