GROWING NOTES

Sow seed early, when weather is still cool, to get sturdy plants that will provide many weeks of elegant and beautiful flowers. Cut flowering stalks before individual florets begin to drop for graceful indoor bouquets or air-dry indoors for everlasting arrangements. Larkspur will continue to bloom well into summer if faded flowers are removed. Agrostemma, cornflowers and Bishop’s Lace are classic cutting garden companions for larkspur.

BEST TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN

In mild winter climates, sow seeds in fall to germinate and form deep roots over the winter for a long spring bloom. In cold winter areas, sow seed as early in spring as soil can be worked. Larkspur can handle frosts and blooms best when plants get a good start in cool spring weather. Sow seeds 1 inch apart in well-drained soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Be patient; germination takes 14 to 21 days. After seedlings are well established, about 2 or 3 inches tall, thin to 10 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and discourage disease. Keep plants well watered and weeded for best performance.