How to Start Delphinium Indoors: A Step-by-Step Guide for Successful Indoor Gardening
What To Know
- By giving them a head start in a controlled environment, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy their beauty in your garden sooner.
- Use a watering can with a fine rose to mist the surface of the mix.
- Place a clear plastic dome or wrap over the trays to create a humid environment.
Delphiniums, with their towering spires of vibrant blooms, are a gardener’s dream. But these majestic flowers can be a bit finicky to start from seed. That’s where starting delphiniums indoors comes in. By giving them a head start in a controlled environment, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy their beauty in your garden sooner.
Why Start Delphiniums Indoors?
Starting delphiniums indoors offers several advantages:
- Earlier blooms: Indoors, you can control the environment and provide the warmth and light needed for faster germination and growth. This allows you to enjoy your delphiniums earlier in the season compared to direct sowing outdoors.
- Improved germination rates: Delphinium seeds can be slow to germinate, and starting them indoors gives you the opportunity to create ideal conditions for successful germination.
- More control over pests and diseases: By starting indoors, you can protect your seedlings from pests and diseases that can be prevalent in the garden.
When to Start Delphiniums Indoors
The best time to start delphiniums indoors depends on your climate and the desired bloom time. In general, aim to start seeds 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This allows the seedlings to develop a strong root system before being transplanted outdoors.
Choosing the Right Seeds
Choosing the right delphinium seeds is crucial for successful cultivation. Consider these factors:
- Variety: Delphiniums come in a wide range of colors, heights, and bloom times. Choose varieties that are suitable for your climate and garden space.
- Freshness: Fresh seeds germinate more readily. Look for seeds that are less than a year old.
- Source: Choose reputable seed suppliers who offer high-quality seeds.
Preparing for Indoor Sowing
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials:
- Seed starting mix: A sterile, well-draining seed starting mix is essential for healthy seedlings.
- Seed trays or pots: Use seed trays with individual cells or small pots (2-3 inches in diameter).
- Watering can with a fine rose: This helps to gently water the seeds without disturbing them.
- Heat mat: A heat mat can provide the consistent warmth needed for germination.
- Grow lights: Delphiniums need plenty of light, especially during the early stages.
- Labels: Use labels to keep track of your different varieties.
Sowing Delphinium Seeds
Now, let’s get those seeds in the ground:
1. Fill your trays or pots: Fill the cells or pots with seed starting mix, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top.
2. Moisten the mix: Gently water the mix until it is evenly moistened, but not soggy.
3. Sow the seeds: Delphinium seeds are tiny, so sow them thinly and evenly on the surface of the mix. Don’t bury them too deep, as they need light to germinate.
4. Cover the seeds: Lightly sprinkle a thin layer of seed starting mix over the seeds.
5. Water gently: Use a watering can with a fine rose to mist the surface of the mix.
6. Cover the trays: Place a clear plastic dome or wrap over the trays to create a humid environment. This helps to retain moisture and encourage germination.
Providing Ideal Conditions for Germination
Once the seeds are sown, it’s time to create the perfect conditions for them to sprout:
- Light: Place the trays in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. If you don’t have a sunny spot, use grow lights to provide 14-16 hours of light per day.
- Temperature: Delphinium seeds germinate best at temperatures between 65-70°F. A heat mat can help maintain a consistent temperature.
- Moisture: Keep the seed starting mix consistently moist, but not soggy. Water as needed, checking the moisture level with your finger.
Thinning and Transplanting
After your delphiniums have sprouted and developed their first true leaves, it’s time to thin them out and transplant them into larger pots or directly outdoors:
- Thinning: Thin out the seedlings to give them space to grow. Leave the strongest seedlings and remove the weaker ones.
- Transplanting: When the seedlings have several sets of true leaves, you can transplant them into larger pots or outdoors.
- Hardening off: Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate your seedlings to the outdoor conditions by exposing them to increasing periods of sun and wind. This process is called hardening off.
Caring for Your Delphiniums Outdoors
Once your delphiniums are established in your garden, they need regular care:
- Water regularly: Delphiniums prefer moist soil, especially during the hot summer months. Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilize: Feed your delphiniums with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Deadhead: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms.
- Support: As delphiniums grow tall, they may need support to prevent them from flopping over. Use stakes or cages to provide stability.
Enjoying the Beauty of Your Delphiniums
With proper care, your delphiniums will reward you with stunning blooms that will last for several weeks. Enjoy their vibrant colors and graceful form in your garden, and admire their beauty as they add a touch of elegance to your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take for delphinium seeds to germinate?
A: Delphinium seeds can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks to germinate, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Q: Can I start delphiniums from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can start delphiniums from cuttings. However, it is more challenging than starting from seed.
Q: What are the best companion plants for delphiniums?
A: Delphiniums look beautiful when planted with other tall, flowering plants, such as foxgloves, hollyhocks, and lupines.
Q: When should I cut back my delphiniums after they have finished blooming?
A: You can cut back delphiniums after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth. However, it’s best to wait until the foliage has turned brown and withered before cutting them back completely.
Q: Are delphiniums poisonous to pets?
A: Yes, delphiniums are poisonous to pets. Keep them away from your furry friends.