Every summer, I look forward to the elegant spikes of larkspur swaying gently in the breeze. Their vibrant blooms, ranging from soft pastels to rich jewel tones, transform the garden into a painter’s palette. Growing larkspur isn’t difficult, but they have their quirks, and over the years, I’ve learned how to coax the best out of these ethereal flowers.
Quickly Find Larkspur Growing Tips?
Growing Larkspur in Containers or Small Spaces
You don’t need sprawling flower beds to enjoy larkspur. I’ve had tremendous success growing them in containers on my patio. The trick is to give them plenty of depth. These plants develop long taproots, so I use containers that are at least a foot deep.
I fill the pots with well-draining soil mixed with a little compost. Larkspur thrives in soil that holds moisture without becoming soggy, so drainage holes are a must. I like to plant a few seeds in each container, thinning them out as they grow, leaving only the strongest ones to shine.
Since larkspur tends to get tall, I’ve learned to provide stakes or place the pots near a sturdy trellis to keep the stems upright. There’s nothing sadder than seeing a beautiful spike of flowers bent or broken after a windy day.
The Perfect Soil and Sunlight for Larkspur
Larkspur isn’t overly demanding, but they do have preferences. They like their soil well-drained and slightly alkaline. If your soil is more acidic, you can sprinkle a bit of lime before planting.
When it comes to sunlight, they’re sun worshippers. A spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal. In the hottest part of summer, a bit of afternoon shade can help, but they won’t bloom well if they’re in constant shade.
Companion Planting with Larkspur
One of my favorite parts of gardening is experimenting with plant combinations, and larkspur opens up a world of possibilities. I love pairing them with other vertical plants, like foxgloves and delphiniums, to create a dramatic skyline in the garden. For a softer touch, I plant larkspur alongside sweet peas. The way their tendrils weave around the larkspur’s sturdy stems adds a sense of whimsy.
If you want to attract pollinators, consider planting larkspur near lavender or bee balm. The combination of their blooms creates a paradise for bees and butterflies, which, in turn, benefits all the plants in your garden. I’ve also noticed that pairing larkspur with marigolds can help deter aphids—a trick I’ve come to appreciate in my vegetable garden.
Another fun experiment is mixing larkspur with herbs. Dill and fennel, with their feathery leaves, provide a stunning textural contrast to larkspur’s upright form. Plus, they’re both favorites of beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help keep pests in check.
If you’re looking for a colorful blend, try combining larkspur with calendula and cosmos. The bright, cheery blooms of these annuals dance beautifully around the stately larkspur, creating a playful, painterly effect in the garden.
Protecting Larkspur’s Delicate Beauty
Although larkspur is hardy, they need a bit of help to stay pristine. Their tall stems can be vulnerable to wind, so I usually plant them near a fence or add some discreet stakes.
Pests like aphids and slugs occasionally take an interest in my larkspur. I keep an eye out for signs of trouble and use neem oil to deter aphids. For slugs, I set up beer traps or sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants.
Growing Larkspur Across Climates
The timing of planting larkspur varies depending on where you live. In cooler climates, I sow seeds in early spring once the soil can be worked. But in warmer regions, larkspur does best when sown in late fall, allowing the seeds to overwinter and germinate in the cooler months.
In areas with extreme heat, mulch becomes your best friend. A layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool, which is crucial for these plants.
Troubleshooting Bloom Issues
If larkspur ever lets you down by refusing to bloom, don’t despair—it’s usually an easy fix. Too much shade is a common culprit, so make sure they’re getting enough sunlight. Over-fertilizing can also be an issue. Larkspur doesn’t need heavy feeding; too much nitrogen will result in lush foliage but no flowers.
Another trick I’ve learned is to thin the seedlings early. Crowded plants compete for nutrients and sunlight, leading to stunted growth. It’s tough to pull out perfectly good seedlings, but it’s worth it for stronger, healthier plants in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Growing larkspur is a labor of love, but the reward is worth every ounce of effort. Whether you’re planting them in a sprawling cottage garden or a humble container on your balcony, larkspur brings a touch of elegance that few other flowers can match. With the right care and companions, your garden will be bursting with color and life all summer long.