The larkspur, which is poisonous to humans, seems to taste particularly good in snails, after all, the young shoots in particular are quickly consumed by the voracious bugs in spring - one of the reasons why many gardeners only cultivate Delphinium in tubs. But even if you don't have a garden, you can enjoy the magical panicles of flowers on the balcony or terrace.
Larkspur also thrives in pots with good care
Plant larkspur correctly in the pot
In order for delphiniums to grow vigorously and healthily in pots and produce plenty of flowers, they must feel comfortable. In addition to a location that is as sunny and sheltered from the wind as possible, this also includes a large bucket - the higher the selected variety, the larger the planter must be - and the right substrate. Choose a pot made of natural materials such as clay, as this is the best way to evaporate excess water and keep the delphinium roots nice and cool. The perennial does not like "hot feet" and acknowledges this with meager growth and increased susceptibility to disease.
Suitable delphinium varieties for a container culture
Basically, all delphiniums are ideal for growing in a bucket, although the lower-growing varieties are naturally easier to keep - they simply need significantly less space. Therefore, you should preferably use the dwarf varieties ("Blue Dwarf", for example, can also be kept well in window boxes (€109.00)) or the Belladonna hybrids.
Maintain top larkspur carefully
In general, potted plants always need more care than specimens planted out in the garden, and delphiniums are no exception. Above all, make sure that the plant does not dry out and is fertilized regularly.
- Water the delphinium as soon as the top layer of soil in the pot has dried.
- Wait for excess water to drain and then discard.
- Larkspur does not tolerate waterlogging, so you should also ensure drainage in the pot.
- A layer of potsherds at the bottom of the pot is suitable.
- Fertilize every four weeks with a liquid fertilizer for flowering plants.
- In principle, fertilizer is only used in the growth period between March and August.
- Cut the delphinium down to about 20 centimeters after the first bloom.
- Heavy pruning is also done in the fall.
tips and tricks
Although delphinium is absolutely hardy, you should still protect potted specimens in winter. The roots freeze faster in the tub, so that the plant eventually dies. So protect the pot with a covering made of jute or raffia and the roots with a mulch layer made of straw, leaves or brushwood.