Delphiniums, the majestic giants of the cottage garden, are a sight to behold during the midsummer months. But as July rolls around, these stunning flowers can start to show signs of fatigue. Don't worry, though; with a few simple steps, you can help your delphiniums bounce back and bloom again. In my opinion, July is a crucial month for these plants, and it's all about giving them the care they need to recover from their initial spectacular display. So, let's dive into the five essential jobs that will keep your delphiniums thriving and flowering longer.
1. Deadhead for a Second Flush
One of the most important tasks for delphiniums in July is deadheading. Personally, I think it's the key to keeping these plants vibrant and encouraging a second flush of flowers. By removing faded spikes, you're essentially telling the plant to focus its energy on producing new blooms rather than seeds. This simple act can make a huge difference in the plant's overall health and appearance.
Rachel Bull, Head of Gardens at Homes & Gardens, emphasizes the importance of deadheading. She suggests that many varieties will reward you with a second, lighter flush of flowers if you cut back the spent spikes promptly. So, grab your pruning shears and get to work! Remember, the sooner you deadhead, the better the chances of a fresh display.
2. Water Deeply During Heatwaves
Delphiniums love moist soil, but they don't take kindly to prolonged drought. During heatwaves, they can quickly become stressed, leading to early bloom fade and wilting foliage. Therefore, knowing how to water effectively during hot weather is crucial. Deep watering is the way to go; aim to soak the soil once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil type. This ensures that moisture reaches the deeper roots, helping the plant stay healthy and vibrant.
I find it helpful to use a Gilmour Heavy Duty Adjustable Metal Hose Nozzle for this task. It allows me to switch between a gentle shower for soaking borders and a stronger stream for other watering jobs. Additionally, adding a layer of compost or organic mulch around the base can conserve soil moisture and regulate root temperatures, reducing the need for frequent watering.
3. Check Supports Before Summer Storms
July often brings intense thunderstorms, and tall delphinium spikes are vulnerable to strong winds and heavy rain. Even if you staked the plants earlier, it's essential to check the supports now. Soft twine, bamboo canes, or grow-through plant supports are excellent options, provided they allow the stems to move naturally without rubbing. I've found that Ecostakes Bamboo Garden Stakes from The Home Depot are a versatile and inexpensive choice for supporting tall delphiniums.
4. Feed After Flowering
After deadheading the first flush, giving your delphiniums a light feed can help fuel new shoots and encourage repeat flowering. A balanced fertilizer or one slightly higher in potassium is ideal, as it helps plants recover without promoting excessive soft, leafy growth during hot weather. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Bloom Booster Flower Food is a popular option for supporting flowering plants and providing the necessary nutrients.
However, always remember to water well after feeding, especially in high temperatures, to prevent scorching stressed roots.
5. Watch Out for Powdery Mildew
Hot days followed by humid nights create the perfect conditions for powdery mildew, a common issue for delphiniums in midsummer. Good airflow is your best defense against this problem. Remove any badly affected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and ensure neighboring plants aren't overcrowded. Additionally, keep an eye out for slugs and snails around fresh new shoots after deadheading. Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap is a gentle yet effective solution for tackling these pests.
A Final Thought
In my opinion, the key to keeping delphiniums thriving through summer is avoiding a few simple mistakes. Don't let plants dry out completely during hot spells, as drought stress can shorten flowering and reduce the chance of a second flush. Stay on top of deadheading, and resist the urge to cut back healthy foliage too early. By following these simple steps, you'll be able to enjoy the beauty of delphiniums well into the late summer months.
