The clove root (Geum) is represented in German natural landscapes by wild occurrences of common carnation root (Geum urbanum) and stream carnation root (Geum rivale). If carnation root is established in the garden, it can certainly spread widely through self-sowing.
How do you care for clove root in the garden?
The care of the carnation root includes a partially shaded location, regular watering, loose, humus-rich, low-lime planting substrate and rejuvenation by division every 4-5 years. The plant is hardy and can be used in the kitchen or as a medicine.
The best location for the carnation root
Partially shaded garden areas are ideal for planting carnation root, where the plants receive enough sunlight and warmth, but at the same time do not dry out so easily. Similar to the also very flowering glossary, the carnation root does not tolerate excessive waterlogging, but the roots of the carnation root can always be prevented from drying out completely by watering them regularly.
A hardy perennial with a preference for lime-poor soils
Just as most varieties of the ice plant are hardy in this country, the carnation root, even in cool locations, is only occasionally damaged by clear frosts. The plant substrate, which is as loose and humus-rich as possible, can be covered with a little peat (€8.00 on Amazon) to protect the carnation root from drying out and at the same time ensure a rather acidic and low-lime environment.
Rejuvenate the clove root regularly
After about 4 to 5 years of standing in the same location, you should rejuvenate the carnation root a little if necessary in order to achieve the following aspects by dividing it:
- the uncomplicated propagation of plants
- ensuring vitality and abundance of flowers
- loosening and improving the soil
Dig up the plant carefully in spring or autumn and remove all woody parts. Then only replant the softer parts of the plant. If you replant the clove root in its old location, you should take this opportunity to loosen the soil thoroughly and incorporate some seasoned compost and a portion of peat soil (for a slightly acidic environment) as long-term fertilizer.
The clove root as a remedy and spice
The name clove root probably comes from the fact that the roots of this plant, with their smell and taste, are very close to cloves. In contrast to other delicately flowering perennial plants such as Solomon's seal, with their potential for poisoning, which should not be underestimated, clove root is traditionally grown as a natural remedy and culinary herb. The common carnation root usually blooms from around June to August and was previously used as a tanning agent and to flavor beer and wine.
Tip
There are many different subspecies of carnation root with different heights and flower colors. Mixtures of small groups of plants from different species of carnation root are particularly visually appealing in the perennial bed.
