Geum

Geum Plants – Best In NZ!

Adding colourful perennials to your garden such as Geums, delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They attract birds and bees.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have the largest variety of geum plants and the right one for your space. These have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Geums, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Geum Questions

1. Where do Geums grow best?

Geums are hardy perennials that can be grown in a variety of climates. They prefer moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.

2. How long does it take for a Geum to flower?

Geums typically flower in late spring or early summer, but the exact flowering time will vary depending on the species and cultivar.

3. What is the alternative name for Geum?

The alternate name for Geum is avens. Avens plants are perennial herbs that are native to temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They are typically found in moist meadows, woodlands, and along streambanks. The common name avens is derived from the Latin word aventia, which means "riverside plant." This name is likely due to the fact that many avens plants are found in moist habitats.

Avens plants are known for their attractive flowers, which come in a variety of colours, including yellow, orange, red, and pink. The flowers are typically arranged in clusters at the top of the plant. Avens plants also produce edible leaves and fruits.

4. How far apart do you plant Geums?

Geum plants should be spaced 40-50 cm apart when planting. This will give the plants enough room to grow and spread.

Here are some tips for spacing Geum plants:

• Consider the size of the mature plant. Some geum cultivars, such as Geum 'Totally Tangerine', can grow up to 1 m tall and wide. Other cultivars, such as Geum 'Mai Tai', are more compact and will only grow up to 30 cm tall and wide.
• Leave enough room between the plants so that they can circulate air and receive sunlight.
• Avoid overcrowding the plants, as this can increase the risk of pests and diseases.

With proper spacing, your geum plants will thrive and provide you with many years of enjoyment.

5. Why is Geum not flowering?

Several factors could be preventing your Geum from flowering. To diagnose the issue, it's helpful to consider various aspects of its care and environment:

Light:

• Insufficient sunlight: Geums generally need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to flower abundantly. If planted in too much shade, they might prioritize foliage growth over blooms.
• Too hot afternoon sun: In some climates, scorching midday sun can stress Geums and inhibit flowering. Partial shade during the hottest part of the day might be beneficial.

Water:

• Overwatering: While Geums prefer moist soil, soggy conditions can discourage flowering and even damage the roots. Ensure good drainage and allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again.
• Underwatering: Severe drought can also stress Geums and limit their energy for blooming. During hot and dry periods, provide consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist.

Nutrients:

• Excess nitrogen: Overfertilizing, especially with fertilizers high in nitrogen, can promote lush foliage at the expense of flowers. Stick to moderate fertilization with balanced fertilizer in spring or use compost as a natural nutrient source.
• Nutrient deficiency: Conversely, a lack of essential nutrients like phosphorus or potassium can also affect flowering. Applying a light amount of organic fertilizer before the blooming season may help.

Other factors:

• Planting depth: Geums planted too deeply might prioritize establishing roots before flowering. Ensure they're planted at the correct depth for their variety, usually with the crown slightly above the soil surface.
• Plant age: Some Geum varieties, especially when started from seed, might not flower profusely in their first year. Give them another season to mature and you might see more blooms.
• Variety: Certain Geum varieties are naturally longer-blooming or more abundant bloomers than others. Research the specific variety you have to understand its typical flowering habits.

6. Is Geum short lived?

Whether Geum is short-lived depends on several factors, including the specific variety and the care it receives. Generally:

• Some Geum species and hybrids are short-lived: Geum chiloense and G. coccineum, for example, might only last a few years even with good care. Their hybrids like 'Blazing Sunset' and 'Mrs. Bradshaw' often inherit this trait.
• Many Geums are quite long-lived: Many cultivars and species can thrive for years with proper care, like G. rivale and 'Totally Tangerine'. Some older varieties like 'Mrs. Bradshaw' might have a reputation for being short-lived, but these days, breeding has produced more enduring cultivars.

Factors affecting lifespan:

• Care: Providing optimal sunlight, moisture, and occasional division helps prolong lifespan. Overwatering, underwatering, and nutrient deficiencies can shorten it.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial for healthy Geums. Poor drainage can lead to root rot and reduce lifespan.
• Climate: Some Geums tolerate hot summers and winter temperatures better than others. Extreme heat or cold can stress plants and shorten their lifespan.