Delphinium ‘Cinderella’

Description

Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ is a striking perennial known for its tall spires of double, soft-pink blooms flushed with pale green. Growing up to 1.2m tall with a spread of 60cm, it creates an elegant focal point in cottage gardens and mixed borders. Flowering from June to July, this hardy plant thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil and full sun. Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ is not only a showstopper but also attracts bees, making it a valuable addition for pollinator-friendly gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ is in spring, when the soil has started to warm. This allows roots to establish before the tall flowering spires appear in summer.
• Autumn: Alternatively, plant Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ in early autumn to give the roots time to settle before the dormant period, encouraging vigorous growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ thrives in full sun. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to promote strong stems and an abundance of blooms.
• Soil: Plant in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Adding compost or organic matter ensures your Delphinium develops healthy roots and sustains its impressive flower spikes.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth.
2. Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for added nutrients.
3. Planting: Place Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ into the hole so 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 around the roots.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, which can damage roots.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly when your Delphinium dies back, only watering if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to boost growth.
• Mid-Summer: Feed again during the flowering season to prolong blooming and keep Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ strong.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage repeat flowering and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut stems back to ground level to prepare the plant for dormancy.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Winter: A protective mulch helps shield roots from cold temperatures, ensuring Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ returns strongly in spring.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: The tall flower spikes of Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ may need staking to protect them from wind damage. Use discreet canes or supports for best results.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Cinderella’ is a stunning perennial with tall spires of soft-pink, double flowers flushed with pale green. By planting in fertile soil, providing regular water, and staking when necessary, you’ll be rewarded with strong stems, healthy foliage, and vibrant blooms year after year. Add this Delphinium to mixed borders or cottage-style gardens for a striking display that also attracts pollinators.