Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’

Description

Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’ is a striking perennial producing spires of double gentian-blue flowers with contrasting white bees. Growing to 60–80 cm tall, it is compact yet bold, ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator-friendly planting schemes. With sturdy stems and vibrant blooms in May and June, this hardy perennial thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soil and full sun.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant your Delphinium is in spring, giving the roots time to establish before the flowering season.
• Autumn: Planting in early autumn also works well, allowing the plant to settle before dormancy and ensuring strong growth in the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’ thrives in full sun, which promotes robust stems and abundant flowering.
• Soil: Choose fertile, moist, but well-drained soil. Adding organic matter such as compost will improve structure and encourage healthy growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil for added fertility.
3. Planting: Place your Delphinium in the hole, keeping the crown level with the surrounding soil. Firm the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots establish.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Delphinium performs best when not allowed to dry out completely.
• Dormant Season: Water sparingly once the plant has died back, only if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to promote strong early growth.
• Mid-Summer: Feed again during peak flowering to support vibrant, long-lasting blooms from Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes promptly to encourage additional blooms and maintain a neat appearance.
• Autumn Cutback: Cut the plant back to ground level once flowering has finished, preparing Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’ for dormancy.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the plant base to retain soil moisture, enrich the soil, and suppress weeds.
• Winter: A protective layer of mulch also helps shield the roots from frost and promotes strong regrowth the following year.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Although Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’ has stable stems, staking may be useful to support its tall flower spikes and protect them from strong winds. Place supports early in the season for best results.

Final Tips

Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Blue’ is a hardy and compact perennial that brings dramatic colour and structure to garden borders. With proper planting, regular feeding, and consistent watering, this variety rewards gardeners with dazzling gentian-blue blooms each year. Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly planting schemes as well as ornamental displays.

 

RHS Details

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