Buy hardy geraniums (cranesbill) here as perennials for sun, partial shade and shade. The range runs from Geranium 'Rozanne', which flowers into autumn, through the Himalayan cranesbill to the bloody cranesbill for dry spots. Hardy geraniums form dense carpets, suppress weeds and are visited by bees. They can be planted from spring to autumn.
Hardy geraniums should not be confused with the balcony geraniums (pelargoniums). These are hardy perennials of the genus Geranium, with species for almost every spot in the garden. A great favourite is 'Rozanne': it flowers violet-blue from June to October and weaves loosely through neighbouring plants. Similarly blue but earlier flowering are the Himalayan cranesbill (Geranium himalayense), such as 'Gravetye', and the classic 'Johnsons Blue'.
For dry, sunny spots the bloody cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum) is a good choice, for example 'Album' in white or 'Var. Striatum' in soft pink. In shade under trees, the dusky cranesbill (Geranium phaeum), such as 'Raven', and the rock cranesbill (Geranium macrorrhizum) with its aromatic foliage thrive. The meadow cranesbill (Geranium pratense) and Geranium x oxonianum such as 'A.T. Johnson' grow vigorously and suit larger areas.
Plant hardy geraniums from March to October, except in heat or frost. Spring and early autumn are ideal; on the Swiss Plateau the plants still root in well in September. Most species grow in sun to partial shade in ordinary garden soil. Bloody cranesbill and Geranium cantabrigiense tolerate drought, while dusky and rock cranesbill also cope with dry shade under trees and shrubs.
Every three to five years you can divide large clumps in spring. Hardy geraniums are robust, rarely troubled by slugs and need no fertiliser unless the soil is very poor. A little compost in spring is enough.
Hardy geraniums are an ideal partner for roses, covering their bare base. They go well with lady's mantle, salvia, hostas and grasses. As ground cover under shrubs they save on maintenance. The open, cup-shaped flowers are popular with wild bees and honeybees. You will find suitable companions under Roses, Salvia and Hostas.
