One of the most regal of all the perennial flowering plants, Delphiniums are a true delight. The tall, stately blooms of Delphiniums command your attention and reward all who grow them with stems and stems of delicate looking blooms, which can range in colour from bright blues and purples, to shades of lavender, pink, mauve and white. As a cut flower Delphiniums are perfect for large arrangements due to their long stems and will last well in a vase for well over a week.
3 steps to planting delphiniums
Prepare
Delphiniums enjoy a sunny position in a moist, well-drained, fertile soil away from strong winds. Their tall stems can snap if left unprotected from blustery winds, and staking is recommended on tall varieties. Delphiniums are very hardy and tolerant of frosts, in cold areas mulching in winter will protect any young shoots which may try to emerge in the early season. Don’t be tempted to plant Delphiniums too close together as they need plenty of air movement to keep mildew and fungal problems at bay. Plants are widely available in Garden Centres in the spring.
Some favourite varieties to look out for are Blue Lace, Magic Fountains Mix, Morning Lights, Pacific Giants and Shogun Blend.
Like building a house a good foundation is the key to success in your garden. The better the soil, the better your Delphiniums will grow. If you are starting with an existing garden bed dig in organic matter like Tui Sheep Pellets and Tui Compost to your soil. Then you can add a layer of Tui Flower Mix.
PLANT
The best times to plant are early in the morning or late in the day, so the plants aren’t exposed to the hot sun straight away. Always water plants well before and after planting.
Directions for planting in garden beds
- Water plants thoroughly before planting and allow to drain.
- Dig a hole, approximately twice the depth and width of the root ball of your plant.
- Gently loosen the root ball of your plant and position the plant in the centre of the hole.
- Fill in with Tui Flower Mix.
- Press soil gently around the base of the plant.
- Water your plant well and continue to water regularly.
Directions for potting plants
- Water plants thoroughly before potting and allow to drain.
- Half fill your container with Tui Flower Mix.
- Gently take the plant from the current container, loosen the root ball and remove any loose or dead plant material and roots.
- Position the plant in the centre of the new container and fill with Tui Flower Mix up to 3cm from the top.
- Gently firm mix around the base of the plant. The mix should be at the same level on the plant as it was in the previous container.
- Water your plant well and continue to water regularly.
Nourish
Feed your plants and they will feed you. Plants use nutrients from the soil as they grow, so replenishing the nutrients ensures your plants grow to their full potential. Feed your Delphiniums with Tui NovaTec® Premium Fertiliser in spring.
A well watered, well nourished garden will have a better chance of keeping insect pests and diseases at bay. While your Delphiniums are growing regularly apply a dose of Tui Organic Seaweed Plant Tonic to give them a welcome boost.
Prune back after flowering to enhance shape and encourage new stems.
Delphiniums may require staking due to their tall, stately blooms.