Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ (Pacific Giant Series)

Description

Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ is a pacific hybrid perennial with tall spikes of mid-blue flowers featuring a white bee. Growing up to 1.7m high with a 75cm spread, it blooms from May to July. Hardy and bee-friendly, Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ thrives in full sun with fertile, moist, well-drained soil, making it a striking addition to perennial borders.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This encourages strong root establishment before flowering.

• Autumn: Early autumn planting is also suitable, allowing the crown to settle before dormancy and encouraging vigorous growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ thrives in full sun to promote tall, strong flower spikes but tolerates partial shade.

• Soil: Ensure soil is fertile, moist, and well-drained. Incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and nutrient content.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal in depth.

2. Soil Preparation: Mix in compost or well-rotted organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.

3. Planting: Place the plant into the hole with the crown level to the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm to remove air pockets.

4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep soil evenly moist to support the tall, sturdy flower spikes of your Delphinium. Avoid overwatering to prevent root problems.

• Dormant Season: Reduce watering in winter, only providing moisture if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ a strong start, supporting robust growth and vibrant blooms.

• Mid-Summer: Feed again during flowering to maintain vigour and prolong bloom duration.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming and keep your Delphinium looking tidy.

• Autumn Pruning: After flowering, cut back to ground level to prepare the plant for dormancy and ensure healthy regrowth.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

• Winter: After pruning, add a thicker mulch layer to protect the crown and encourage strong regrowth in the next season.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ has tall stems that benefit from staking to prevent bending or breaking. Install supports early in the season.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ is a hardy, pollinator-friendly perennial that produces elegant mid-blue spikes, adding height and charm to any border. With full sun, fertile soil, consistent watering, and staking, Delphinium ‘Blue Bird’ will reward your garden with stunning blooms from May to July, making it a must-have for striking perennial displays.

RHS Details

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