How do you grow Geums?

Asked by: Patrice Rice

Grow geums in a moisture retentive soil. They thrive in acid or alkaline soils but won’t cope well in very dry soils or in a baking hot south-facing border. Geum rivale types do best in a shady spot and are ideal partners for hellebores.

Can you take cuttings from Geum?

To be able to get beautiful geum flowers, one has the option of propagating them through the method of division. This method of propagation is possible, as geum has more than one stem. All you need to do is dig up the established plant, and separate it into pieces. Ensure that each of these separate pieces has a root.

How do you maintain Geum?

Taking Care of Geum

Divide mature clumps every three or four years to maintain vigour. The plants spread via underground rhizomes, but are not invasive. Mulch with compost or organic humus in spring to help keep soil moist. Use twigs to provide some support for the stems of taller forms.

Should I deadhead my Geums?

Answer: Geums are wonderful, cheerful additions to the garden that really work hard for much of the summer. Just deadhead individual flowers, since there are usually flowers out next to buds just below the faded flowers. So keep those lovely long stems with plenty of buds still to come.

Can geums be grown in pots?

‘The great thing about geums is that they’re so easy to grow – they’ll do well in any conditions apart from very dry soil,’ he says. ‘They’re slug-proof and rabbit-proof, they’ll do well in pots or in the ground, and you can split and divide them every few years to increase your stock.

Do geums spread?

Geums spread by rhizomes. Side shoots are easy to dig up and can be replanted in the garden. Plants can also be divided in spring and will set seed.

Does geum like sun or shade?

Most varieties thrive best in moist soil, so it’s a good idea to incorporate organic matter when planting them, to help conserve moisture. A spot in partial shade is ideal, as the foliage can scorch in full sun. As for colour, geum flowers provide some of the richest hues available, from deep reds to custard yellows.

Is geum a geranium?

Geum rivale is known as water avens, chocolate root, Indian chocolate and also purple avens. Growing up, a common garden plant in my area was Geum ‘Werner Arends’ (aka ‘Borisii’). I never knew it as an avens, rather we called it wild geranium.

Do geums like shade?

Most geums like cool, damp soil so incorporate lots of garden compost or other organic matter when planting them. Most thrive in partial shade and scorch in full sun. Some, though, can cope with more direct sun.

How tall does Geum grow?

Geum plants are best suited to flower beds and borders within cottage and informal garden settings. You should expect to see Geum grow to an approximate height of 90cm (36”) and a spread of 50cm (20”).

Does Geum bloom all summer?

Geum flowers are held above the evergreen foliage on wiry stems, giving them a light, airy feeling. They flower profusely in spring and then sporadically throughout the summer.