Grow-A-Long Larkspur (Delphinium consolida)

How to grow the annual Delphinium Larkspur (Delphinium consolida)
Larkspur needs both cold stratification to break seed dormancy and trigger germination and vernalisation (a period of cool growing temperatures) to trigger flower development.
Larkspur won’t germinate if the soil temperature is higher than 13°c so it’s vital that seed is sown outside in an unheated greenhouse and definitely not placed on a heat mat.
Upon receipt from our autumn jump starter seed shop, pop your larkspur seed packets in the fridge or freezer until the weather starts to cool down. This will treat seeds to cold (stratification) which will help break seed dormancy. For best results sow in October.
Sow one seed per cell. Larkspur has a tap root that can be delicate. By sowing seeds in cells this limits any need to disturb the roots. Cover seeds with a layer of compost to block out the light, darkness aids germination.
It is important not to overwater seed trays, Larkspur seeds are prone to rot. If you find any of the cells are empty after a few weeks, simply sow another seed. You can keep sowing seeds until January if needed.
More information can be found in our Handbooks
zoewoodwardgar...

[@kaymill5565]

This is such a value to us fledgling gardeners. Being able to see plants from seeds to glorious fruition helps so much! Thank you!

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

I’m so pleased it helps! If you wanted to get some of my exact seeds, sign up to the mailing list. There is a link on my website xxx

[@Natural_zonk]

Brilliant, the support to create a wall of flowers is a great idea!

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Awww thank you so much x

[@annakowal7387]

I had self-seeded larkspur last summer in a big pot that stood on the roofed terrace. So the soil wasn't too wet. I was so surprised, cause I've never been successful in growing them from seeds- always had a plant or two from a packet of seeds.

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Self seeded surprises are the best!

[@margueritespringer3687]

Thank you. Yes they are absolutely incredibly beautiful

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Thank you for watching xxx

[@dianebeckett1697]

Thank you for this information

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

My pleasure, thank you so much for watching xxx

[@jackiecrispin]

Excellent thanks

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Awww you’re welcome x

[@patriciavincent5076]

Magnificent!

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Bless you xx

[@thewalledgardenflowerfarm]

Thank you Zoe! Do you ever use propagated lids in your unseated greenhouse? 😊

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Not until late winter
This video explains what I use and don't use in winter
th-cam.com/video/zken7QI3mJw/w-d-xo.html

[@superkatertot5425]

Should I dampen the soil before or after adding the seeds?

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

Yes before hand for direct sowing, but after for planting xxx

[@helliehell]

Not one of my seeds has germinated yet! No signs of life...should I sow more or wait a bit longer? 😬

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

They are very erratic and can take a long time. Dont over water and as it cools down they should appear

[@helliehell]

@@zoewoodwardgardening First seedling appeared yesterday!!! 🤣(they are not your seeds, they are from Chiltern)

[@thewalledgardenflowerfarm]

Unheated!!😂

[@zoewoodwardgardening]

x