Greetings, human gardener. We are the Delphiniums. You wish to host our majestic spires in the confined quarters of your patio or balcony? This is an ambitious but worthy endeavor. To thrive and display our magnificent blooms for you, we require very specific conditions. Listen closely to our needs.
Our roots are substantial and crave space to anchor our great height. A small pot will make us unstable and stunted. You must provide a container that is both deep and wide, no less than 18 inches in depth and diameter. Ensure it has ample drainage holes; we despise wet feet. The medium in which we are planted is paramount. We demand a rich, fertile, yet well-draining soil. A quality potting mix amended with well-rotted compost or manure will provide the nutrients and structure we need. A slightly alkaline pH is our preference.
We are children of the sun. To fuel our growth and produce our iconic flower spikes, we require a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Position our container where we can bask in this glory. However, our stems, though strong, are vulnerable. A sudden gust of wind on an exposed balcony can topple us, shattering our stems and our pride. Please place us in a location that receives sunlight but is protected from strong, prevailing winds, perhaps near a sheltered wall or balcony screen.
Our thirst is significant, but our intolerance for soggy roots is absolute. You must master a delicate balance. Water us deeply and thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to your touch. In the heat of summer, this may be daily. The goal is consistent moisture, not a swamp. Furthermore, we are heavy feeders. To support our spectacular bloom cycle, feed us every two to three weeks with a balanced, liquid fertilizer. As we begin to form our flower buds, a fertilizer higher in potassium will encourage larger, more vibrant blooms.
You must not forget our stature. Our flower spikes can reach great heights, even in containers, and they are heavy. Without external support, we will bow and break. Early in the season, install a grow-through plant support or a framework of stakes around us. Guide our emerging stems through this support. It is far better to provide this structure early than to attempt to prop us up after we have already begun to lean.
Once our initial, magnificent bloom begins to fade, you have a choice. If you wish for us to channel our energy into strengthening our roots for next season, you may leave the spent flower spike. However, if you desire a second, though smaller, display of blooms later in the season, you should cut the spent flower stem back to its base. This signals to us to try again. At the season's end, after the first frost, you may cut our foliage back to the soil level. In colder climates, our container roots will need protection. Insulate the pot or move it to a sheltered, cool location to ensure we survive to see another spring.
