Delphinium 'Lucia Sahin' Delphinium 'Lucia Sahin'

Water

Larkspur requires consistent moisture, but it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1-1.5 inches of water each time, which equates to approximately 0.62-0.93 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not left in standing water. During periods of high heat or drought, you may need to water more frequently, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy.

Light

Larkspur thrives in full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure the plant is protected from strong afternoon sun in areas with very hot summers, as it prefers cooler conditions. A location with morning sunlight and afternoon shade would be ideal to maintain vibrant flower colors and healthy growth.

Temperature

Larkspur prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 65°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as the upper 40s Fahrenheit but is not suited for extreme heat. The maximum temperature should not exceed 75°F for extended periods. Larkspur benefits from cooler nighttime temperatures and moderate daytime temperatures for optimal growth.

Pruning

Larkspur should be pruned to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and promote more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season. After the initial flush of flowers, cut back the flower stalks by one third to stimulate a second bloom. The best time for more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Delphinium, also known as Larkspur, should be well-draining and rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of equal parts loam, peat moss, and perlite or sand is ideal for healthy root growth and optimal blooming.

Repotting

Larkspur, typically grown as a perennial, doesn't usually require repotting as it prefers to be in the garden. However, if grown in containers, it should be repotted every 2-3 years or as needed when it outgrows its current pot.

Humidity & Misting

Larkspur prefers moderate humidity levels. Excessively high humidity can lead to fungal diseases, while too low humidity might stress the plant, so maintaining average ambient humidity is best for its growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, in well-drained soil, after frost danger.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Delphinium 'Lucia Sahin', commonly known as Larkspur, begins with seed germination, which occurs in spring when soil temperatures warm up. The seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of basal leaves, followed by the rapid stem elongation. The plant enters its flowering stage in early to mid-summer, producing tall spikes adorned with blossomed flowers that can range from blue to violet. After pollination, typically by bees, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing numerous small seeds. Once the seeds are mature, they are dispersed by wind or other mechanisms, and the plant begins to senesce. If conditions are right, Larkspur can self-seed and re-emerge the following spring, continuing its perennial life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• For the Delphinium 'Lucia Sahin', commonly known as Larkspur, the most popular method of propagation is through seed germination. The best time to sow seeds is either in autumn for overwintering in cooler climates, or in late winter to early spring after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds should be scattered onto the surface of well-drained, moist soil and lightly covered with soil. Moisture is crucial for germination, so it's important to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings usually emerge within three to four weeks, at which point they can be thinned out to allow the strongest plants to develop more fully.