Geranium ‘Little Charmer’

Description

Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ is a compact perennial admired for its deep magenta-pink flowers and neat mound of vibrant green foliage. Ideal for edging paths or adding colour to the front of a border, it blooms generously from early summer to autumn. Follow this guide to help your Geranium thrive in your garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This encourages strong root development ahead of the flowering season.
• Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn, giving it time to settle before winter dormancy and ensuring vigorous growth the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Geranium grows best in full sun to partial shade. Choose a position that receives several hours of direct light daily for abundant flowering.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging. Incorporate compost or organic matter to improve structure and drainage, helping Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ establish successfully.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. This provides ample space for the roots of Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ to spread.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and support root establishment. Ensure good drainage.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Geranium is relatively drought-tolerant. Water during extended dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly during dormancy, only water when the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage fresh growth and strong flowering.
• Mid-Summer: A light summer feed helps Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ maintain flower production through the season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to prolong flowering and keep Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ looking neat.
• Autumn Pruning: After the final blooms fade, cut the plant back to ground level to prepare it for dormancy and healthy regrowth.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base of Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Add a protective mulch layer in winter to insulate the root system.

Supporting the Plant

• Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ has a compact growth habit and typically requires no staking. However, in windy or exposed locations, light support may be beneficial.

Final Tips

Geranium ‘Little Charmer’ is a reliable, low-maintenance perennial that adds long-lasting colour to borders and pathways. By planting it in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight and following this care routine, this Geranium will reward you with vibrant flowers from early summer to autumn, enhancing your garden with consistent beauty throughout the season.

RHS Details

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