Mastering Delphinium Cultivation: The Regal Stars of the Cottage Garden
Delphiniums, with their striking candles of cobalt, sapphire, and azure flowers, are a popular choice for many gardeners. However, these beautiful plants can be vulnerable to pests, particularly slugs and snails. Here's a guide to help you grow and protect your delphiniums.
Delphiniums, part of the Buttercup family, are native to the Northern Hemisphere, with most species originating from Asia and around 10% growing wild in Europe. They derive their name from the Greek delphis, meaning dolphin, due to the long spurs on their flowers.
These plants are usually short-lived, often raised from seed, and come in a good range of easy short-lived forms, including annuals, biennials, and short-lived perennials. Delphiniums can be grown successfully in pots, with proper drainage and a loam-based compost mix. However, supports are vital for delphiniums once they surge into growth to prevent the tall stems from snapping and keep the plant upright.
Slugs and snails pose a significant threat to delphiniums. To protect your plants, consider using pet-safe slug killers, organic pellets, or Nemaslug. Barriers such as grit, gravel, or crushed shells around the plant on the surface can also provide protection.
While specific slug-resistant delphinium varieties are not widely documented, the Delphinium requienii variety might offer some natural resistance due to its shiny leaves and sturdy, upright growth. General tips for slug resistance include choosing delphiniums with thicker or more waxy leaves, removing debris, using copper tape barriers around plants, and applying iron phosphate-based baits.
Delphiniums require regular feeding and watering during the growing season, especially during periods of drought and heat. They should be planted in autumn or spring, in neutral to alkaline soil that is sun-baked and well-drained. A ring of grit around each delphinium during planting can deter slugs underground.
It's worth noting that delphiniums are toxic plants, so it's best to wear gloves when handling them and plant them at the back of the border, away from pets.
In conclusion, while there are no widely recognized slug-resistant delphinium varieties, the Delphinium requienii might offer some natural resistance. Additional methods can be used to protect most delphinium types from slugs, ensuring you can enjoy these beautiful flowers in your garden.
[1] Delphiniums are prone to powdery mildew, and providing air flow and elbow room can help prevent it. [2] Delphinium requienii is the only garden form that is unappealing to slugs. [3] The iconic ornamental delphiniums were bred from various species, but in particular D. elatum (candle larkspur). [4] Comfrey leaves can be used as a non-lethal alternative to protect delphiniums from slugs, with the leaves replaced regularly. [5] Delphiniums should be planted in autumn or spring, in neutral to alkaline soil that is sun-baked and well-drained.
- Maintaining good airflow and providing sufficient space for delphiniums can help prevent the growth of powdery mildew.
- Unlike most delphinium varieties, Delphinium requienii is known to be unappealing to slugs, making it potentially more resistant to these garden pests.
