Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’

Description

Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ is a striking perennial featuring large, semi-double creamy white flowers on upright, sturdy stems. Growing to 1.5m tall with a 60cm spread, it thrives in full sun and well-drained fertile soil. Blooming from May to July, it attracts bees and adds elegance to the back of sunny borders.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This ensures strong root establishment before flowering, promoting healthy growth.
• Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn. This allows your Delphinium to settle before winter dormancy, encouraging vigorous growth in the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium flourishes in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure optimal flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential for Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’. Avoid waterlogged areas, as excess moisture can cause root problems. Enrich soil with compost or organic matter for better growth and blooms.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball to provide enough space for Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ roots to spread.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil for fertility and drainage. Healthy soil ensures vigorous growth and vibrant flowers.
3. Planting: Position the plant in the hole, keeping the top of the root ball level with surrounding soil. Gently backfill and firm soil to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ thoroughly after planting to help roots establish and settle the soil.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Delphinium prefers moderately moist soil. Water during dry spells but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly during dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ a strong start, promoting healthy foliage and flower spikes.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding during mid-summer encourages continued flowering and maintains vigour throughout the blooming season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the blooming period and maintain a tidy appearance for Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut the plant back to ground level. This prepares your Delphinium for dormancy and supports healthier growth the following year.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.
• Winter: Mulch helps protect roots from cold and prevents frost heaving, ensuring Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ survives through winter.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ has upright, sturdy stems, but staking may be necessary in windy areas to prevent flopping and damage.

Final Tips

Delphinium elatum ‘Celebration’ is a show-stopping perennial that adds elegance to any sunny border. Plant it in fertile, well-drained soil with full sun, and follow this care routine. This Delphinium will reward you with spectacular creamy white blooms from May to July, attracting bees and enhancing your garden’s beauty.