Columbine Aquilegia 'Louisiana' (State Series)

Water

Columbine should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root development. Once established, they are relatively drought tolerant and require watering only once a week during dry spells, with about 1 inch of water per session. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. During the first growing season, ensure consistent moisture to help the plants get established. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases and water at the base of the plant, using roughly 0.5 gallons per plant each time during the active growing season.

Light

Columbine thrives in dappled sunlight or part shade, making them ideal for spots that receive morning sun and afternoon shade or light filtered through canopy trees. They can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in warmer areas, protection from the harsh afternoon sun will prevent scorching of the leaves and ensure the best flowering results. The optimal growing spot for Columbine is an area with ample indirect light that mimics their natural woodland habitat.

Temperature

Columbine prefers moderate temperatures and can grow well in temperatures ranging from 50 to 70°F. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -20°F and can handle summer highs moderately well as long as they are not exposed to prolonged periods of heat above 90°F. Ideally, Columbine should be grown in areas where the summer temperatures hover around the 70s°F for optimal blooming and foliage health.

Pruning

Columbine benefits from pruning to remove spent flower stems after blooming to promote a tidy appearance and potentially encourage a second bloom. Dead leaves and damaged stems should also be pruned to maintain plant health and prevent disease. The best time for pruning is in late fall or early spring. Pruning is typically done annually, or as needed to remove dead or unsightly foliage.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Columbine 'Louisiana' thrives in well-draining, moist soil enriched with organic matter, with a preferred pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix containing loam, compost, and peat moss is ideal, ensuring good aeration and fertility.

Repotting

Columbine 'Louisiana' doesn't require frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its container. Division of roots during repotting can encourage healthier growth.

Humidity & Misting

Columbine 'Louisiana' prefers moderate humidity levels. Ensure adequate air circulation to prevent high humidity which can lead to fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright indirect light, and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade to full sun, in moist, rich soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA

Life cycle

Aquilegia 'Louisiana' (State Series), commonly known as Columbine, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate, typically in the spring, requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. After germination, seedlings emerge and develop into small rosettes of foliage, with true leaves forming as they mature. As the plants grow, they develop a deep root system and by late spring or early summer, tall stems rise above the foliage, bearing distinctive spurred flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, these flowers produce follicles containing seeds that will mature by late summer. Seeds are then dispersed by wind or gravity. Columbines may enter a period of dormancy in winter, particularly in colder climates, but existing plants will sprout new growth from their crowns the following spring, repeating the cycle, and they can also self-seed readily, creating new plants nearby.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Aquilegia 'Louisiana', commonly known as Columbine, is most popularly propagated through seed sowing. The ideal time for sowing Columbine seeds is either in late winter or early spring, which allows enough time for stratification—a period of cold treatment that aids in breaking seed dormancy. To propagate by seed, you should start indoors by distributing the seeds evenly over a well-draining seed starting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil as they need light for germination, and place the container in a spot with indirect light. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 3 to 4 weeks at temperatures between 65°F and 70°F (18°C and 21°C). Once seedlings have developed a set of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, they can be hardened off and transferred to a suitable location in the garden.