Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’

Description

Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ is an elegant perennial forming a low mound of deeply-cut green leaves, topped with tall spikes of double, satiny lavender-blue flowers. Reaching 1m in height and 80cm in spread, it thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil, attracting bees from May to July.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish before flowering, promoting strong, healthy growth.
• Autumn: Early autumn planting is also suitable, giving your Delphinium time to settle in before dormancy, encouraging vigorous growth the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maximise flower production.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Delphinium. Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot, and incorporate organic matter like compost 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 provide ample space for root growth.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage. Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ benefits from nutrient-rich soil for vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place the plant into the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help your Delphinium settle and establish strong roots. Ensure the area drains well.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ prefers soil that dries slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root issues.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, only providing water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to give your Delphinium a strong start to the season, supporting healthy growth and flower production.
• Mid-Summer: A light mid-summer feed can encourage continued flowering and maintain the plant’s vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the blooming period and keep Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering, cut the plant back to ground level to prepare for dormancy and promote healthier growth the next year.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic materials like bark chips or compost work best.
• Winter: Mulch protects roots from cold and prevents frost heaving, helping your Delphinium survive through winter.

Supporting the Plant

Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ has strong stems, but in exposed areas, consider staking to prevent damage from wind.

Final Tips

Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian Lavender’ is a stunning addition to sunny borders, offering elegant spikes of lavender-blue flowers and attracting bees. By planting in full sun, well-drained soil, and following this care routine, this Delphinium will reward you with vibrant blooms throughout the season.

 

RHS Details

See more Delphinium from Proctors