Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ (New Millenium Series)

Description

Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ is a spectacular perennial featuring tall, double white flower spikes tinged with green atop strong, upright stems. Growing up to 1.2m with a spread of 75cm, this cultivar is ideal for perennial borders, cutting gardens, or mixed flower beds. By following this guide, your Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ will thrive and provide stunning blooms from June to September.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ in early spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows roots to establish before the growing season, producing strong stems and prolific flowers.
• Autumn: Early autumn planting is also effective, giving your Delphinium time to settle before dormancy and encouraging vigorous growth in spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a location with full sun. Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ thrives with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential. Delphinium does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball to give Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ roots ample space.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help your Delphinium establish roots while ensuring the area drains well.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Delphinium thrives with even moisture.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly, providing moisture only if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote strong growth and vibrant flower spikes.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed encourages your Delphinium to maintain healthy stems and continuous flowering.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut stems back to ground level to prepare Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ for dormancy and encourage strong growth next season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulching protects the roots of Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ from frost and temperature fluctuations.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Tall flower spikes may need support in exposed locations. Use bamboo canes or plant supports to prevent Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ stems from bending or breaking.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Double Innocence’ is a show-stopping perennial that adds height, elegance, and colour to any garden. By planting in sunny, well-drained soil and following this care routine, your Delphinium will reward you with spectacular blooms from June to September. Incorporate this beautiful plant into borders, beds, or cutting gardens for a floral display that attracts bees and enhances your outdoor space all season long.

RHS Details

See more Delphinium from Proctors