Geums, also known as avens, are beautiful flowering plants that can add a touch of color and elegance to any garden. When it comes to growing geums, it’s important to consider their specific needs and preferences in order to ensure their success.
One of the most important factors to consider when growing geums is the type of soil they prefer. Geums thrive in a moisture-retentive soil, meaning they require soil that can hold water well. This is important because geums do not tolerate drought very well and require a consistent supply of moisture to thrive.
In terms of soil pH, geums are fairly adaptable and can tolerate both acid and alkaline soils. So, whether you have acidic soil or alkaline soil in your garden, geums should be able to grow well. However, it’s important to note that geums do not do well in very dry soils. If you have sandy or fast-draining soil, it may be necessary to amend it with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its moisture retention capabilities.
Another factor to consider when deciding where to grow geums is the amount of sunlight they will receive. While geums can tolerate some shade, they generally prefer a sunny or partially shaded location. However, it’s important to avoid planting geums in a baking hot south-facing border, as they may struggle to cope with the intense heat and dry conditions.
If you have a shady spot in your garden, Geum rivale types are a great choice. These varieties of geums do best in a shady spot and are often used as ideal companions for other shade-loving plants, such as hellebores. Planting geum rivale types in a shady area can help create a beautiful and harmonious display of contrasting colors and textures.
In terms of planting, geums should be planted in the spring or early autumn. They can be grown from seeds or purchased as young plants from a nursery. When planting geums, make sure to dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and position the plant at the same depth it was growing in its container. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the plant to ensure good root-to-soil contact.
Once planted, geums should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth. Additionally, geums may benefit from a balanced fertilizer application in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Geums grow best in a moisture-retentive soil that is not overly dry. They can tolerate both acid and alkaline soils, but may struggle in very dry or sandy soils. Geums prefer a sunny or partially shaded location, although certain varieties, such as Geum rivale, do well in shady spots. By providing the right growing conditions and care, geums can thrive and add beauty to your garden.
