Delphinium Delphinium 'Faust'

Water

Larkspur requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, but it is important not to overwater to prevent root rot. Generally, water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water. This can translate to approximately 0.62 gallons per square foot. During periods of drought or extreme heat, increase watering frequency to 2-3 times per week, ensuring that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. In cooler, wetter climates, you may need to water less frequently. Adjust the watering schedule based on rainfall and check the soil moisture regularly.

Light

Larkspur thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for the plant would be an area that's exposed to unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid planting larkspur in shaded areas, as this can lead to poor flowering and a higher risk of fungal diseases due to less sunlight and lower air circulation.

Temperature

Larkspur prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate minimum temperatures down to 40°F, though it performs best when daytime temperatures are between 65°F and 75°F. Prolonged exposure to temperatures over 85°F can stress the plant. Larkspur can survive a light frost, but it's important to protect it during unexpected cold snaps to prevent damage.

Pruning

For larkspur, remove spent flowers to encourage additional blooming and maintain plant vigor. Prune the plant back after the first flush of flowers has faded, which is often in late spring to early summer. Cutting back the stems can promote a second, though less vigorous, flush of blooms later in the season. Deadheading and removing any damaged or diseased foliage helps to keep the plant healthy and attractive.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Larkspur 'Faust' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, like compost or well-rotted manure, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts is ideal for optimal growth and drainage.

Repotting

Larkspur 'Faust' generally does not need frequent repotting; it should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. During the repotting process, it is a good time to divide the plant if it has become too crowded.

Humidity & Misting

Larkspur 'Faust' prefers moderate humidity levels, but as a garden plant, it can usually tolerate the humidity levels present in typical outdoor conditions without needing specific adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, cool temps, and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, protect from wind, rich, moist, and well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

Delphinium 'Faust', commonly known as Larkspur, begins its life as a seed, typically sown in late winter to early spring in well-drained soil and with adequate sunlight. The seed germinates, producing a small rosette of leaves as the seedling establishes itself. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant develops a taller stem and more leaves, gathering energy through photosynthesis. During early to mid-summer, it progresses to the flowering stage, boasting tall spikes of deep purple-blue flowers that attract pollinators and are ideal for cutting gardens. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit containing seeds, completing the reproduction stage. As summer ends and temperatures drop, the plant enters dormancy, with the aerial parts dying back, while the root system remains alive to begin a new cycle the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Delphinium 'Faust', commonly known as Larkspur, is traditionally propagated by seed. The best time to propagate by seed is in spring after the danger of frost has passed. To do so, prepare a seedbed with well-drained soil, as Delphiniums do not like wet feet. Sow the seeds directly into the ground, spacing them about an inch apart, and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have a couple of sets of true leaves, thin them to about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to give each plant enough room to grow. This method is favored due to its simplicity and the ability to produce a large number of plants relatively quickly.