Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’

Description

Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’ is a striking perennial with purple-black flowers and contrasting white centres. Its unique beauty makes it an excellent addition to cottage gardens, mixed borders, or even as a cut flower. This guide will help you plant and care for Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’ to achieve a flourishing display.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’ is in spring. This ensures the roots establish well before the blooming season, promoting strong growth and vibrant flowers.
• Autumn: Planting in early autumn allows the plant to settle in before dormancy, resulting in vigorous development the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location with at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth.
• Soil: For the best results, plant in fertile, moist, and well-drained soil. Add organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and nutrition.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Area: Clear the site of weeds and debris. Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’.
2. Amend the Soil: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Positioning: Place the plant in the hole so that the crown sits level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and support root establishment.

Watering Needs

• During the growing season, Aquilegia benefits from consistent moisture. Water when the topsoil feels dry, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
• Reduce watering during dormancy, as the plant requires minimal moisture during this time.

Feeding and Fertilisation

• Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage lush foliage and flower production.
• Mid-Season Boost: A second, light application of fertiliser during the growing season can promote prolonged blooming.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period and keep Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’ looking tidy.
• End-of-Season Cutback: After flowering has ceased, cut back the foliage to ground level to prepare the plant for winter dormancy.

Mulching

• Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or leaf mould, around the base of your Aquilegia. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.
• Refresh the mulch in late autumn to provide added insulation for the roots during colder months.

Supporting the Plant

• Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’ typically grows upright to a height of around 75 cm. In exposed areas, consider staking to provide additional support against wind.

Final Tips

To maximise the beauty of Aquilegia vulgaris ‘William Guinness’, plant in groups for a dramatic display of its dark purple blooms with contrasting white centres. Ensure regular deadheading to extend flowering from late spring to early summer. With proper care, Aquilegia will become a highlight of your garden season after season.

 

RHS Details

See more Aquilegia from Proctors