How to grow and care for larkspur?
Simply enjoy them in your garden or cut flowers to bring into your home. They can tolerate most soils, but if you want the best results, go for light, well-draining soil. If your area has heavy soils, you can amend them with compost or manure. Larkspur plants grow well in full sun, as long as the soil is slightly moist.
Why is my Larkspur not blooming?
If they remain too dry for too long, plants can become stunted and have poor bud set, so you may miss out on blooms. For the best blooms, plant larkspur in full sun.
What is the best time of year to plant Larkspur seeds?
Larkspurs are among the easiest annuals to grow. Sow them in the garden in early spring – or fall in warm climates. They tolerate most soils, but grow best in light, well-draining soil.
When does Larkspur Bloom?
In early spring, the plant will grow new green leaves and emerge strong and tall, blooming through mid-spring, and into early summer for a repeat show with regular deadheading. As you might guess from its wild origins, larkspur can thrive in a wide soil pH range, but anything between 5.7 and 7.0 is ideal.
Can larkspur grow in shade?
Larkspur plants grow their best in full sun to partial shade. They are very easy to grow and grow rapidly. The plants do well in average soils and cool weather.
Does larkspur prefer sun or shade?
full sunLarkspurs prefer rich, moist well-drained soil and thrive in full sun to partial shade. Dwarf-sized plants are used in borders, garden beds and containers. Taller varieties are often used as cut flowers and dried arrangements. This herbaceous perennial is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Do larkspur come back every year?
Larkspur produces lovely spikes of blue, purple, pink, or white flowers in spring and summer. They look best clustered in small patches. Like many cool-season annuals, it's a good winter-blooming plant for the Deep South. Larkspur is so easy to grow that it often self seeds in the garden, coming back year after year.
Where does larkspur grow best?
Larkspur plants grow well in full sun, as long as the soil is slightly moist. They need less moisture than delphiniums, but they don't bloom well in hot and dry conditions.
What's the difference between larkspur and delphinium?
Delphinium tends to be a perennial species, whereas larkspur is an annual. Foliage of larkspur is finer textured than delphinium. When it comes to blooms, delphinium flowers are densely born on spikes while individual blossoms tend to be much larger than larkspur.
Do you deadhead larkspur?
Deadhead any dead blossoms and prune your larkspur plants to encourage blooming. Cutting the flowers and using them for arrangements will promote plant growth.
Will larkspur bloom all summer?
Flowers will bloom through early fall until the first frost. Fall seeded larkspur will grow through the fall and remain green until the coldest weather of winter when they will lose their color and go dormant.
Do hummingbirds like larkspur?
The hummingbirds in my area have especially enjoyed the Larkspur. They seem to fly for it before many other flowers. Larkspur is very easy to grow from seed using the Winter Sowing method or spread the seeds in Fall. Keep Larkspur dead-headed so they continue to bloom.
What to do with larkspur after it blooms?
Harvesting. Larkspurs make wonderful cut flowers. As flowers fade, snip them off with scissors to keep the plants looking neat.
When should you plant larkspur?
SOWING: Direct seed (recommended) - ¼" deep (darkness is required for germination) in early spring for summer bloom or in fall for bloom the following year. Seeds do not germinate well when soil temperatures are above 55°F (13°C).
Is larkspur cut and come again?
Larkspur is not considered to be a cut and come again type flower. It is a medium producer and will produce more than one stem per plant.
How often should I water larkspur?
Provide support when they are young, with a stake that can accommodate the potential 6 to 8 foot (2 m.) growth. These plants will also require occasional watering during periods of drought. Growing larkspur flowers centered in containers can be part of an eye-catching display.
How long does it take for larkspur to flower?
Some varieties of larkspur will flower in less than a month, but most take close to three months.
Where does the Larkspur flower grow?
Larkspur, or Delphiniums, is a perennial plant native to the Northern Hemisphere but can be found in North America's southern states.
How to water larkspur?
Larkspur is a perennial, so it needs to be watered for the entire year.
How to prune larkspur?
The main rule of pruning larkspur is to cut back the plant's stems, removing some or all of them.
Conclusion
Growing larkspur plants can be a rewarding experience when you are successful.
What is the best way to plant a larkspur?
The foliage of larkspur is a great addition to the plant (and the garden!). Light, airy foliage lends a soft fern-like effect. It also helps plants blend in the garden, making larkspur extremely versatile when paired with other plants. When planting larkspur, make sure you choose well-drained soil.
Can larkspurs bloom in full sun?
Related: Deadheading for Extended Bloom. For the best blooms, plant larkspur in full sun. Although plants can handle a small amount of shade, they are more likely to flop and require stakes.
Is larkspur a hard color?
Blue is a hard to find color in the flower world, and larkspur has it in spades. You can find these blooms in both single and double varieties. Some varieties feature numerous petals that create a pom-pom effect. Plants will bloom longer if you remove old blossoms.
Is Delphinium the same as Larkspur?
A very close relative of larkspur, delphinium looks almost identical in many aspects, but a few differences set these two plants apart. Delphinium tends to be a perennial species, whereas larkspur is an annual. Foliage of larkspur is finer textured than delphinium. When it comes to blooms, delphinium flowers are densely born on spikes while individual blossoms tend to be much larger than larkspur. With those few exceptions, general plant care and maintenance is basically the same.
Plant History
Although the larkspur is a poisonous plant, it has been used for medicinal purposes.
Propagation
Larkspurs add splashes of color to empty spaces in no time. These rapid growers mature in just a few months, which can make propagating slightly challenging. The best way to propagate this spring beauty is from seed.
Planting
Depending on what hardiness zone you live in, larkspur can be planted either in the spring or fall.
How to Grow
Larkspurs are easy-going plants that don’t require a lot of fuss to flourish. Most times they’ll happily root themselves, growing and maturing quickly. However, there are still several care tips to follow and important factors to consider when growing these plants. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know when growing Larkspurs.
Harvesting
After the flowering season is over, the seeds can be harvested for propagation.
Pests and Diseases
These easy-going, fast-growing plants are generally worry-free, only needing heavy maintenance at the end of the season. Larkspurs are also drought and deer-resistant. However, there are a few diseases and pests to look out for that are usually easy to prevent and manage.
Frequently Asked Questions
As an annual, Larkspurs grow best in USDA zones 2-11. This wide range of climates makes the larkspur a versatile plant that can thrive in many conditions.
Why are larkspurs so hard to grow?
Delphiniums are more difficult to grow from seed, which is why—due to confusion between the plants —larkspurs' reputation for being tough to grow may be exaggerated. Consolida, by the way, is Latin for "consolidate" or "make firm.". Compounds from larkspur were once used as a blood clotting agent and healing salve.
How to grow larkspur from seed?
it's not as difficult as you've heard! Prep your garden site by digging in some 10-10-10 or other balanced fertilizer to give your larkspur some extra kaboom, or add some well-rotted compost to your larkspur beds. We recommend direct-sowing your larkspur seeds since they're not easily transplanted ...
How tall do larkspur racemes grow?
The racemes grow up to a foot in height from stalks that may fork into 2 to 4 branches. This plant is tougher than it looks, being moderately frost-tolerant in warmer climates. USDA Hardiness Zones: Larkspur is suitable for zones 2 to 10. Grow larkspur in zone 10 in Larkspur, California, or in Larkspur, Colorado (5b).
What do larkspurs look like?
Larkspurs look like they've had brightly-dyed aster-type blossoms pinned to their stalks. Flower shapes vary. Some closely resemble dyed daisies, while others, like those on rocket larkspur, look like tiny orchids against five delicate, crepe-thin, color-matched sepals.
What color are rocket larkspurs?
They can be white, pink, violet, or blue, and some larkspur blooms are double-layered with a fluffy, ruffly appearance. As we mentioned, rocket larkspur has inch-long pedicels (spurs) behind their 2" flower heads. The flowers are specialized to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators with a long reach.
How tall is a larkspur?
Plant Height: 24" to 48" tall. Plant Width: 12" to 18" spread. Bloom Period: Early June through mid-September in cooler zones; in hotter zones, they generally finish at the peak of summer. Pests & Diseases: Due to its purported pest-repelling qualities, it's no surprise that larkspur is resilient to insects.
Where do rockets come from?
Larkspur has easily naturalized throughout the world, and it's widely believed to hail from Asia, the Middle East, and Mediterranean Europe.
Why is it so hard to plant larkspur?
They’re the birth flower of July, so keep this in mind the next time someone has a birthday! Planting larkspur can be quite difficult because the seeds need a cold period before being sown – and because these toxic beauties can be dangerous!
How tall is a larkspur?
Larkspur flowers stand tall – almost 1.8 metres tall – in any garden and are often grown along a fence or using a stake to prevent them from falling over. Planting other tall plants around them can offer some support and structure if needed. The following plants work well with the larkspur flower: Sunflower. Hollyhock.
What is a larkspur poultice?
Larkspur poultices – basically a gooey porridge made from the plant – was used to treat haemorrhoids and open wounds. Native Americans also used the flowers to create a dye and repel insects. Like some gemstones, this flower is believed to have protective properties.
What does the larkspur flower represent?
The larkspur flower is said to represent love. It also signifies positivity, attachment to someone and an open heart. The colour of the larkspur plays a role in further unpacking the symbolism of the plant. The pink flower is a symbol of contrariness, while the blue represents grace and dignity.
What are the pests that larkspurs are susceptible to?
Keeping Pests Away. As with most plants, the larkspur flower is susceptible to root rot, mildew, slugs, and snails. Snail traps can deter the slimy creatures, although when it comes to infected plants, treat them wherever possible. If they cannot be saved, remove and discard them to prevent the virus from spreading.
Why are larkspurs horn shaped?
The plant’s horn-shaped flowers were said to repel scorpions, thieves, ghosts, and evil spirits. Dried out larkspurs were often hung around homes for protection.
How tall is Sublime Larkspur?
It’s available in a wide range of colours and grows to be almost 1.2 metres tall.
Planting Larkspur
Larkspurs like well draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For the best blooms, choose an area that gets full sun. Larkspurs can grow very tall and may need staking to support its heavy blooms. This plant self-sows by dropping seeds and will return the following season. If not properly monitored, Larkspur can take over a garden.
Watering Larkspur
Larkspur is a fast growing flower and grows best in cooler weather. Typically, delphiniums need regular watering and should not be left to grow in dry soil. Continued moist soil will aid in faster growth. Adding a 2 inch layer of mulch will help to retain the moisture in the soil. During dry periods, water once or twice a week.
Fertilizing Larkspur
Larkspur is a fast growing plant with multiple blooms. Because of this, they are heavy feeders. Prior to planting, mix a general purpose fertilizer into the soil. Once the roots are established, fertilize again. After that, fertilize once a month with a balanced 10-10-10 (NPK) fertilizer until the blooms open.
Pruning Larkspur
Larkspurs can benefit from a light pruning each season. Light pruning keeps the plant attractive and encourages a second bloom. Remove wilted stalks by cutting when ⅔ of the blooms have wilted. You can also deadhead spent blooms to prevent the plant from forming seeds. If you would like your Larkspur to reseed, the refrain from deadheading.
Caring For Larkspur in Pots
It is best to choose a compact variety of Larkspur to grow in a container or pot. Choose a sturdy pot that will not fall over from the weight and height of the stalks of flowers. Plants grown in containers tend to dry out more quickly. With Larkspur, it is important to keep the soil continually moist but not soggy.
Winter Care for Larkspur
As winter approaches, continue to water the plant regularly until the ground freezes. This gives the roots a chance to store water for the cold weather months. After fall flowering, cut the plant to the basal leaves, leaving the foliage in place. Mulch around the plant to help preserve moisture and insulate the roots.
Common Larkspur Care Questions
Delphinium and larkspur, while very closely related, and very similar in appearance, are not the same thing. Delphinium tends to be perennial and larkspur annual, and both are toxic to both humans and livestock.
How to get a larkspur to grow new spires?
Like deadheading, this will encourage the larkspur to grow new spires. If you’d like the larkspur to reseed itself, let the flowers go to seed toward the end of the summer. After the seed pods open and drop their seeds, remove all dead vegetation from the flower bed.
How to propagate larkspur?
Because it’s an annual that matures in just 77-84 days, the best way to propagate larkspur is from seed. Though the same plants won’t come back year after year, these easily reseed – and will take over your garden if you let them. Keep that in mind while planting and caring for these stunning blooms.
What family is larkspur in?
Both larkspur and delphinium belong to the Ranunculaceae, or buttercup family. Well known genera in the Ranunculaceae family include: Ranunculus, Consolida, Delphinium, Helleborus, Thalictrum, Clematis, and Aconitum. It’s commonly thought that annual larkspur was once included in the Delphinium genus.
What flowers are good for larkspur?
Lilac Spire. True to their name, these purple flowers are the perfect bloom to set off white and blue-hued larkspur in your garden. ‘Lilac Spire’. Or plant a whole bunch of them together for a startlingly stunning sea of lilac loveliness. You can find seeds available at Eden Brothers.
How tall do rocket larkspurs grow?
Rocket Mix. Even better, rocket larkspur shoots up to six feet tall. Plant against a front-facing wall or fence for a dazzling show of color.
Where is the giant larkspur native to?
C. ajacis. Photo by Beko, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA. It’s native to the Mediterranean and southern Europe, and has naturalized in much of the United States and Canada.
Do larkspurs need heavy staking?
Unlike their delphinium cousins, larkspur are hardy plants that don’t need heavy staking from the beginning. They’re actually pretty easy to care for after they’ve sprouted and grown a few true leaves.
How tall do larkspurs grow?
Staking the tall plants is another aspect of larkspur flower care. Provide support when they are young, with a stake that can accommodate the potential 6 to 8 foot (2 m.) growth. These plants will also require occasional watering during periods of drought.
How to chill larkspur seeds before planting?
The most reliable method of chilling larkspur seeds before planting can be done in the refrigerator. Chill protected seeds for two weeks prior to planting. Place seeds in a zip lock sandwich bag and include some damp perlite to provide moisture.
Can larkspur be moved?
After germination, when seedlings in peat pots have two sets of true leaves, they may be moved into the garden or a permanent container. Growing larkspur flowers do not like to be moved, so plant seeds into their permanent location.
Can you grow larkspurs in the spring?
Once you learn how to grow larkspur, you will likely include them in the garden year after year. Deciding when to plant larkspurs will depend somewhat on your location. Once established, however, larkspur flower care is simple and basic.
Is it easier to grow larkspur?
Learning how to grow larkspur is easier if you are somewhat familiar with local weather patterns, although, of course, there is no guarantee that the weather will cooperate with your gardening schedule.
Can larkspurs grow in containers?
Growing larkspur flowers centered in containers can be part of an eye-catching display. Use containers that won’t topple under the weight and height of the growing larkspur flowers. Larkspurs in the garden will often self-seed and can provide more additional larkspur flowers for the following year. Printer Friendly Version.
