Troubleshooting
Dove's-Foot Cranesbill problems — and how to fix them
Dove's-Foot Cranesbill (Geranium molle) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Explosive self-seeding in lawns
Seed pods catapult ripe seeds several centimetres from the parent; a single plant can spread rapidly across a lawn in one season. Mow regularly and rake before mowing to lift and remove developing seed heads.
Powdery mildew
The soft, hairy foliage is susceptible to powdery mildew in dry, still conditions. Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering and remove affected leaves; the annual lifecycle means chemical treatment is rarely warranted.
Prevent dove's-foot cranesbill problems before they start
Most dove's-foot cranesbill issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Dove's-Foot Cranesbill problems — FAQ
Why is my dove's-foot cranesbill explosive self-seeding in lawns?
Seed pods catapult ripe seeds several centimetres from the parent; a single plant can spread rapidly across a lawn in one season. Mow regularly and rake before mowing to lift and remove developing seed heads.
Why is my dove's-foot cranesbill powdery mildew?
The soft, hairy foliage is susceptible to powdery mildew in dry, still conditions. Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering and remove affected leaves; the annual lifecycle means chemical treatment is rarely warranted.