Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’

Description

Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’ is a striking perennial known for its vibrant orange and yellow flowers that resemble a warm sunset. This hardy and low-maintenance plant thrives in both garden beds and containers. Follow this comprehensive planting and care guide to ensure your Aquilegia flourishes with stunning blooms from late spring through summer.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The optimal time to plant your Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’ is in early spring when the soil has warmed up. This gives the roots time to establish before the growing season, ensuring strong growth and abundant flowers.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn allows the plant to settle before dormancy, encouraging robust growth in the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Aquilegia thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flower production. In hotter climates, partial shade can protect the plant from excessive heat.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Aquilegia. This plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Enrich the soil with organic matter like compost to improve fertility and drainage, helping prevent root rot and supporting healthy plant growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. This provides ample space for the roots of your Aquilegia to spread and establish.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’ thrives in nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the prepared hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it down to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Ensure the area drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Aquilegia is moderately drought-tolerant. Water the plant during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to root issues.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as Aquilegia requires minimal moisture in winter.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and vibrant blooms. This will provide your Aquilegia with the nutrients it needs for a strong start to the growing season.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding of high-potassium fertiliser in mid-summer will help encourage continued flowering and maintain the plant’s overall health and vigour throughout the blooming season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and prolong the flowering period of Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’. Deadheading will also help keep the plant tidy and promote better air circulation.
• Autumn Pruning: Once the flowering season ends, cut back the foliage to ground level. This prepares the plant for winter dormancy and promotes healthier growth in the coming spring.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of  your Aquilegia to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching helps protect the plant from temperature extremes.
• Winter: In colder climates, add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and prevent frost heaving.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’ has a strong growth habit but may benefit from staking in windy or exposed locations. If needed, use stakes to support the plant and prevent it from toppling over, especially during storms or heavy rainfall.

Final Tips

Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’ is a beautiful and low-maintenance perennial that can brighten up any garden with its vibrant flowers. By following this planting and care guide, your Aquilegia skinneri ‘Tequila Sunrise’ will reward you with striking blooms from late spring to summer. Ensure it is planted in well-drained soil, receives adequate sunlight, and is watered correctly for the best results. With proper care, this stunning plant will enhance your garden for years to come.

 

RHS Details

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