Geranium ‘Summer Skies’

Description

Geranium ‘Summer Skies’ is a striking hardy perennial known for its double, ruffled lilac flowers with purple veining and a softly tinted yellow centre. Moreover, its long flowering season and generous size make it an excellent choice for borders, cottage gardens, and mixed planting schemes.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant Geranium ‘Summer Skies’ when the soil is workable and gently warming. During this period, roots establish more efficiently and, as a result, the plant settles quickly before flowering begins from early summer through to early autumn.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position in full sun or partial shade. Sufficient light, therefore, supports strong stems and encourages abundant flowering on Geranium ‘Summer Skies’.
• Soil: Free-draining, moderately fertile soil is ideal. Although adaptable, improving the soil with organic matter will enhance moisture balance and overall plant health.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth to allow room for root expansion.
2. Soil Improvement: Mix compost into the excavated soil to boost structure and fertility.
3. Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball sits level with the soil surface, then backfill and firm gently.
4. Water In Well: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and support early root development for Geranium ‘Summer Skies’.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water regularly during active growth, ensuring the soil dries slightly between watering sessions. Consequently, this prevents waterlogging while maintaining consistent moisture.
• Dormant Period: Reduce watering significantly, providing moisture only when the soil becomes very dry, which helps Geranium ‘Summer Skies’ maintain a natural growth rhythm.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to encourage healthy foliage and strong flowering stems.
• Mid-Season: Additionally, a light supplementary feed can help sustain blooms during the peak flowering period.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers frequently to extend the flowering season and keep plants looking fresh. This process also redirects energy back into Geranium ‘Summer Skies’.
• Cutting Back: Lightly trim after flowering to refresh growth and maintain a neat, upright habit.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure.
• Protective Mulch: Later in the year, mulching helps protect roots and supports long-term plant vigour.

Final Tips

Geranium ‘Summer Skies’ is a hardy, dependable perennial that rewards minimal effort with months of elegant colour. Plant it in a bright, well-drained position, provide consistent care, and enjoy a reliable display that returns stronger each year.