Delphinium ‘Galahad’ (Pacific Giant Series)

Description

Delphinium ‘Galahad’ is a stunning pacific hybrid perennial featuring tall spikes of pure white flowers from May to July. Growing up to 1.7m in height with a spread of 75cm, this hardy plant thrives in full sun with fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Its striking blooms attract bees, making it a perfect addition to perennial borders and pollinator-friendly gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Delphinium ‘Galahad’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish firmly, supporting tall, healthy flower spikes.
• Autumn: Early autumn is another option for planting. This gives the plant time to settle before dormancy, promoting vigorous growth in the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium ‘Galahad’ thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to encourage strong stems and abundant flowering.
• Soil: Plant your Delphinium in fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged conditions as these can cause root rot. Enrich the soil with organic matter like compost for optimal growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and equal to the depth of the root ball to give Delphinium ‘Galahad’ room to grow.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Position Delphinium ‘Galahad’ in the hole so 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 after planting to help roots settle. Ensure excess water drains away to avoid waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Delphinium ‘Galahad’ prefers consistent moisture. Water during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Avoid overwatering to protect the roots.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, only watering if the soil becomes overly dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to Delphinium ‘Galahad’ in early spring to support strong growth and healthy flower spikes.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed during mid-summer will encourage extended flowering and maintain plant vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers from Delphinium ‘Galahad’ to extend bloom time and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: Cut your Delphinium back to ground level after flowering has finished to prepare for dormancy and encourage strong growth the following year.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Additional mulch protects the roots from cold and prevents frost heaving, helping Delphinium ‘Galahad’ survive through winter.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Delphinium ‘Galahad’ can produce tall flower spikes that may require staking in exposed or windy locations to prevent stem breakage.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Galahad’ is a striking perennial that enhances garden borders with its pure white spikes. Plant in full sun, fertile soil, and follow this care routine to enjoy strong growth, extended flowering, and a garden that attracts bees all season long.

RHS Details

See more Delphinium from Proctors