Stunning spring and summertime blooms offset by leaves with scalloped edges make the Avens a lovely choice for an outdoor space. Also known as Geum, this clump-forming perennial provides color and texture year after year when properly maintained. Learn how to care for Avens so you can enjoy healthy plants loaded with flowers.
What You Need To Plant Avens
- Shovel
- Compost or manure
- Garden spade
- Good location
- Water source
- Mulch
Where to Plant Avens
Plant Avens so the top of the root ball is even with the ground. This plant does not like soggy conditions, and placing the plant lower than the surrounding ground may cause water to accumulate, which can be damaging. Soil should be rich, moist, and well-drained. Avens grow best in full sun to partial shade. Intense afternoon sun can be damaging, so choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade when growing in southern regions.
Avens Spacing
Most cultivars of Avens are clump forming, so they naturally maintain a rounded shape. Other types will trail and spread out. Confirm the full-grown size when selecting plants and space Avens so there will be at least a couple of inches around the plant. Leave space so air can circulate, which helps the plants bloom and maintain healthy growth.
Steps To Plant Avens
Avens are not fussy plants, but the location matters, so take time to choose the right spot. Rich soil high in organic content helps Avens proliferate and push out plenty of flowers. When planting, dig a large hole and amend the soil with organic compost or manure. New plants need lots of water to help them settle in.
Step 1 - Select an area that receives full to partial sun
Step 2 - Dig a hole larger than the root ball
Step 3 - Mix organic compost or manure in with the soil
Step 4 - Place the plant in the hole, so the top of the root ball is even with the ground
Step 5 - Fill in the hole around the plant and press the soil into place
Step 6 - Spread mulch around the base of the plant and water the site thoroughly
When to Plant Avens
Plant Avens during the spring after there is no longer a chance of cold weather. Getting an early start allows this plant to have as much time as possible to acclimate before setting flowers. Avens can be planted later during the growing season, but the plant may not bloom during the first year.
Transplanting Avens
Large plants can be dug up and divided in the spring. Separate the plant into multiple smaller clumps and replant each new Avens. Splitting plants enables you to grow your collection while also helping the initial plant maintain a more manageable size.
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 08-23-2022 |