Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ (New Millenium Series)

Description

Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ is a striking perennial with tall, upright stems bearing large, rich rose-pink flowers. Reaching 1.8m in height with a 60cm spread, it flowers from June to July. Thriving in full sun or partial shade with well-drained, fertile soil, Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ is hardy and attracts pollinators, making it a standout for perennial borders.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows strong root establishment before the flowering season.
• Autumn: Planting in early autumn is also effective, giving the plant time to settle before dormancy and encouraging vigorous growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct light daily for optimal flowering.
• Soil: Plant in fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Enhance the soil with compost or organic matter to improve nutrient content and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the soil to enrich fertility and improve structure.
3. Planting: Position Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ so the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the roots establish and settle the soil.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season. Deep watering helps Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ develop strong stems and abundant flower spikes.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering in winter, supplying only enough moisture if the soil becomes overly dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy shoots and strong flowering spikes.
• Mid-Summer: Feed Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ again during flowering to maintain vigour and prolong bloom.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to encourage further blooms and maintain a neat appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering, cut Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ back to ground level to prepare for dormancy and support healthy regrowth.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Add a thicker mulch layer after cutting back to protect the crown from frost and ensure a strong return next season.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: The tall flower spikes of Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ benefit from staking to prevent bending or breakage. Place supports early to avoid disturbing the roots.

Final Tips

Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ is a hardy, pollinator-friendly perennial that delivers striking rose-pink flower spikes. With fertile soil, regular watering, and proper staking, it provides impressive blooms from June to July. Perfect for sunny or partially shaded perennial borders, Delphinium ‘Sweethearts’ adds height, colour, and garden drama year after year.