Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT, CC BY 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Armenian cranesbill: when and how to prune
Geranium psilostemon
Armenian cranesbill is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Armenian cranesbill: when to prune it?
In August, after the first flush of flowers, and in March to clear away the old, dead leaves.
Armenian cranesbill: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut the spent stems and old leaves back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
- Then water and add some compost so that new leaves come quickly.
- Leave the leaves in autumn for their colour and cut the dead remains back to just above the ground in March.
- If you want seedlings, leave a few flower stems until the seed is ripe.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Armenian cranesbill flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Bigroot cranesbill
- Bloody cranesbill
- Cambridge cranesbill (Geranium × cantabrigiense)
- Druce’s cranesbill (Geranium × oxonianum)
- Dusky cranesbill
- French cranesbill
Plant profile: Armenian cranesbill · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.