Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’

Description

Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ is a tall, hardy perennial that produces impressive spikes of rose-coloured flowers with a striking white eye. Growing up to 1.5m in height with a spread of 90cm, this variety flowers in June and July, bringing dramatic vertical colour to borders. Perfect for sunny garden positions, Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil and is a magnet for pollinators.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ in spring when the soil is beginning to warm. This allows the roots to establish ahead of the flowering season.
• Autumn: Planting in early autumn also works well, giving the crown time to settle before dormancy and encouraging vigorous growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ grows best in full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct light daily for strong spikes and vibrant flowers.
• Soil: Choose fertile, moist, but well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the planting area.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal in depth.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the soil to improve fertility and structure.
3. Planting: Position the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface, then gently backfill and firm into place.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and encourage strong establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season. Deep watering during dry spells helps Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ maintain tall, sturdy stems.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in winter, only adding moisture if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support strong growth and healthy spikes.
• Mid-Summer: Feed your Delphinium again during flowering to prolong its performance and boost colour intensity.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove faded flower spikes promptly to encourage additional blooms and keep the plant tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: Once flowering has ended, cut back to ground level to prepare it for winter dormancy.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base in spring to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain soil temperature.
• Winter: After cutting back, mulch again to protect the crown and ensure reliable regrowth the following season.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: The tall spikes of Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ benefit from staking to prevent damage from wind or heavy rainfall. Add stakes early in the season to avoid disturbing the roots.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ is a hardy perennial that combines height, colour, and pollinator-friendly blooms. With fertile soil, consistent watering, and staking for support, it will reward you with magnificent rose-pink flowers in early summer. Perfect for cottage-style or mixed perennial borders, Delphinium ‘Strawberry Fair’ is a standout addition to any garden display.