Delphinium, Candle Delphinium, Larkspur 'Black Knight'

I grew from seed the strain "Tall Black Knight" (Thompson & Morgan). Although germination is a bit of trouble because of cold stratifica...Read Moretion, I was pleased with results. From 1 packet of seeds, six plants survived. I probably could have a much better yield if I had put in a bit more effort. Most plants have dark purple flowers as expected, but one is lavender - gray in color. I planted them in the garden late last spring and they flowered in the fall. Now flowering in the second year, in June. I am pleased with how long the flowers have lasted, nearly a month. Perhaps this is due to the cool wet spring this year. I will be interested to see if they return next year.

Two years ago I got a garden and I wanted Delphinium to be in it so much. I've read that it's not an easy plant in most gardens and I can...Read More confirm that by now.
Complicating factor: my goal is to raise everything from seed.
Fresh Delphiunium seed germinates rather easily, but gets also easily prone te mildew or just stops growing.
And for the seedlings who make it and are planted out: all slugs in your garden are just waiting for this plant.They ignore even hostas when a fresh delphinium is around.
But I succeeded. My experience is:
Sowing:
They love a cold period. I use the "deno" method but put them in my refrigerator for at least six weeks in their wet coffee-filters. There the healthy seeds will sprout and after that I put them in their cells.
Planting out: wait until you have strong growth. Better size them up in pots one time before planting out.
In the garden: They love full sun and nutition but hate wet feet. So put them on a raised bed.
Slugs: The only thing that's working here (on wet clay) is copper rings. Really keeps the slugs away.
And after all the effort and I bet some luck: the second year they emerge early in spring and become lovely. Indeed the pride of my garden!! (see pictures)
And when planted en masse in a sheltered place or when other higher plants surround them, they can do without support.

planted 2010 zone 3a
the 'black knight' has the black bee

reached 7 feet tall
required fertilizing
ne...Read Moreeded support
visited by hummingbirds

Beautiful and impressive delphinium from the "Pacific Giant" line. Deep blue with a black eye. Mature blooms can be harvested and dried...Read More for use in fall arrangements and add a particularly colorful touch (air dry upsidedown).

Plants are generally short-lived, needing to be replaced about every 3 years - but well worth it.. If first flush blossoms are harvested, the plant will rebloom.