A Guide to Delphiniums and How They Attract Hummingbirds

Table of Contents

The Delphinium plant

Delphinium plants, also known as Larkspur, are tall and elegant plants that produce incredible spikes of flowers in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white. They can grow up to 6 feet tall under the right conditions and are a favorite among gardeners for their impressive height and beauty.

Attracting hummingbirds to your garden

Delphiniums are not only beautiful to look at, but they are also great at attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors and long-tubed flowers, making the tall Delphinium spikes the perfect spot for them to feed.

Delphinium Growing Tips

If you're interested in growing delphiniums in your garden, follow these tips to ensure they thrive:

Choose the right location and soil

Delphiniums require well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. They prefer full sun exposure but will also tolerate partial shade. It's important to choose the right location for your Delphiniums, as once they begin to grow, they become difficult to move.

Watering and fertilizing

Delphiniums require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. They also benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied according to package instructions.

Pruning and staking

As Delphiniums grow taller, they need to be pruned to prevent them from bending or breaking. Use stakes to support the plants and keep them upright.

Hummingbird-Friendly Plants

In addition to Delphiniums, there are several other plants that attract hummingbirds to your garden:

Selecting the right plants for hummingbirds

Hummingbirds love bright-colored flowers with long, tubular shapes. Some great options include bee balm, cardinal flower, columbine, and salvia.

Companion planting with delphiniums

Planting Delphiniums with other types of plants can help attract more hummingbirds. Try planting them with phlox or any brightly colored species of Liatris.

Creating a hummingbird garden with delphiniums

If you want to create a dedicated hummingbird garden, consider planting a variety of Delphinium species along with other hummingbird-friendly plants. This will provide a diverse array of food sources and keep the birds coming back for more.

Delphinium Varieties for Hummingbirds

There are several varieties of Delphiniums that are particularly attractive to hummingbirds:

Pacific Giants Delphiniums

This variety of Delphinium is one of the tallest and produces beautiful blue, white, and purple flowers. They typically bloom in early summer and will continue blooming throughout the season if properly cared for.

Bellamosum Delphiniums

Bellamosum Delphiniums produce beautiful purple-blue flowers on shorter stalks, making them great for smaller gardens or borders.

Black Knight Delphiniums

Black Knight Delphiniums are a striking deep blue-purple color and have larger flowers than many other species. They prefer full sun exposure and well-draining soil.

Delphiniums are a stunning addition to any garden, and their tall spikes of flowers can attract hummingbirds from miles away. With proper growing conditions and a little bit of patience, you can enjoy these beautiful plants and the hummingbirds they bring to your garden.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Delphiniums:

What is the best time to plant delphiniums?

The best time to plant Delphiniums is in the fall or early spring. They require cooler temperatures to establish roots, so avoid planting them during hot summer months.

How do you prevent delphiniums from falling over?

Delphiniums can be prone to bending or breaking under their own weight. Use stakes or bamboo canes to support the plants as they grow.

Why do delphinium leaves turn yellow?

Yellowing leaves on Delphinium plants are usually a sign of underwatering. Be sure to water your plants regularly and thoroughly.

How often should I water my delphiniums?

Delphiniums require regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply once a week, but be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.

Are delphiniums toxic to pets?

Yes, Delphinium plants are toxic to both cats and dogs if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Do delphiniums require full sun or partial shade?

Delphiniums prefer full sun exposure but will also tolerate partial shade.

Can delphiniums grow in pots or containers?

While it's best to plant Delphiniums directly in the ground, they can be grown in large pots or containers with well-draining soil.

How long do delphiniums bloom for?

Delphiniums typically bloom for around 4-6 weeks during the summer months.

What pests should I watch out for when growing delphiniums?

Delphiniums can be susceptible to aphids, slugs, and snails. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them promptly if spotted.

Can delphiniums grow in tropical climates?

Delphiniums prefer cooler temperatures and are not well-suited for tropical climates. If you live in a warmer region, consider planting them in a shaded area to help protect them from heat stress.