Geranium pratense ‘Laura’

Description

Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ is a graceful hardy perennial known for its delicate double pure-white flowers held elegantly above finely cut mid-green foliage. Because it flowers from June to September, Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ brings brightness and refined texture to borders, cottage gardens and mixed perennial schemes.PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ when the soil naturally begins to warm or retains gentle warmth, since this encourages strong early root development and ensures the plant is well-established before its summer flowering season begins.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position with full sun or partial shade, as this ensures your Geranium develops sturdy stems and produces its pure-white flowers in abundance. Adequate light also helps maintain healthy, finely cut foliage throughout the season.
• Soil: Geranium thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Improving heavy or compacted soil with compost or grit enhances drainage and structure, consequently supporting strong root health and better flowering performance.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth, giving Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ sufficient space to develop a robust root system.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the excavated soil to improve fertility and aeration, which results in healthier establishment.
3. Planting: Position Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface, then gently backfill and firm to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure moisture reaches the roots evenly without causing waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water moderately, always allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. This prevents over-watering and supports ongoing flower production.
• Dormant Period: Water sparingly and only when the soil becomes noticeably dry, allowing the plant’s natural rest cycle to continue without excess moisture.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to encourage fresh growth and strong early flowering, giving your Geranium an excellent start to the season.
• Mid-Summer: Provide a light supplementary feed to maintain vigour and help the plant continue blooming through late summer.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove faded blooms regularly, as this promotes continuous flowering and keeps Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ looking neat and refreshed.
• Seasonal Cutting Back: After the main flush of flowers, trim back stems lightly to encourage tidy regrowth and a more compact habit.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature around Geranium pratense ‘Laura’.
• Winter Mulch: A light protective mulch helps stabilise the soil and supports long-term root health through colder periods.

Supporting the Plant

Growing to around 60 cm tall, Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ may benefit from light support in open or windy positions; however, in sheltered areas it typically stands upright without assistance.

Final Tips

Geranium pratense ‘Laura’ is a hardy, elegant perennial that provides months of pure-white blooms and soft, finely cut foliage. By planting it in a bright, free-draining spot, watering moderately and feeding occasionally, you will enjoy a reliable and graceful display every summer. With minimal maintenance, this Geranium becomes a beautiful and enduring highlight in any garden.

RHS Details

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