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Delphiniums - Wendy et al HELP

Anonymous's picture
Anonymous

I bought some delphiniums last year but need to move them - I don't know what kind of light and moisture conditions they require. I have beds on every side of my house (but those that get morning light only are very dry). What does a delphinium need to be happy?

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WENDYRECYCLER's picture
WENDYRECYCLER

I'm sure, by now, you realize I'm answering these backward..
Your delphs should be poking up out of the ground by now. Too much wet can induce rot in these fellows as well. All the books say Full Sun - but I've seen some OLD delphs happy in a mostly shady site. [Full sun means 5 - 6 + hrs / day]
Make sure your soil is healthy by adding in some organic matter - always a good idea before planting. Consider strong winds when you're siting as well. Staking is always a pain - but neccessary with these guys. I like to use a medium sized tomato cage. Place it right over the emerging foliage and bury it to the first rung well before serious new growth starts. Within a few weeks, you won't be able to see the support at all.
When your delph has finished it's first bloom cycle, cut down the flowerstalks almost to the ground. Fresh, new growth will start up again and you should get another flush of hearty blooms by Septemberish. If you want to collect seed, do so from the second flush - otherwise you won't be able to trim the plant early enough for it's second bloom.

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