Wild Geranium - Pelargonium australe seeds

This spring, the charming Wild Geranium - Pelargonium australe adds a graceful touch to any native garden.

Typically found in wooded areas, this delicate wildflower can also thrive in full sun. 

Native Americans and early settlers utilized the plant's rhizomes for extracting natural tannin and tanning hides, and it was also widely used for its herbal and medicinal properties.

Direct sow the wild geranium seeds just below the surface in late autumn for spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 60 days. Then, sow in a flat or individual peat pots, keeping the soil lightly moist and at 25 degrees C until germination.

Once the seedlings are well established and the weather is warmer, transplant them outdoors. As the geranium plants develop and bloom, keep the soil moist; dry conditions may cause premature dormancy.

Divide mature plants for new growth. While these plants self-seed easily, volunteer plants can be transplanted or removed. Wild geraniums attract butterflies and bees.

Enjoy their delicate blossoms in the garden, as they do not last long as cut flowers. To save seeds, remove the distinctive beak-like seed pods as soon as they start to turn brown but before they split. Let the pods dry, covering them to contain the seeds as they split open.