Himalayan cranesbill (Geranium himalayense): when and how to prune

Himalayan cranesbill (Geranium himalayense): when to prune it?

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In July, after the first flowering, cut the clump back hard. In March, clear away the old, dead leaves.

What else to prune in those months? March · July

Himalayan cranesbill (Geranium himalayense): how to prune it?

1. After the first flush, cut all flower stems and old leaves back to 5–10 cm above the ground.
2. Then water and add some compost: within a few weeks new leaves appear, often with a second, smaller flowering.
3. Leave the clump standing in autumn: the leaves colour beautifully.
4. In March, cut away dead leaves and stems to just above the new shoots.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Himalayan cranesbill (Geranium himalayense) 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

• Armenian cranesbill
• Bigroot cranesbill
• Bloody cranesbill
• Cambridge cranesbill (Geranium × cantabrigiense)
• Druce’s cranesbill (Geranium × oxonianum)
• Dusky cranesbill

Plant profile: Himalayan cranesbill (Geranium himalayense) · Pruning calendar and basic rules