Geums, also known as avens, are perennial plants that come back year after year. They are reliable and slow-growing plants that can add beauty to any garden or border. While they may not be as long-lived as some other perennials, they can still provide several years of enjoyment in the garden.
One of the great things about geums is their profusion of late spring flowers. These flowers come in a range of colors, including shades of red, yellow, orange, and pink. They add a lovely splash of color to the garden, especially when planted in groups or drifts.
After the flowers fade, geums produce decorative seed heads. These seed heads can add interest and texture to the garden, and can also be left in place to provide food for birds and other wildlife.
When it comes to care, geums are relatively low-maintenance. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but do best in fertile, moist soil. Geums are also fairly drought-tolerant once established, making them a good choice for gardens with less consistent rainfall.
As for their lifespan, geums are considered short-lived perennials. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can be divided and replanted every three years or so to keep them going. Dividing geums not only helps to rejuvenate the plants, but it also allows you to propagate new plants and expand your garden.
In my personal experience, I have found geums to be reliable and beautiful additions to my garden. I have planted them in a sunny border alongside other perennials, and they have provided a burst of color and interest year after year. While I have had to divide and replant them every few years, the process has been relatively easy and rewarding.
Geums are perennial plants that come back every year. They offer a profusion of late spring flowers and decorative seed heads, adding beauty and interest to the garden. While they may have a relatively short lifespan, they can be divided and replanted to extend their presence in the garden. With their low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in a range of conditions, geums are a great choice for naturalistic style plantings and border gardens.