Larkspur Delphinium 'Spindrift'

Water

Larkspur, which includes Delphinium 'Spindrift', requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water these perennials thoroughly once or twice a week to maintain damp soil, ensuring that you soak the soil to a depth of at least an inch. If the weather is particularly hot or dry, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. Always check the soil moisture by feeling the top inch; if it feels dry, it's time to water again. Be cautious to avoid overhead watering, which can lead to foliar diseases; instead, use a drip system or water at the base of the plant. Provide about 1 gallon of water per plant during each watering session.

Light

Larkspur thrives best in full sun, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in climates with hot summers, they can benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent heat stress. Place your Delphinium 'Spindrift' in a spot that gets ample morning sunlight with some protection from intense midday rays for optimal growth and flowering.

Temperature

Larkspur prefers temperate climates with cool to moderate temperature conditions. They grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and may struggle in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can tolerate a slight frost, but prolonged freezing temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental. The ideal temperature range encourages vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Pruning

Pruning your Larkspur, such as Delphinium 'Spindrift', encourages a second bloom and maintains plant health. Deadhead spent flowers promptly to stimulate new blooms. In late summer or fall, after flowering has finished, cut the plant back to ground level. Additionally, pruning can help with air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. The best time for pruning is after the first wave of blooms has faded.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Larkspur 'Spindrift' thrives in a soil mix that is rich, well-draining and slightly alkaline, with a pH around 7.0. The best mix would be composed of equal parts loam, organic compost, and a drainage-aiding component like perlite or coarse sand. Regular soil testing can help maintain the optimal pH and nutrient levels.

Repotting

Larkspur 'Spindrift' generally does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant appears to be root-bound. Doing this in early spring is ideal, just as the plant begins a new growth cycle.

Humidity & Misting

Larkspur 'Spindrift' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found in many garden environments. There is no specific humidity level requirement for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep in a sunny spot with moist soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun to part shade, in well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

Larkspur 'Spindrift', like other delphiniums, begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown and under the right conditions, germinates and sprouts into a seedling. The seedling then develops into a juvenile plant and establishes a root system and foliage through vegetative growth. As it matures, the larkspur enters the flowering stage, producing spikes of blossoms that can range in color, depending on the variety. After pollination, often by bees or butterflies, the flowers develop into fruit that contains seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. If conditions are not favorable for seed germination, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates where larkspur 'Spindrift' may die back to the ground and overwinter as a crown. In the following growing season, the plant will resume growth from the crown if it has survived the winter, thereby repeating its life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The Delphinium 'Spindrift', commonly known as Larkspur, is best propagated through seed sowing. The most appropriate time to start seeds is in late winter or early spring, while still indoors, about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. To propagate Larkspur by seed, you should first stratify the seeds, which involves chilling them to simulate winter conditions, enhancing germination rates. After stratification, sow the seeds shallowly in seed-starting formula or lightly cover them with soil in a tray or pots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature of about 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually emerge in 14 to 21 days. Once they have grown strong enough and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors to a sunny location with well-draining soil.