Geum is a Hardy Perennial.

It forms a low mound of semi-evergreen leaves that stays neat all year. In late spring, it sends up tall, branching flower stems.

Longevity: Geums are often short-lived perennials (3-4 years), but 'Mrs Bradshaw' is vigorous. To keep it going for longer, dig up the clump every 3 years in autumn, split it in half, and replant. This rejuvenates the plant and gives you free spares!

Geums are easy to grow from seed and will often flower in their first year if sown early.

Germination:
Sow indoors from February to April, or outdoors in late summer/autumn. Surface sow onto moist compost and cover very lightly with vermiculite (they benefit from a little light). Keep warm (18-20°C). Germination takes 14-21 days.

Where to Sow:
They thrive in sun or partial shade. They prefer soil that is moisture-retentive but well-drained. They dislike winter waterlogging, so if you have heavy clay, add grit to the planting hole.

Care While Growing:
Deadhead: This is the secret to a long display. If you cut back the spent flower stems regularly, the plant will push up new ones, extending the show into late summer.

The warm red of 'Mrs Bradshaw' looks stunning against cool blues or fresh greens:

• 💙 Forget-me-not 'Blue': The Spring Contrast. Geum starts flowering just as the Forget-me-nots are finishing. The deep red rising out of the sea of baby blue is a classic, vibrant cottage garden look.
• 🍋 Bupleurum 'Griffithii': The Florist's Pair. The zesty lime-green flowers of Bupleurum make the scarlet red of the Geum pop. Growing them together gives you an instant, high-contrast bouquet.

Sow indoors in spring or outdoors in late summer. Flowers late May to September.