Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’

Description

Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ is a delightful, low-growing perennial known for its masses of small white flowers that gently take on a pink tinge as they age. Its shiny green foliage turns rich red shades in autumn, giving Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ year-round appeal. Because it spreads naturally to form a dense carpet, Geranium is excellent for borders, slopes, rock gardens and ground-cover planting.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ when the soil naturally begins to warm or retains gentle warmth, as this encourages strong early root development and ensures vigorous growth before flowering begins.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position with full sun or partial shade, as this supports abundant flowering and helps Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ retain its compact, attractive form. Additionally, good light encourages strong foliage colouration, especially in autumn.
• Soil: Geranium thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Improving heavy or compacted areas with compost or grit enhances drainage and root health, consequently supporting reliable flowering and steady growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth, giving room to spread and anchor its roots.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the surrounding soil to boost fertility and improve structure, resulting in healthier establishment and long-term performance.
3. Planting: Position the plant with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove any air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and help moisture reach the root zone without causing waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water moderately, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Since Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ prefers moist yet well-drained soil, this balanced approach prevents overwatering while supporting continuous flowering.
• Dormant Period: Water sparingly and only when the soil becomes noticeably dry, allowing the plant’s natural rest cycle to continue undisturbed.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to encourage fresh growth and support early flower production, helping Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ start the season strongly.
• Mid-Summer: A light supplementary feed can help maintain vigour and extend the blooming period into early autumn.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage continued blooming. Deadheading also directs energy into new growth.
• Seasonal Cutting Back: After flowering slows, trim the plant lightly to refresh the foliage and maintain a compact mound.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil structure around Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’.
• Winter Mulch: A protective mulch helps support root health and stabilise soil conditions for the following growing season.

Supporting the Plant

Growing to around 20 cm tall with a 50 cm spread, Geranium naturally forms a low, dense mat and typically requires no staking, making it ideal for ground-cover use.

Final Tips

Geranium x cantabrigiense ‘St Ola’ is a hardy, easy-care perennial that offers months of charming white–pink flowers, followed by gorgeous autumn leaf colour. By planting it in a bright, well-drained, moisture-retentive position, watering moderately and feeding occasionally, you will enjoy a dependable and attractive display year after year. With minimal maintenance, this Geranium becomes a valuable, long-lasting feature in any garden.