Magic Fountains Series Delphinium

Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before your last spring frost. Delphinium seeds require light to germinate, so sprinkle them on the soil surface or press them lightly without covering. Keep soil moist and temperature around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit until germination, which typically occurs in 15 to 25 days. Transplant seedlings to individual pots once they've developed their first true leaves.

Harden off seedlings over 7 to 10 days before transplanting outdoors after your last frost date. Space plants 36 inches apart in full sun. Gently firm soil around each transplant and water well to settle the soil.

You can direct sow seeds in fall (4 to 6 weeks before the first frost) or early spring as soon as soil is workable. Scatter seeds on prepared soil and press lightly into place; do not cover, as light is required for germination. Keep the area consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

Cut flower spikes for arrangements when the lower two-thirds of the spike have opened and show color, leaving at least two or three leaves on the stem to support regrowth. Cut in early morning when stems are turgid and hydrated. The flowers will continue opening in the vase, giving you an extended display.

Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly to promote continued blooming and a neater appearance. Once flowering finishes in late summer, you can cut the entire plant back to 12 inches tall to tidy the garden and encourage basal regrowth for next season. Remove any dead or diseased foliage throughout the growing season.