How to Grow Delphiniums: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Delphiniums are stunning plants that add height, color, and drama to any garden. With their towering flower spikes and vibrant blooms, they are a must-have for any flower enthusiast. Growing delphiniums is not difficult, but it does require some care and attention. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to grow healthy and beautiful delphiniums in your own garden.
Choosing the Right Delphiniums
There are many different varieties of delphiniums available, so it is important to choose ones that are well-suited to your climate and growing conditions. Some popular varieties include:
- Delphinium ‘Amadeus’: A gorgeous blue delphinium with velvety, deep-purple/blue flowers and a dark brown “eye.”
- Delphinium ‘Pacific Hybrids’: Tall, stately plants in a range of colors. They are short-lived perennials.
- Delphinium ‘Magic Fountain Series’: Compact plants, suitable for smaller gardens. They come in a range of colors, often with a contrasting eye at the center.
- Delphinium elatum ‘Faust’: Bears incredibly tall spikes of intense blue double flowers, with a dark center.
- Delphinium elatum ‘Cinderella’: A compact, pale pink delphinium with very sturdy stems and triple blooms.
How to Plant Delphiniums
Delphiniums can be planted in spring or fall. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the delphinium in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the delphinium deeply and mulch around the base of the plant with compost or well-rotted manure.
Delphinium Care
Delphiniums are relatively easy to care for, but they do require some regular attention.
- Watering: Delphiniums need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the plants deeply at the base, avoiding getting the foliage wet.
- Fertilizing: Delphiniums are heavy feeders, so they need to be fertilized regularly. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Staking: Delphiniums can grow quite tall, so they may need to be staked to prevent them from falling over. Use stakes or cages to support the plants.
- Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers will encourage the plants to produce more blooms. Cut the flower spikes back to the ground after they have faded.
Delphinium Problems
Delphiniums are generally trouble-free plants, but they can be susceptible to a few problems, including:
- Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails love to eat delphiniums, so it is important to protect the plants from these pests. Use slug bait or traps to keep them away.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white or gray powdery spots on the leaves of delphiniums. To prevent powdery mildew, keep the plants well-watered and avoid getting the foliage wet.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that can cause rust-colored pustules on the leaves of delphiniums. To prevent rust, keep the plants well-watered and remove any infected leaves.
Conclusion
Growing delphiniums is a rewarding experience that can add beauty and elegance to any garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can grow healthy and beautiful delphiniums that will thrive for years to come.
