Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’

Description

Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ is a striking perennial known for its tall, frilly lavender-blue flower spikes with hints of pink and a distinctive white bee. Reaching a height of 1.2m with a spread of 75cm, it flowers from June to September. This hardy perennial thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil, loves full sun, and is a magnet for bees, making it an ideal choice for perennial borders and cottage-style gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ in spring once the soil has begun to warm. This allows strong root development before the first flower spikes emerge.

• Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn to give the roots time to establish before dormancy, ensuring vigorous growth the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ thrives best in full sun. Choose a spot that enjoys at least 6 hours of direct light daily for optimal flowering.

• Soil: Plant in fertile, moist, but well-drained soil. To enhance drainage and fertility, work in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth.

2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to improve structure and nutrient availability.

3. Planting: Place Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ so the crown sits level with the soil surface. Firm back gently and remove any air pockets.

4. Watering After Planting: Water well immediately after planting to settle the soil and support root establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ benefits from deep watering during dry periods to encourage tall, sturdy spikes.

• Dormant Season: Reduce watering in winter, as the plant requires only minimal moisture when dormant.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser at the base of Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ in early spring to support strong new growth.

• Mid-Summer: Feed again during peak flowering to prolong blooming and strengthen stems.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers promptly to encourage further blooms. Cutting back spent spikes often stimulates a second flush of flowers later in the season.

• Autumn Pruning: After flowering has finished, cut Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ down to ground level to prepare for winter.

Mulching

• Spring: Add a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

• Winter: Apply a thicker mulch after cutting back in autumn to protect the crown from frost and ensure a strong return the following year.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: The tall, impressive flower spikes of Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ may require staking to prevent them from bending or breaking in wind. Place stakes early in the season to avoid damaging the roots.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ is a hardy perennial that delivers breathtaking lavender-blue blossoms with a touch of pink and a striking white bee. With proper care—moist, fertile soil, regular feeding, and reliable staking—you’ll enjoy tall, frilly flower spikes from June to September. Whether planted in borders or cottage-style gardens, Delphinium ‘Morning Lights’ adds vertical drama and attracts pollinators, making it an outstanding choice for any perennial display.

RHS Details

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