Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’

Description

Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ is an exceptional hardy perennial featuring lavender-blue flowers with delicate white veins, perfectly contrasted by deep purple foliage. Because it flowers from May to October, Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ adds long-lasting colour and dramatic texture to borders and mixed plantings. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ thrives beautifully throughout the growing season.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ when soil naturally begins to warm or retains gentle warmth, as this encourages strong early root development and ensures healthier growth before flowering begins.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position with full sun or partial shade, as this promotes vibrant flower colour and helps Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ develop strong, upright stems while maintaining rich purple foliage.
• Soil: Geranium thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Improve compacted or heavy ground with compost or fine grit, which consequently boosts drainage and supports healthy root growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth, giving Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ plenty of space to establish its root system.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance structure and fertility, allowing the plant to settle quickly and grow vigorously.
3. Planting: Position your Geranium so the top of the root ball remains level with the surrounding soil, then gently backfill and firm to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and help moisture reach the roots without pooling.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water moderately, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. This prevents overwatering while supporting long, uninterrupted flowering.
• Dormant Period: Water sparingly and only when the soil becomes noticeably dry, helping to support the plant’s natural growth rhythm.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to encourage fresh foliage and early flower formation, providing a strong start to the season.
• Mid-Summer: Provide a light supplementary feed to maintain vigour and ensure continued  blooming well into autumn.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance, redirecting energy into new flower buds.
• Seasonal Cutting Back: After the main flowering flush, trim stems lightly to refresh the plant and encourage compact regrowth.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds and support soil structure around Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’.

Supporting the Plant

Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ grows to around 40 cm tall and may need light support in exposed areas; however, in sheltered positions it generally remains upright without staking.

Final Tips

Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ is a hardy, vibrant perennial that offers striking foliage and months of beautiful flowers. By choosing a bright, free-draining spot, watering moderately, and feeding occasionally, you will enjoy reliable and impressive garden colour throughout the season. With minimal maintenance, Hocus Pocus becomes a standout feature year after year.

RHS Details

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