Planting a delphinium for seedlings: when and how to sow, further care and cultivation in the open field. How to grow a delphinium from seeds

I love flower beds, front gardens, gardens in the middle of summer! What doesn’t bloom there - luxurious roses, slender lilies, gladioli, cheerful phloxes, graceful carnations, bright escholcia, curly nigella ... I always admire such a variety, but the high multi-colored candles of delphiniums are amazing in a special way. They give beauty, height to front gardens, flower beds. Hybrid varieties look especially good - a kind of two-meter giants! So, a perennial delphinium - planting and care, photos of these beauties - the subject of our conversation.

Photo of a summer flower garden with delphiniums

Types of delphiniums

Perennial delphiniums hybrid varieties can be divided into five types.

Photo: King Arthur

In each group, one and a half to two dozen varieties. It is not surprising that it is difficult to choose a single, "your" variety. Some names are worth something! King Arthur, Black Eyed Angels, Sweethearts, others.

Perennial delphiniums begin to bloom in the month of June. The duration of flowering is from 2-3 weeks to one month. Tall candles of inflorescences, consisting of 50-80 flowers, begin to bloom from below.

Delphinium New Zealand giant, photo

You can look at the delphinium inflorescences for a long time - in some varieties the flower petals are rounded, in others they are sharp, in others they are wide, in others they have curls. There are even those that have petals of different shapes in one flower. Some flowers of delphiniums have "eyes" in the center, others do not.

Considering what has been said above, it is very difficult to choose which variety to grow - you want everything at once. But, if your plot is small, we recommend choosing no more than 2-3 varieties.

Delphinium perennial - growing from seeds

Do not think that delphiniums are easy to grow. Yes, for those who have already grown, care will not cause any particular difficulties. But when landing mandatory compliance agricultural technology.

You should start by choosing a landing site for perennial delphiniums. They like fertilized, fertile soil, prefer loamy, its acidity should be close to neutral. This means that wood ash at the planting site of delphiniums is highly desirable.

The area where delphiniums will grow should be open, ventilated, but, nevertheless, these tall plants should be protected from strong winds. Perennial delphiniums love the sun, but it is better if they are at least in light shade during the midday heat. Light shading will not allow the flowers to fade in the sun.

There is one secret to growing delphinium from seeds! The brightest colors of flowers are obtained from the seeds of the first year of harvest.

Remember that delphinium seeds lose their germination very quickly, so they must be sown in the fall immediately after ripening (October-November). Seeds are sown in open ground or seed boxes. If you failed to do this in the fall, then the seeds must be stratified. Sowing of ripened seeds is carried out in rows in a flower garden, randomly in sowing boxes.

There are terms for sowing seeds in open ground:

• spring - April-May,
• summer - June-July,
• winter - October-November.

Perhaps seed reproduction of delphiniums. for seeds and sprouts - this is the most troublesome task. Seeds require stratification, that is, before planting, they must be kept wet for 2 weeks in the refrigerator at a temperature of + 3-5 ° C. Sometimes they start growing there.

You can sow seeds for seedlings as early as late February or early March. Seedlings need additional illumination. Seedlings should be dived carefully, as they are easy to break - they are very fragile. When planting, deepen the seedlings to the cotyledon leaves.

I think this should only be messed with seeds of rare varieties, when there are few seeds. Seeds propagate varieties whose plants have a highly developed tap root and do not take root well during transplantation. Plants grown from seeds in open field, are distinguished by high winter hardiness, a powerful root system and a highly developed above-ground mass.

And the more common, proven varieties of delphiniums are best sown before winter in open ground. In the spring, after the emergence of seedlings, pick them up on permanent place bundles of 3-4 pieces in one hole.

With seed propagation, it turns out a large number of planting material, therefore it is recommended to carry out two thinnings, leaving the strongest and most beautiful plants. The distance between plants should be 20-30 cm. It is advisable to leave these plants at the planting site until flowering, which occurs four months later.

Reproduction of delphiniums by dividing the bush

Delphiniums also reproduce by dividing the bush, shoots.

You can plant them in early spring if you live in middle lane or even to the north, or in autumn, around September in the Kuban.

Delphiniums grow over time, so the pits for planting shoots or bushes are located at a distance of 50-60 cm. The size of the pits should be much larger than the shoots themselves (40 × 40 × 40 cm). This is necessary in order to fill them with nutritious compost mixed with organic and mineral fertilizers. The proportions are as follows - for 1-2 buckets of compost (rotted humus), 1 tablespoon with a mountain of superphosphate, the same amount of potash fertilizers, 1 tbsp. l. without a slide of potassium magnesia, a glass wood ash. It is better not to apply nitrogen fertilizers when planting.

When planting a delphinium bush (process) root collar seedlings should be deepened, but not more than 2-3 cm.

Very important point caring for delphiniums - mandatory thinning of shoots. Do this in the spring after the sprouts of the plant reach a height of 10 cm.

But in thinning there is one interesting feature. In the second year in the spring strong plants leave 3 stems, for those who are weaker - one. And in next years in large-flowered varieties, 3-4 shoots are left. And in varieties with small flowers - 7-10. The remaining stems are cut at the root.

Thinning allows the inflorescences not to shrink, not to lose their doubleness, and to preserve the original brightness of the flowers.

Blooming delphiniums need timely watering. Moreover, plentiful - at least 2-3 buckets of water are poured under each bush in dry weather. It is watered under the root, it is undesirable for water to get on the leaves, since delphiniums are easily subject to fungal diseases.

The ABC of agricultural technology - loosening the soil after watering or rain.

Delphiniums respond well to top dressing with abundant, bright flowering.

Experts advise doing this three times a season. The first top dressing - in the spring - with organic matter, the second after 1-1.5 months - with a complete mineral fertilizer such as Kemira Universal. The third time foliar top dressing is carried out during the appearance of buds - they are sprayed with a solution of superphosphate (50 g per 1 liter of water).

Alas, delphiniums are often affected powdery mildew, viruses. When you notice a dirty whitish coating on leaves or flowers, it is too late to take any action. Therefore, do not forget to spray the flowers with any fungicide, for example, XOM, Ridomil, or Fitosporin, to prevent the disease during the budding period.

By the way, there are delphiniums that are resistant to these diseases - these are varieties of the New Zealand group. When buying seeds, pay attention to which group these flowers belong to. By purchasing certain varieties, you will save time on processing flowers from diseases.

There is one feature of caring for delphiniums - pruning, or rather, the actions of flower growers after it.

Yes, before winter it is recommended to cut off faded flower stalks. The peculiarity lies in the fact that they must be cut very close to the ground, and the stumps should be piled up and covered with soil. The fact is that the stems of these flowers are empty inside. Leaving the cut stems above ground level will allow rainwater to accumulate inside the stumps, and this is a direct threat to the roots - they can rot over the winter. Do not wait for shoots in the spring. But do not forget to clean up the mound at the roots of the delphiniums in the spring.

You can leave the stems 20-25 cm long after pruning, but then you should cover the holes in the stem with clay and earth.

Everything that I wrote above about pruning delphiniums applies to varietal species, perennials.

Lovely annuals (they are called spurs, sokirks) reproduce by self-sowing, do not require such close attention to themselves.

Delphinium annual, photo of flowers

Undoubtedly, the delphinium on the site is very beautiful, elegant. But do not forget that this plant is poisonous. Protect your hands from dripping juice when cutting.

Delphinium, or as it is also called, "larkspur spur", is a genus herbaceous plants from the buttercup family, represented by 450 species of annuals and perennials. A group of annuals of 40 varieties is often referred to as an adjacent genus and is called sokirkami. The main distribution is seen in the territory of the Celestial Empire (today about 150 species of delphinium grow there), as well as in the regions of tropical Africa and the highlands of both hemispheres.

The name comes from the characteristic unopened shape, which strongly resembles the head of a dolphin. In addition, some botanists believe that the plant is named after the ancient Greek city of Delphi, in which, according to sources, a colossal number of plants were concentrated. In any case, planting a delphinium can be very in a good way decorations household territory, so every grower is ready to give a lot, just to see such a colorful "green friend" on his site.

Perennial flowers calmly endure any climatic changes, including drought and extremely low temperatures. An amazing appearance, represented by terry buds of interesting shapes and shades, will always decorate the landscape design of your garden and make it presentable. Due to the incredibly diverse colors, perennial fits perfectly with any shades.

They are of particular value blue tones, which is possessed by an impressive majority of varieties. Delphinium flowering is seen twice a year, which allows you to enjoy its beauty doubly. Asking the question of growing a delphinium from seeds, you need to understand that such an activity does not require much effort, so even a novice florist will be able to grow a colorful ornamental plant without much difficulty.

Gallery: delphinium (25 photos)

Varieties of delphiniums

As mentioned above, in nature there are two groups of delphiniums:

• perennial;
• annuals;

If we consider annuals, then they are popular due to the varieties of field delphinium and Ajax delphinium.

The field delphinium is a luxurious tall plant that can grow up to two meters in height and have the most extraordinary appearance. Simple or double flowers take on different tones, including:

• pink;
• White;
• lilac;
• blue;

In floricultural culture, the plant appeared as early as 1572. Growers are in particular demand for Frosted Sky, Qis Rose and Qis Dark Blue. Delphinium flowering begins in the first days of summer and continues until autumn.

Delphinium Ajax is a hybrid plant variety, which was the result of the selection of Doubtful and Oriental species, incorporating them best properties. The plant grows from 40 to 1 meter in height. It has almost sessile, strongly dissected leaves, spike-shaped inflorescences and a wide variety of shades, including purple, red, blue, pink and white. Some varieties received densely double flowers.

perennial delphinium

Growing delphinium from seeds at home from the group of perennials began a little later - in the 19th century. As a result of the hard work of breeders, the first hybrids were created, including varieties Barlow, Fine and Belladonna. After some time, the French breeder Victor Lemoine introduced terry varieties of perennials, which were classified as a separate category of “hybrid”, and soon “cultivated”.

At present, perennial delphiniums may have the most various shades. The total number reaches 800 shades. Among them there are tall, medium and undersized varieties with simple, semi-double, double and super-double flowers, ranging in size from two to 9 centimeters.

As for hybrid perennials, they can be divided into several groups according to their place of origin. Scottish hybrids, New Zealand and Marfin, named after the Marfino state farm, are especially popular. Representatives of each group are characterized by their unique differences and properties. For example, Marfin perennials are characterized by a frost-resistant character and weight decorative properties. They have very beautiful semi-double inflorescences with pronounced eyes. However, planting and growing such a perennial is a very difficult task, so not every grower is ready to start sowing a variety on his site.

Representatives of the New Zealand group were created relatively recently. They are distinguished high growth stem, which often reaches two meters, as well as the presence of semi-double or double flowers with a diameter of 7 to 9 centimeters. Some varieties have corrugated flowers. Hybrids are considered hardy and resistant to various diseases. They are also excellent for long-term cultivation and stand for a long time in the cut. Due to such advantages, many flower growers prefer New Zealand delphiniums.

A prominent representative of the Scottish hybrid perennials is the Tony Cockley variety. Hybrids are characterized by dense inflorescences, double and super-double flowers, which can have up to 58 petals. The inflorescence can grow up to 80 centimeters in length with a growth of 1.1-1-5 meters. "Scots" are famous for their wide color palette and unpretentiousness to the conditions of detention. Also they are durable.

How to grow a delphinium from seeds

The process of growing a delphinium at home can be divided into several stages:

• disinfection of planting material (seeds);
• soil preparation;
• sowing seeds;

Before planting the seeds, they must be pre-treated with a manganese solution. To do this, you need to take the finished product and tie it in a gauze bag, lowering it for 20 minutes into a ready-made thick pink solution.

In addition to traditional potassium permanganate, fungicidal preparations that can be prepared based on ready-made instructions have proven themselves well. After infusion, remove the bag from the solution and rinse it clean water by soaking the seeds in a solution of elin in the ratio of a few drops per 100 ml of water. In the end, dry the seeds so that they do not stick together.

As far as soil preparation is concerned, this stage you need to take an even amount of peat, garden soil and compost, add to them half the amount of washed sand and sift. To increase the moisture capacity and friability of the soil, perlite can be added to the composition at a concentration of 0.5 cups per 5 liters soil mixture. Try warming the mixture in a water bath to neutralize all weeds and fungal growths. Also remember to fill the planting containers and seal them.

As for planting, at this stage it is necessary to distribute the seeds evenly over the surface, attaching labels with the variety name and sowing date. Be sure to cover the planting material with a 3mm layer of potting soil so that it does not float on the first watering. Also compact upper layer plastic wrap or package. Conduct careful watering of the crop by spraying the surface with cold, pre-boiled water. Close the container with a transparent lid or other covering material, which is necessary for more productive germination.

The optimum temperature indicator for rapid germination of crops varies between 10-15 degrees Celsius. In order for the procedure to be completed successfully, after 3-4 days, move the container to the refrigerator or to the glazed balcony. Do not be afraid if the temperature drops below -5 degrees Celsius there.

Perennial planting features: growing from seedlings

It is not difficult to understand that the sowing was correct. Healthy sprouts are represented by dark green, strong leaves with a characteristic point. If 2-3 leaves appear on the stems, you can dive into pots with a volume of 200-300 milliliters with further growth at a temperature around 20 degrees Celsius. It is important that the soil is sufficiently loose and breathable, and the intensity of watering is moderate. Otherwise, the risk of the formation of the so-called "black leg" increases, which can cause the death of the plant.

Start accustoming seedlings to fresh air from the beginning of May, without removing them from the windowsill during seasonal airing. Also provide her with short sunbathing by placing the pot in bright sunlight. Fertilizing seedlings before planting is performed twice with a two-week pause. As a top dressing, you can use the composition of Agricola or Mortar. It is important that during processing it does not fall on sheet plates. As for planting ready-grown seedlings in open ground, such a procedure can be carried out only when a clod of earth in a container with seedlings is completely entwined with a well-developed root system. By the way, seedlings are very quickly taken out together with an earthy clod without harm to the rhizome.

When to plant a perennial delphinium

Planting seedlings in open ground is carried out under the only condition: if the threat of frost has passed. Choose as a place to grow sunny areas where there is no stagnant moisture. Asking the question: how to grow perennial delphinium, you need to dig holes with a diameter of 40 centimeters at a distance of 60-70 centimeters from each other, and fill them with a composition of compost, complex fertilizer and ash in the ratio of half a bucket of humus, two tbsp. spoons of fertilizer and a glass of ash.

The finished mixture must be thoroughly mixed with an earthen lump so that it does not get on the root. Having made a characteristic recess, you can proceed to placing a seedling in it. At the same time, the ground around is compacted and the beds are watered. At first, it is desirable to cover the seedling plastic bottle or glass jar until it takes root. As soon as the delphinium grows, the shelter is removed.

Features of caring for the delphinium

Growing a delphinium at home is very simple. When the shoots become strong enough and grow up to 10-15 centimeters, they should be fed with a solution of cow dung and water in the proportion of a bucket of manure to 10 buckets of water. This composition can be used for 5 large bushes delphinium. After carrying out the procedures for cleaning the beds from weeds and the obligatory loosening of the soil, the upper layers of mulch should be filled up based on a three-centimeter layer of humus or peat.

Thinning bushes will become necessary when reaching 20-30 cm stem height. About 3-5 young stems should be left in the bush, which will make it possible to grow beautiful and huge inflorescences. You need to remove the weak shoots of the inner part of the bush, breaking off or cutting them off near the ground. Such measures will protect the plant from the development of dangerous diseases and ensure productive air circulation. Cut cuttings can be rooted.

The cut is treated with a mixture based on charcoal and a crushed tablet of heteroauxin, and then pinned in a mixture of sand and peat and covered with a film. When 3-6 weeks have passed, the stalk will give roots. After another 2-3 weeks, it can be transplanted into open ground. That's all, planting the delphinium with cuttings has been successfully completed.

If the plant grows up to 40-50 centimeters in height, three support rails up to 1.8 meters high should be dug near each bush. They will need to tie the stems with ribbons or fabric strips, which will avoid cutting into the stems when exposed strong wind. The next tying is carried out at a height of 100-120 centimeters.

Throughout growing season a flower can absorb up to 60 liters of water, so during a dry summer it is necessary to pour 2-3 buckets of water under each bush weekly. Following these recommendations, you can protect the plant from various consequences and make it lush, beautiful and healthy.

Attention, only TODAY!

(popular names - "larkspur", "spur") will give originality to a lawn or flower bed, will become a spectacular decoration of the yard. Powerful stems with lavender inflorescences, Pink colour or shade sea ​​wave This is the delphinium. Planting and caring for it are not difficult: the plant is unpretentious, sprouts well with seedling and seedless cultivation and can be one of the first successes of a novice gardener.

Selection and preparation of seed

Basically, through the inoculum, the annual delphinium is propagated. Growing from seeds is optimal for Delphinium Ayaksov, popular in Russian latitudes, various "hyacinth" varieties.

ON THE PICTURE: Dark pink Ajax Delphinium.

It is desirable to propagate Pacific hybrids only by seeds ( Pacific ), bred in California. These include varieties:

• "King Arthur";
• "Black Knight";
• "Astolet";
• "Galahad";
• Blue Jay etc.

When propagated by seeds, such delphiniums retain 60–90% of varietal characteristics, which is important for those who collect delphinium varieties or are simply a big fan of it.

Another method of reproduction is vegetative (cuttings, buds, division of the rhizome) - suitable for perennial species delphinium, growing from seeds of which carries the risk of losing varietal characteristics. Propagated directly from the parent plant, young bushes get all of it. varietal features and characteristics, including: color, flower shape, habit ( appearance) and even resistance to some diseases! Also vegetatively bred densely double varieties of flowers that do not form seeds.

Seeds are purchased at the store or harvested with their own hands in early autumn, when they ripen.

ON THE PICTURE: delphinium seeds.

One plant with four inflorescences can bring up to 2.5 thousand seeds. This is quite a lot, especially for small or compact delphinium varieties. Therefore, in order to protect the parent plant from depletion, when the seeds ripen, they leave only the lower part of the inflorescence and 10-15 leaves.

A considerable problem in the long-term cultivation of delphiniums from seeds in the same place is their self-sowing. To avoid unauthorized "sowing" near the parent plants, you need to collect seeds immediately after they ripen and prevent mature "seeds" from spilling onto the ground.

Once harvested, the seeds remain viable for two to four years (when stored in a cupboard). If you place the seed in the refrigerator, hermetically sealing the jar with it, its germination will be preserved for an unlimited time.

Presowing treatment of delphinium seeds

ON THE PICTURE: Plant leaf spot.

Sowing delphinium for seedlings - timing and agricultural technology

You can sow delphinium for seedlings in March-April, depending on the region. The higher the continental climate in it and the more likely late severe frosts, the later it is worth starting sowing. For example, in northern regions Leningrad region, in the Urals and Siberia, the planting of grown seedlings in the ground "shifts" closer to the end of May or even June.

It is most convenient to use for growing seedlings decomposing in the ground peat pots. root system delphiniums are vulnerable and do not tolerate transplanting, and planting in such containers minimizes possible damage to the roots.

The substrate for seedlings needs a light, slightly acid reaction. Optimum temperature for growing seedlings of delphinium - 12–15 ° С. Under the conditions of care, seedlings appear in 8-10 days. For full growth, seedlings need a sufficient amount of light and moderate regular watering.

ON THE PICTURE: Delphinium seedling.

Seedlings after the first true leaf has developed. In the conditions of central Russia, they can be planted in open ground in early May, since the delphinium is not afraid of light spring frosts.

Young plants are grown at home and transplanted to a permanent place in the garden in the fall or next spring.

Growing delphinium seeds in the open field

Optimal sowing time

In moderately warm and warm regions of Russia, it is much easier to grow delphiniums through direct sowing in open ground. There is no particular need to grow their seedlings.

Flowers are sown in open ground in spring (no later than the second half of April, otherwise the plants will not have time to fully bloom), and in the fall, in September-October, the delphinium tolerates moderately cold winters well under cover of snow.

Delphinium is able to survive frosts of at least 20-23 ° C without shelter. But the sharp contrast of frosts and thaws sometimes provokes the growth of seeds and the subsequent death of seedlings.

Choosing a place for sowing delphinium in open ground

Delphinium is able to grow in one place up to 5 years or even longer. The ideal place for its sowing is a well-lit area with protection from the wind and some shading during the midday hours.

For delphiniums, sandy or loamy soil with moderate moisture and a sufficient amount of humus is best suited, ideally slightly acidic. It is permissible to sow the delphinium in clay soil, if it is first improved. For this purpose, for 1 sq. m. of clay soil, 1–2 buckets of sand are introduced, 50–80 g of mineral complex fertilizer, 20–25 kg. compost (you can replace it with humus).

Poorer soils need to be prepared for growing delphiniums. For this, complex mineral fertilizers in the amount of 40–50 g per 1 sq. m. and 10–15 kg. organic matter per the same area.

Delphinium seed sowing technology

Sowing delphinium for growing in open ground is done as follows:

• "Recesses-nests" are being prepared at a distance of 15–25 cm from each other.
• 4-5 delphinium seeds are introduced into each "nest", which are then buried in the soil by about 1-2 cm. The larger the seeds of the variety, the deeper they are placed in the ground.
• Seeds are carefully covered with a layer of earth.
• Sown delphiniums are watered abundantly and mulched with humus or fresh peat to retain moisture in the soil.

ON THE PICTURE:It is important to deepen the delphinium seeds sufficiently when planting, depending on the variety.

After 10-20 days from the moment of planting, shoots will begin to appear. Further care for young plants includes watering, fertilizing and creating best conditions for flowering.

Watering delphinium seedlings

Delphiniums do not like waterlogging of the soil. Excess moisture can cause rotting of the rhizome, but even if this disease bypasses the plants, overflow will cause large areas without flowers to appear in the inflorescences. Because of such "bald spots" plants will lose their decorative effect.

ON THE PICTURE:Auto drip irrigation seedlings or young plants, perhaps the most convenient way irrigation organization.

Watering delphiniums should be plentiful during drought and after each fertilization. Solution minerals will benefit only if it soaks the soil to the roots. In other cases, watering should be regular and moderate, not too often and not superficially.

Feeding the delphinium

When planting, a certain margin is introduced into the soil nutrients, but several additional top dressings are required during the year.

• When the plants grow to 10–15 cm, they are fed with liquid organic matter or complex mineral fertilizer.
• During budding or when the first flowers bloom, a second top dressing is carried out with a high percentage of potassium and phosphorus compounds in the composition. Such top dressing is required in case of a friendly and abundant beginning of flowering.
• At the end of the flowering period, when the renewal buds are laid, the delphinium needs fertilizer in the form of a potassium-phosphorus complex, without nitrogen.

ON THE PICTURE: When the first delphinium buds appear, it's time to feed it a second time.

Delphinium is a very capricious plant that requires constant attention from the gardener. In our material, you will learn in detail how to grow a delphinium from seeds and care for the plant.

How to store seeds at home?

It is best to plant seeds grown by oneself on the site - gardeners are constantly convinced of this. And this is especially true for the delphinium - only if you grow the plant with seeds that you personally collected, you can get beautiful flowers.

True, it is very important to properly store the collected seeds - they are poured into glass containers and placed on the balcony or in the refrigerator on the bottom shelf.

If you want to grow a delphinium on your site, then growing seedlings from seeds is very important event. True, there is no general “recipe” for seed germination, but there are several important recommendations that are worth following. This will prevent serious illnesses.

The main thing to remember is that the seeds must be frozen before planting. Under such conditions, the seed material will retain its similarity for the next 15 years. If you keep the grains warm, then the maximum shelf life of their qualities will be less than a year.

At the same time, delphinium seeds under the age of three years should not be sown - it is better to take "adult" specimens.

When to carry out work?

Work should begin at the very beginning of spring, since this is the period for the development of plants. However, it should be remembered that the delphinium is a "northern" culture, because the plant does not need time to thaw. It is best to plant plants at the end of March.

Capacity

The container should correspond to the number of seedlings. If you don't have many seeds, they can fit in a container with a diameter of about 15 cm. If you plan to prepare seedlings for planting in a large area, then it is better to plant the seeds in a large container.

The height of the soil should be about 10 cm, but it is better to add a little more, because if the soil mixture is small or the capacity is too small, then the future seedlings will be small, with an undeveloped root system.

preparing the ground

Best not to buy ready ground, since this plant is very picky about the soil, for example, it does not like too acidic or peaty soils. Therefore, everything should be prepared independently. Everything is quite simple here. Take in equal parts:

• Humus.
• Chernozem.
• Sand.

If there are difficulties with black soil, you can replace it with peat, but only in small quantities.

An important point: not all gardeners understand why peat should not be used. The fact is that if there is a large amount of peat in the soil mixture, then when it dries, along with humus, a hard and almost impenetrable crust will begin to form - young seedlings will not be able to survive there.

And in most ready-made substrates, the composition always contains a large amount of this element.

Delphinium perennial - growing from seeds

After you have prepared the containers with the soil, water the substrate so that the seeds can better "cling" to the soil.

Since this plant is grown from very small seeds, it is likely that one part will be sown very densely, and the other part will be thin. To avoid such a problem, before laying the seeds, they must be sprinkled river sand- against its background, dark seeds will be very clearly visible.

In general, the optimal sowing density is 2-3 seeds per square centimeter. At the same time, there is one important difference - the thicker the seeds are planted, the higher the percentage of seed germination will be (this is not typical for most types of flowers that need as much space as possible for development). Therefore, when planting, it is worth planting the seeds thicker.

After sowing the seeds, they should be sprinkled with a layer of previously prepared soil about 3 mm high. If you make the layer too large, then, most likely, the delphinium seed material simply cannot germinate.

After that, water the planting again and cover the containers with glass or film.

It is important to remember that the delphinium is a cold-loving plant, therefore plantings should not be stored in a warm room and exposed to open sunlight. The optimum temperature for healthy seedling- about +15 degrees. If the air temperature rises to +12 degrees or more, young seedlings will begin to wither.

If you follow all these rules, then the first shoots will begin to appear in just a week and a half. But if after three weeks nothing has appeared, then you have violated something.

How to properly care for plants in the early days?

As soon as the first seedlings appear, you need to remove the cover - the plants need air. It is also worth monitoring the level of moisture in the soil - it should not be too wet, but not too dry.

If we talk about watering, then there is one thing important rule- do not water the delphinium from above, because this will destroy the young seedlings, after such watering they will fall and not rise. Therefore, they are watered only in the pan - this method of planting will save the seedlings, and at the same time the required percentage of humidity will be guaranteed.

Annuals and perennials

All types of these plants will be effective - both perennial and annual. However, growing perennials is much more profitable, because by planting a delphinium once, you will not have to think about growing them in the next few years.

This plant gained its popularity in the 19th century - during that period the first hybrids were bred, which attracted flower growers with their exquisite appearance. They still exist, but in a slightly improved form.

But the most reference varieties are considered:

• Barlow.
• Belladonna.
• Delphinium is wonderful.

The color palette of this plant is also attractive - about 700 different shades.

A variety of delphinium varieties

Delphiniums are divided not only into groups according to the timing of growth, but also according to geographic location. Moreover, the "migration" of crops is an inevitable process, because flower growers from all over the world are conducting "experiments" with the cultivation of new varieties, sharing grains with their friends from other countries.

One of the "youngest" delphiniums is a New Zealand variety. Such plants differ in height - their "growth" reaches about 2.2-2.5 m, the flowers are as large as possible and very elegant - terry. This variety is resistant to diseases, frost, and it is also very durable both in the flower bed and in the form of a bouquet.

This variety is especially popular with private gardeners, since growing such a crop is a pleasant and profitable business.

One more beautiful variety- Scottish delphiniums with dense inflorescences, a huge number of petals, which can be about 50. The Galahad delphinium looks especially good in cuts: large white flowers collected in ears - they are ideal as a gift.

Planting a delphinium in open ground

If you decide to plant delphinium seeds directly on the garden, then work can be carried out at the end of April. The main thing is that the snow completely melts, and the earth warms up a lot.

The delphinium is also planted in August - the main thing is not to be late so that the plants have time to grow, to form two real leaves. In this case, they will be able to normally endure the winter.

Conclusion

At its "genetic" level, the delphinium has retained a love for low temperatures, the ability to live without water for a sufficiently long time, and grows at a certain level of acidity. Therefore, all the rules listed above apply to all varieties of this plant.

When planting in open ground, before and after flowering, plants need to be provided with quality care. And you need to remember that to get the result you need to work very carefully.

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To decorate the landscape, flower growers often breed delphinium from seeds; growing it on your own plot is a complicated process, but very exciting. To this beautiful flower from the buttercup family has become the pride and decoration of the garden, you need to know the rules for planting and caring for it.

How to grow a delphinium from seeds?

Delphinium is a flower as luxurious as it is whimsical, but the candle-like, tall, elegant inflorescences are worth the effort. Growing delphinium flowers from seeds begins with high-quality planting material, it should not be kept warm, keep it in the refrigerator on a glazed balcony or veranda in a hermetically sealed container.

Growing a delphinium from seeds is not an easy process, but following the technology, you can get healthy plants by growing seedlings or by sowing seeds on open soils. In order for the delphinium to begin to bloom in the year of planting, it should be grown using seedlings. When caring for sprouts, do not overmoisten the soil, water it in a pan, while the earth should be well dried out.

Stratification of delphinium seeds at home

Before seeding, delphinium is produced (keeping them moist in a cool room), for this process, perform the following manipulations:

1. Spread the delphinium seeds evenly on the cotton fabric.
2. Roll the fabric into a loose roll, place it in a container with a little water at the bottom.
3. Leave the dishes with seedlings in a room with a temperature of 5-7 ° C for seven days.
4. The fabric with seeds should not be excessively wet, but constantly moistened.
5. After a week, after examining the appearance of the seeds, select for planting those that turned out to be more swollen, with future sprouts that appeared on them in the form of white dots.

When to plant delphinium seeds?

You can sow the material in early autumn (after the seeds are collected) or at a later date, after the soil is slightly frozen. At home, planting begins from the end of February, then the delphinium will bloom in the year of planting. In this case, seedlings should be provided with additional lighting with the help of. The process of planting seeds can last until mid-May.

The most favorable period when delphiniums should be sown for seedlings is experienced growers consider the first days of March, at this time you can avoid additional illumination. Good results depend not only on the timing of disembarkation, but also on other factors. Should be strictly adhered to necessary processes aimed at preparing seeds for planting and further care for seedlings.

Planting delphinium seeds

The method of planting a delphinium for seedlings with seeds is more complicated than using cuttings, but most flower growers prefer it directly, since it is possible to carry out full control over the process of planting seeds and plant growth. Giving some advice on sowing delphinium for seedlings, experts recommend adhering to the following sequence:

1. Disinfect the seeds with a thick pink solution of manganese.
2. Rinse, then leave for 24 hours in a solution (2 drops in half a glass of water), dry.
3. Using a water bath, steam the soil mixture (for 40-60 minutes), consisting of garden soil, mixed in equal quantities with peat and humus, with the addition of a small amount of sand. Pour it into a container for planting and compact.
4. Evenly place the seeds with tweezers on the soil, pour an earthen layer on top (about 3 mm), slightly moisten (it is better to do this from a spray bottle, pre-boiled and cooled water).

Planting delphinium seeds in peat tablets

Strong, viable seedlings grown without much effort is the dream of any grower, it is easy to realize if you sow a delphinium in. This method of growing plants has the following advantages:

1. Eliminates the work of preparing soil mixtures, steaming them and adding various growth stimulants to the soil.
2. Saves space.
3. Peat tablets are impregnated with antifungal compounds, stimulants and minerals.
4. The top layer of peat easily passes air to the root system, the roots receive the oxygen they need.
5. The grown seedling is easy to transfer to the ground without injuring it during transplantation.
6. For irrigation, pour water into the pan, with the tablets installed in it.

Peat tablets are great for delphinium, as for a plant with problematic germination that does not tolerate transplantation. Before planting the seeds, the tablets are placed in warm water, to wet the peat, then wring out to remove excess moisture and installed in a container or pallet. For ease of planting, each tablet has a small recess, put the seeds in them, pull the polyethylene over the container and place it in a warm, bright place.

Delphinium - landing in a snail

Most plants can be grown in the “snail way”, delphinium seedlings in the snail take root especially well, due to their cold-resistant properties, which allow the sprouts to be immediately transplanted into permanent soil. To fold the “snail”, a soft substrate is used, a container with transparent walls to place a spirally twisted roll in it, two stationery rubber bands and cellophane. There are three ways to grow seeds:

• with the use of soil;
• groundless (using toilet paper);
• combined.

Taking up the laying of seeds, unfold the tape in front of you, pour soil on it or lay paper, retreating 10-15 mm from the edge, lay the seeds with tweezers on a surface previously moistened with water from a spray bottle. Press the seeds lightly, gently begin to twist the substrate so that it takes the form of a roll. Delphinium from seeds, growing seedlings using the snail method - allows you to clearly see the roots of the plant, which helps their subsequent sorting.

How long does it take for a delphinium to sprout?

The right temperature for growing crops, which is higher than + 8-10 ° C, makes it possible for sprouts to appear 9-10 days after sowing. Delphinium seedlings begin to develop well at a temperature in the range of + 15-17 ° C, but if the temperature in the room exceeds + 20 ° C, the seedlings become depressed, which is why it is difficult to grow strong and healthy plants in warm rooms.

To increase the germination of seeds, you can hold containers with seedlings for 4-5 days in a room with a temperature of +10 to +15 ° C, and then place containers with shoots for 12-14 days in a refrigerator, on a glazed balcony or insulated veranda. If during these periods the sprouts did not germinate, it means that you purchased low-quality seeds or did not follow the sowing technology.

When to dive delphinium after germination?

After opening 1-2 leaves, it can be produced in separate containers. The picking of the delphinium is carried out in containers sufficient to accommodate the root system in them. To transplant sprouts, take the same composition of the soil in which the seeds were sown, add fertilizer to it from a mixture of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus and trace elements, calculated as five grams per five liters of soil mixture. Having placed a sprout in a pot so that the neck of the root is located on the surface of the soil, sprinkle the roots with earth, lightly compact near the stalk.