Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw' Seeds

If you are looking for a vintage, romantic red rather than a harsh, modern scarlet, 'Mrs J. Bradshaw' is the queen. This classic perennial produces semi-double, ruffled flowers that look like miniature roses. They rise on wiry, dark stems above a mound of fuzzy, strawberry-like foliage.

This plant is a gap-bridger. It starts blooming in late spring just as the tulips are fading, and carries on right through to late summer. It brings an intense warmth to the garden and is one of the most reliable cottage garden favourites you can grow.

Why Your Garden Needs 'Mrs J. Bradshaw'

We love this plant because it doesn't flop. Despite the stems being thin and wiry, they are surprisingly strong and hold the flowers up high without needing staking. The flowers nod slightly, which looks beautiful when viewed from a garden path.

It is also an exceptional cut flower. The stems are long and rigid, and the intense red petals hold their shape well in a vase. A small posy of these mixed with some fresh green foliage is the essence of early summer.

Understanding the Plant: What is a Hardy Perennial?

Geum is a Hardy Perennial.

This means it will die back to a low clump of leaves in winter and return bigger and better every spring.
Longevity: Unlike short-lived perennials, Geums can last for years if you divide the clumps every 3-4 years to keep them vigorous.
Top Tip: The secret to a long display is the "Chelsea Chop." If you cut the stems back hard after the first flush of flowers in June, you will often get a second flush of blooms in late summer.

Growing Guide: How to Sow and Grow

Geums are unfussy and easy to start from seed.

🌱 Germination:
Sow indoors Feb-April, or outdoors May-July. Sow on the surface of moist compost. Do not cover the seeds with soil as they need light to germinate. Just press them down gently. Keep at approx 18-20°C. Germination takes 21-28 days (be patient!).

Where to Sow:
They are versatile, happy in sun or partial shade. They dislike soil that dries out completely in summer, so they appreciate soil with some organic matter (compost/leaf mould) dug in to hold the moisture.

Care While Growing:
Keep young plants watered. Once established, they form a dense clump of foliage that helps suppress weeds. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more buds to form.

Plant Specifications

Here is a quick reference guide to the key features.

My Recommended Garden Companions

Red is a strong colour, so it needs partners that can stand up to it. Here are my top pairings:

• 🧢 Aquilegia 'Blue': Red and Blue is a dynamic contrast. The Aquilegia blooms at the exact same time (May/June) as the Geum. The cool blue bonnets make the warm red of the Geum pop.
• 🏰 Foxglove 'Excelsior Mix': Geums are excellent "ground floor" plants, but you need height behind them. Plant Foxgloves at the back of the border and let the red Geums fill the space at their feet.

📅 Sowing & Flowering Calendar

Sow in spring for strong plants that flower the following summer.

(↔️ Swipe chart to see all months)