Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ is a favored choice among gardeners, known for its striking presence and vibrant blooms. This elegant perennial enhances garden spaces with its tall, stately form and distinctive blue flowers. Its aesthetic appeal makes it a focal point in various garden designs.
Understanding Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’
Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ is a tall, upright perennial, reaching 5 to 6 feet (150-180 cm) tall with a spread of 1.5 to 2.5 feet (50-75 cm) at maturity. It is part of the Belladonna Group, characterized by its highly branched inflorescence and significant side-spikes. The plant features dark foliage and produces compact spires of vivid blue, semi-double flowers, often with a purple eye, creating a dramatic visual impact.
The name ‘Volkerfrieden’ translates from German to ‘Peace of Nations’. This variety is known for its reliable performance and is frequently used in commercial cut flower production due to its robust nature and striking color. It offers two main blooming periods, in early and late summer, with a second flush of flowers extending its appeal and ensuring a prolonged season of color.
Planting and Site Selection
Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ thrives in full sun, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, though it can tolerate partial shade. Adequate air circulation around the plants is also beneficial.
It prefers fertile, well-drained soil. While it can adapt to various soil types, including chalky, loamy, and sandy, the soil must allow for good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as delphiniums are susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. A slightly alkaline to neutral soil pH (5.8 to 7.0) is recommended. Enriching the soil with organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, before planting helps improve fertility and drainage. Plant container-grown Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ in spring or early summer, allowing establishment before extreme temperatures.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent care maintains the vigor and abundant blooms of Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’. Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not saturated, especially during active growth periods. Delphiniums do not tolerate sitting in water, so proper soil drainage remains crucial.
Fertilization supports robust growth and prolific flowering. Apply a balanced liquid feed every couple of weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, a consistent liquid feed program with nitrogen levels around 125 ppm can be effective.
Due to their tall and upright growth habit, Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ benefits from staking to prevent flower spikes from bending or breaking, particularly in windy conditions. Stake plants when young, before the flower spikes become too heavy. Deadheading, the removal of spent flower spikes, encourages a second flush of blooms, extending the flowering season. Cut the spent spike back to a smaller flowering side shoot to promote new growth.
Propagation
Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ can be propagated by seed, though this may lead to some variability from the parent plant. Seeds can be started indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Sow seeds in a moist, warm, and bright location; germination typically occurs within 10 to 14 days.
Division is effective for maintaining plant vigor every three to four years, involving separating the clump into smaller sections. Basal cuttings, taken in early spring, are another reliable method. A 3 to 4-inch stem cutting should be taken from the base, with lower leaves removed and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone before planting in moist potting soil. Roots typically develop within 3-4 weeks.
Addressing Common Challenges
Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ can encounter several common challenges. Pests like slugs and snails can cause damage, especially to young plants. Aphids are frequent pests, manageable with insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Earwigs and delphinium leaf miners may also affect the foliage.
Diseases include powdery mildew, appearing as a white, powdery coating on leaves, particularly in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Crown rot is a serious issue, often resulting from overly wet soil conditions and poor drainage. Ensuring well-drained media can help mitigate root rot. Black blotch and various viruses are also potential concerns. Prompt identification and treatment, along with maintaining good cultural practices, are important for managing these issues.
Winter Preparation
Prepare Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ for winter by cutting all growth back to ground level after flowering and foliage withers, typically in autumn. This practice helps remove any potential overwintering sites for pests or diseases.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant for insulation and protection during colder months. Shredded leaves or compost are suitable mulching materials, which also help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. This protective layer is particularly helpful in regions experiencing severe winters, safeguarding the plant from freezing temperatures. Ensure good drainage around the crown during winter to prevent rot.