Larkspur Delphinium 'Tiddles'

Water

Larkspur requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water to a depth of at least 1 inch per week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase watering frequency but always check the soil moisture first to prevent overwatering. Be sure to water early in the day so leaves have time to dry out, as larkspur is susceptible to fungal diseases if left too wet.

Light

Larkspur thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flower production. The best spot for larkspur is in an area that enjoys bright, unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, which also helps keep the stems strong and prevent them from flopping.

Temperature

Larkspur prefers moderate temperatures and can grow in a range between 50°F and 75°F, with the ideal being 60°F to 70°F for best growth. It can survive short periods of colder weather down to about 40°F, but sustained temperatures below this can be damaging. Likewise, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85°F can also negatively impact the plant's health and blooming cycle.

Pruning

Regular pruning of larkspur encourages good air circulation and can prevent disease. Deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming and cut back the entire stalk once all the flowers have faded to encourage a second flush of growth. The best time for pruning is immediately after the first flush of blooms fades, typically in midsummer.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Larkspur 'Tiddles' prefers a soil mix with good drainage, high in organic matter, such as a blend of loamy soil, compost, and a small amount of sand. The ideal pH range for this plant is neutral to slightly alkaline, around 6.5 to 7.5. To ensure robust growth, incorporate compost into the soil before planting and consider adding a slow release fertilizer.

Repotting

Larkspur 'Tiddles' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is often grown as an annual or biennial. However, if grown as a perennial, repotting every 2 to 3 years in the spring can refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Larkspur 'Tiddles' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require highly controlled conditions. It performs best in outdoor humidity conditions typical of temperate climates rather than excessively humid or dry environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow larkspur 'Tiddles' in well-lit spot, cool temperature, moderate moisture.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

Delphinium 'Tiddles', commonly known as a dwarf larkspur, begins its life as a seed that, when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and given adequate light and moisture, will germinate typically in the spring. Seedlings emerge and develop a basal rosette of leaves from which, by late spring to early summer, a flowering spike will grow, showcasing the plant's distinct blue or purple flowers. After pollination, often by bees that are attracted to the nectar and color of the blooms, the plant produces fruit, which is a follicle containing seeds. Once the seeds mature, they are dispersed by wind or other means, allowing for the potential colonization of new areas. The parent plant may die back after flowering, retreating to the ground level, where the root system remains dormant through the winter. In the following growing season, the cycle repeats as new shoots emerge from the surviving root system, leading to the perennial growth pattern of Delphinium 'Tiddles'.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Delphinium 'Tiddles', commonly known as Larkspur, is typically propagated through seed. The optimal time for sowing Larkspur seeds is in the late winter to early spring, ensuring the soil temperature is cool but not frozen. To propagate, seeds should be scattered over well-draining soil and covered lightly with soil or compost, as they need darkness to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and with patience, the seeds will germinate, usually within 2 to 3 weeks, after which they can gradually be exposed to more sunlight and eventually be transplanted to their final growing position. This method harnesses the plant's natural reproductive cycle and is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness.