As there is not a delphinium group that I know of, I don't know where else to post this. I just ordered seeds from this company due to the ratings on this site. I am preparing the beds and think that delphiniums like highly composted, aklakine soil. Can anyone tell me exactly how they grow their delphinium and if you have used seed from these folks. If you have used the seed, how did you start it?
Thank you,
Linda
Dowdeswell's Delphiniums
I haven't had much success with delphinium seed starting,. I managed to start some "butterfly blue" by wintersowing, but the slugs devoured the seedlings. I know from reading that delphinium seed doesn't store well, so it should be sown the year you buy it. Some people recommend cold treatment first.
Hope a delphinium expert chimes in so that we both can learn more. Did you email or call the seed supplier for instructions?
Yes, they do provide instructions. I was just looking for more. I was successful in starting Pacific Giatns in jiffy peat pots. They are growing well. Still babies though. Thanks and I hope someone does chime in. Have a great day!
I received a wonderful email from Terry at Dowdeswell's Delphinium answering all of my questions. I am looking forward to blooms next year. Thanks.
What did she say to do? Did she recommend any particular varieties? I want to try delphinium again next year!
I am going to start the seed when I receive it in a couple of weeks. I am going to use Jiffy pellets (as I always do) and grow lights that do not generate heat. I am going to over winter them in a cool garage or basement using the grow lights. It will be work, but I should get blooms next year. I don't mind starting seeds and tending plants. I am so excited to grow these and feel that I will have well developed plants to plant next spring. Their website has lots of instructions. Check them out. I ordered about 9 different varieties and plant to get 3-5 plants of each.
I think they only sell one variety, New Millenium. I just picked what I liked.
Best of luck!