Granny’s Bonnet. A compact perennial with eye catching, nodding, chocolate-brown flowers in late spring and early summer above fern-like, mid-green leaves. Height 30cm. Spread 20cm. Flowers May to July. Full sun/part shade. Hardy.
Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is a striking perennial that brings a unique touch to your garden. With its dark, chocolate-coloured flowers accented by lime-green hues, this cultivar adds visual interest and beauty to any landscape. Follow this planting guide to ensure your Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ thrives in your garden year after year.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is in early spring when the soil has warmed up. Planting in spring gives the roots time to establish before the growing season begins, ensuring healthy and vigorous plants.
Autumn: You can also plant in the early autumn months. This allows the plant to settle in before the colder months, ensuring it’s well-established by the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ thrives in partial to full sun. Ideally, choose a spot where the plant will receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight each day. However, it will also tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained, as Aquilegia prefers soil that is neither too wet nor too dry. Rich, loamy soil will promote the best growth. You can amend your soil with compost to improve its fertility and drainage, helping the plant to establish a strong root system.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of your Aquilegia. This gives the roots plenty of space to spread and grow.
Soil Preparation: Mix organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting. This will enhance soil fertility and improve drainage, providing an ideal environment for your Aquilegia.
Planting: Place the plant into the prepared hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle around the roots. Ensure that the area drains well, as Aquilegia does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is relatively drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Aquilegia requires very little moisture during the winter months, so ensure the soil remains relatively dry.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to support new growth. This will give Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ a strong start and help it produce vibrant blooms.
Mid-Summer: If your plant looks like it needs a boost, a light application of fertiliser in mid-summer can encourage continued growth and flowering.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from your Aquilegia. This practice not only tidies the plant but also encourages new blooms, prolonging the flowering period.
Autumn Pruning: After the blooming season, trim back the stems to the ground. This helps prepare the plant for dormancy and encourages healthy growth in the following year.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your Aquilegia. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, promoting healthy growth.
Winter: In colder months, add a thicker layer of mulch to protect the roots from frost. This ensures that your plant survives the winter and is ready to grow again when spring arrives.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Typically, Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ has a compact growth habit and does not require staking. However, if grown in a windy location, you might want to use a light stake to prevent any damage to the stems.
Final Tips
Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is a stunning perennial that adds depth and beauty to any garden with its unique flower colours. By selecting the right site, planting in well-drained soil, and following a thoughtful care routine, your Aquilegia will flourish year after year. Whether you plant it in full sun or partial shade, this cultivar will reward you with its elegant, chocolate-hued flowers that bloom during late spring and early summer.
Incorporate Aquilegia viridiflora ‘Chocolate Soldier’ into your garden to enjoy its distinctive beauty, and watch as it becomes a standout feature in your outdoor space. With minimal maintenance and its striking appearance, this perennial is sure to make an impact in any garden design.
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