Delphinium 'Pacific Giants' Delphinium Pacific hybrids

Water

Larkspur, commonly known as Delphinium Pacific hybrids, requires consistent moisture and should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. Provide an inch of water each week, equivalent to about 0.623 gallons per square foot, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry spells, water larkspurs more frequently. Make sure the water reaches the roots by using a soaker hose or watering at the base of the plant to prevent wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Light

Larkspurs thrive best in full sunlight with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in warmer climates, they benefit from light afternoon shade to protect them from the intense heat. Ensure your larkspurs are planted in a spot that captures morning sunlight, which is less harsh than the afternoon sun.

Temperature

Larkspurs perform well in cooler temperatures and can handle a minimum temperature of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for these flowers is between 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can survive brief periods of higher temperatures if properly watered and shaded. They are not tolerant of extreme heat, and temperatures consistently above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental to their health.

Pruning

Pruning larkspurs is crucial for maintaining their health and encouraging a second bloom. Prune spent flowers immediately after the first bloom to promote a second flowering. Cut back the flower stalks to just above a set of leaves or a new shoot. Pruning should take place in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant for the upcoming season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Larkspur thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. A mix of garden loam, compost, and a bit of sand or perlite is ideal to provide nutrients and proper drainage.

Repotting

Larkspur, being a perennial, generally doesn't require frequent repotting. It can be left undisturbed for several years unless the plant outgrows its container or the soil degrades.

Humidity & Misting

Larkspur prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to the typical humidity found outdoors, which can vary significantly with the weather.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and adequate space for growth.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, fertile soil, provide space, and stake tall species.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

Larkspur Pacific hybrids begin life as seeds that require cold stratification to break dormancy and germinate. Upon sowing and initial watering, the seeds sprout and develop into seedlings with a set of true leaves vital for photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, producing elongated stalks, feathery foliage, and preparing for the development of floral spikes. The blooming phase follows, displaying tall spikes of intense blue, violet, or white flowers, which are key for attracting pollinators and ensuring reproductive success. After pollination, the flowers give way to seed pods which eventually dry and release seeds for propagation. The plant may die back after seeding, particularly in colder climates, but can also survive through perennial growth in milder regions, recommencing the cycle in the following growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Delphinium, often known as larkspur, is by seed. The best time to propagate by seed is in spring after the danger of frost has passed, or indoors before the last frost date. To do so, gardeners should sow seeds thinly onto the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix. For best results, the seeds need light to germinate, so they shouldn't be covered with soil but can be gently pressed into the mix for good contact. Maintaining a temperature around 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 to 24 degrees Celsius) and keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged can help ensure successful germination, which typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, usually when they have a couple true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots and eventually to their final position in the garden. Thin them out to the strongest plantlets, and harden them off before planting outdoors to acclimate them to the conditions in your garden.