Very pretty, free-flowering mixture in a wide range of vibrant colours in early summer. Flowers rise elegantly on strong stems over delicate lacey foliage. Height and Spread 60cm. Full sun/partial shade. Hardy.
Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’, also known as columbine, is a stunning perennial that adds vibrant colour and texture to any garden. With its striking, multi-coloured flowers and delicate foliage, Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ thrives in a variety of growing conditions. Follow this comprehensive planting guide to ensure your Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ flourishes and provides a beautiful display year after year.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring Planting: The best time to plant Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ is in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. Planting in spring allows the roots to become established before the growing season, ensuring strong growth and an abundant display of blooms.
Autumn Planting: Alternatively, planting in early autumn is also ideal. This gives the plant time to settle into the soil before winter, encouraging vigorous growth in the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ thrives in partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. A location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is perfect for this plant. Ensure that the spot provides some shelter from the hottest afternoon rays to prevent the delicate flowers from wilting.
Soil: Aquilegia prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is not fussy about soil types, but it performs best in soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Adding compost to the soil will help improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball of your Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ and the same depth. This provides enough space for the roots to spread out and establish themselves.
Soil Preparation: Incorporate organic compost into the soil to improve drainage and fertility. Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ benefits from rich soil, which encourages vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Planting: Place the plant into the hole, ensuring that the crown (where the stem meets the roots) is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently with soil, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not soggy, as Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ is susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ is moderately drought-tolerant. However, it will benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but avoid letting it dry out completely.
Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Water only if the soil becomes dry to a depth of several inches, as the plant requires little moisture when it is not actively growing.
Feeding
Spring Fertilisation: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to kickstart the growing season. This will help your Aquilegia grow strong and produce an abundance of flowers.
Mid-Season Feeding: A light application of fertiliser in mid-summer can encourage continued blooming and support healthy foliage growth. Avoid over-fertilising, as excessive nutrients can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Deadheading: To encourage prolonged flowering, regularly deadhead your Aquilegia by removing spent flowers. This will promote new blooms and prevent the plant from using energy to produce seeds.
Autumn Pruning: After the last blooms fade in autumn, cut back the plant to ground level. This helps prepare it for winter dormancy and encourages fresh growth in the spring.
Mulching
Spring Mulching: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant in spring. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature during the growing season.
Winter Mulching: In colder climates, mulch around the plant in late autumn to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Use materials like straw, leaves, or bark chips for the best protection.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: While Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ typically has sturdy stems, it may benefit from light staking in windy locations, especially if grown to its full height. Use soft ties to secure the plant gently to avoid damaging the stems.
Final Tips
Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ is a low-maintenance perennial that rewards gardeners with stunning, unique flowers each spring. By planting in well-drained, fertile soil, providing moderate water, and applying basic care practices, your Aquilegia will thrive for years to come. This plant is perfect for adding a splash of colour to borders, woodland gardens, or containers. Enjoy the beauty of Aquilegia ‘Mckana Hybrids’ as it attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, making it a lovely addition to any garden space.
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Deborah N. (verified owner) –