Larkspur Delphinium 'Elizabeth Cook'

Water

Larkspur 'Elizabeth Cook' prefers consistent moisture and should be watered deeply once a week, allowing approximately one to two gallons of water per plant to ensure the root zone is thoroughly soaked. During hot or dry periods, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week. Be cautious not to over-water, as standing water or extremely soggy soil can lead to root rot. It is imperative to avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent fungal diseases—water early in the morning to allow any accidental splashes on the leaves to dry quickly.

Light

Larkspur 'Elizabeth Cook' thrives in full sunlight, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Plant it in a spot that receives uninterrupted sun throughout the day for optimal growth and blooming. If you live in a region with intense midday sun, providing light afternoon shade can help prevent stress on the plant during the hottest part of the day.

Temperature

Larkspur 'Elizabeth Cook' is cold-hardy and grows best in cooler climates, with ideal temperatures ranging between 50°F and 75°F. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40°F and maximum temperatures up to approximately 85°F. However, sustained temperatures outside of this range can negatively impact the plant's health and flowering capacity.

Pruning

The larkspur 'Elizabeth Cook' should be pruned to encourage better air circulation, promote new growth, and maintain an attractive shape. Deadheading spent flowers will also encourage additional blooming. Cut back the plant by one-third after the first flush of blooms to rejuvenate it for a potential second bloom period. The best time for pruning is immediately after flowering.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Larkspur 'Elizabeth Cook' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix containing equal parts of loam, compost, and sand or perlite creates an ideal growing medium for this Delphinium cultivar, offering both nutrients and good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Repotting

Larkspurs like 'Elizabeth Cook' don't typically require frequent repotting since they are perennials that are usually grown outdoors. However, if grown in containers, repotting every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot is sufficient.

Humidity & Misting

Larkspur 'Elizabeth Cook' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a variety of humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments. It doesn't have specific humidity requirements when planted in the ground.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temps, and spaced for tall growth.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, shelter from wind, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

The Delphinium 'Elizabeth Cook' — commonly known as Larkspur — begins as a seed, which germinates in early spring when soil temperatures are cool. After germination, the seedling emerges, developing a small rosette of basal leaves as it enters the vegetative growth stage. As the plant matures, it elongates with a sturdy central stem and produces deeply-lobed green leaves. The floral stage follows, where tall spires adorned with semi-double, vivid blue-purple flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce small, dry fruits containing seeds that ripen and are released when the fruit opens. The plant may enter a period of dormancy post-flowering, especially in regions with hot summers or cold winters, only to resume growth in the following season, completing its perennial cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Delphinium 'Elizabeth Cook', commonly known as Larkspur, is primarily propagated through seed sowing. The ideal time for sowing Larkspur seeds is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed, when soil temperatures have reached around 55-65°F (13-18°C). To propagate, prepare a well-draining soil mix and sow the seeds on the surface, as they require light to germinate. Cover them only lightly with soil, if at all. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until germination, which typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out or transplant them to their final positions, ensuring they are spaced adequately to allow for mature growth.