French cranesbill: when and how to prune

French cranesbill: when to prune it?

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In July, after the first big flush of flowers, when the plant becomes untidy. In March, tidy away the old leaves.

What else to prune in those months? March · July

French cranesbill: how to prune it?

1. In July, cut all stems and old leaves back to 5–10 cm above the ground; for a large group, hedge shears will do.
2. Then water and give a little compost: after 3–4 weeks fresh leaves appear, followed by new flowers until September.
3. If you cut back before the seed is ripe, it also self-seeds less.
4. In March, cut away leaves that died or were damaged over winter, 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?

• French cranesbill flowers in June–September, 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: French cranesbill · Pruning calendar and basic rules