Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’

Description

Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ is a striking perennial with large, rich deep-purple flowers on strong, well-branched stems, rising from a frilly mound of green foliage. Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens, this elegant cultivar adds height, colour, and attracts bees. Follow this guide to help your Delphinium thrive and produce stunning blooms.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ in early spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season, producing robust stems and abundant flower spikes.
• Autumn: Early autumn planting also works well, giving your Delphinium time to settle before dormancy and encouraging strong growth in spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a location with full sun. Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for maximum flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential. Delphinium does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so mix in compost or organic matter to improve drainage and soil quality.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth, giving Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ roots space to spread comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to boost fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help your Delphinium establish roots, ensuring the area drains well.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist during dry spells, but avoid overwatering. Delphinium thrives with even moisture without waterlogging.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, providing moisture only if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support strong growth and vibrant flower spikes.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed helps Delphinium maintain healthy stems and continued flowering throughout the season.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut stems back to ground level to prepare your Delphinium for dormancy and promote healthy growth next season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulching protects the roots of Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ from frost and temperature fluctuations.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Tall flower spikes may need support in windy areas. Use bamboo canes or plant supports to prevent Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ stems from bending or breaking.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Delgenius Kingsley’ is a show-stopping perennial that adds height, elegance, and vibrant colour to any garden. By planting in sunny, well-drained soil and following this care routine, your Delphinium will reward you with spectacular blooms from May to July. Incorporate this magnificent plant into borders, beds, or cutting gardens for a stunning floral display that attracts bees and enhances your outdoor space all season long.

RHS Details

See more Delphinium from Proctors