Hardy geraniums, also known as cranesbill geraniums, received their name from the way their seed pods are shaped; they resemble a crane’s bill. Hardy spreading perennials called cranesbill geraniums are used as fillers between gardens and shrubs, as a low-growing border, and to conceal the barren “ankles” of taller plants. The care of cranesbills is not very demanding. Your cranesbill will thrive and spread cheerfully if you prune the clumps three times a year and fertilize once in the spring. Give cranesbills lots of space because they want to spread out and aren’t afraid to encroach on (smother) nearby plants.
In the early to midspring, just as growth starts to show, prune cranesbill geraniums.
Trim damaged and dead stems back to just above the crown. Cut back side branches to the crown or shorten them by several inches if your cranesbill is expanding beyond its original location.
- Hardy geraniums, also known as cranesbill geraniums, received their name from the way their seed pods are shaped; they resemble a crane’s bill.
- Hardy spreading perennials called cranesbill geraniums are used as fillers between gardens and shrubs, as a low-growing border, and to conceal the barren “ankles” of taller plants.
Midsummer or after the flowers have started to fade is the best time to prune cranesbill geraniums back to 6 to 7 inches. They will remain more compact as a result, and late summer will see another blooming burst.
In the early to mid-fall, prune faded flowers by making cuts just above a sturdy branch or bud.