Geum Alabama Slammer

Description

Garden Advice Notes

Geum “Alabama Slammer” is a cultivar of the perennial plant Geum, which is a member of the rose family. It is a hybrid between Geum rivale and Geum triflorum, developed by breeder Brent Horvath of Intrinsic Perennial Gardens.

Geum “Alabama Slammer” is known for its bright orange-red flowers, which bloom on tall, sturdy stems in late spring and early summer. The flowers have a semi-double form and can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The plant itself grows in a clumping habit, with deep green foliage that forms a dense mound.

Soil type-Geum “Alabama Slammer” prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as they are well-draining.

To ensure good drainage, it is recommended to amend heavy clay soils with organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure. This will help to improve soil structure and water-holding capacity, while also providing the plant with essential nutrients.

It is also important to ensure that the soil is not too wet, as Geum “Alabama Slammer” can be prone to root rot in poorly drained soils. If your soil is heavy and prone to waterlogging, you may need to improve drainage by adding grit or coarse sand to the soil or by planting the Geum on a slightly raised bed or mound.

Location-Geum “Alabama Slammer” is a hardy perennial plant that can grow in a variety of locations. It prefers full sun to partial shade and will grow best in a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.

This plant is adaptable to a range of soil types, as long as they are well-drained, but it does not like extremely wet or boggy conditions. In terms of climate, Geum “Alabama Slammer” is tolerant of both heat and cold. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C) in winter.

Overall, Geum “Alabama Slammer” is a versatile plant that can be grown in many locations, from sunny borders to woodland gardens. It is particularly well-suited to cottage-style gardens, mixed borders, or naturalistic plantings where it can provide a splash of bright color in late spring and early summer.

Pest and disease problems-Geum “Alabama Slammer” is generally considered to be a relatively low-maintenance plant that is not particularly susceptible to pest or disease problems. However, like all plants, it can be affected by certain issues.

One potential pest problem for Geum “Alabama Slammer” is aphids, which can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and distortion of the plant. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.

Another potential pest problem is spider mites, which are tiny arachnids that can cause leaves to become discolored and speckled. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by increasing humidity around the plant.

In terms of diseases, Geum “Alabama Slammer” can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant material promptly. Fungicides can also be used to control these diseases if they do occur.

Overall, with proper care and maintenance, Geum “Alabama Slammer” is a relatively trouble-free plant that can provide years of beautiful blooms in the garden.

Propagation-Geum “Alabama Slammer” can be propagated through division, seed, or cuttings.

Division is the easiest and most reliable method of propagation. This is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. To divide the plant, carefully dig it up and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good root system and some foliage. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil at the same depth as the original plant.

Propagation by seed can also be successful, but it can take longer to produce mature plants. Sow the seeds in containers or seed trays in the fall or early spring, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and place the containers in a warm, bright location until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or planted directly in the garden.

Propagation by cuttings can be more challenging, but it is possible to take stem cuttings in the spring or early summer. Choose healthy stems that have not yet flowered, and cut them into 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) lengths. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a container of well-draining soil and keep it moist and in a bright, warm location. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or planted in the garden.

Pruning, cutting back and dividing-Geum “Alabama Slammer” is a relatively low-maintenance plant that does not require extensive pruning or cutting back. However, regular deadheading can help to promote continued blooming and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.

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