Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’

Description

“Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ is a perennial described by its original product details as follows: An elegant perennial which forms a low mound of deeply-cut green leaves, bearing tall spikes of spectacular soft-lemon flowers on strong stems. Height 60cm. Spread 45cm. Flowers May to July. Full sun. Fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Hardy. Attracts bees.

PLANTING AND AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ is in spring, when the soil is workable and beginning to warm. This helps the roots establish before active growth begins.
• Early Autumn: Alternatively, early autumn planting allows the root system to settle before dormancy, encouraging stronger performance the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position in full sun.
• Soil: Choose well-drained soil. Incorporating compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting will help improve structure and fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the excavated soil where appropriate.
3. Planting: Set the plant with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, then backfill gently and firm lightly.
4. Watering After Planting: Water Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water regularly during the first growing season and keep the soil from drying out for long periods, particularly during warm or dry weather. This will help Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ establish and maintain healthy growth.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering as growth slows, while avoiding prolonged waterlogging around the root system.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser as new growth begins, following the manufacturer’s recommended rate. This will help Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ support healthy foliage and seasonal growth.
• Mid-Season: Where growth appears to need a boost, a light supplementary feed can be applied without overfeeding.

Pruning

• Deadheading and Tidying: Remove faded flowers and tired or damaged growth as required to keep the plant neat and encourage a healthy display.
• Seasonal Care: Regular maintenance will help Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ remain tidy and vigorous.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil structure.
• Later in the Year: Keep mulch clear of the crown or main stems and avoid trapping excessive moisture directly around the plant.

Supporting the Plant

• Natural Habit: The plant should generally remain self-supporting, although nearby planting can provide useful shelter in exposed positions.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Sherbet Lemon’ will perform best when its light, soil and moisture requirements are matched to the original product details above. Give the plant sufficient room to develop naturally, monitor watering during dry periods and carry out simple seasonal maintenance to keep it healthy and attractive.”

RHS Details

See more Delphinium from Proctors