Plants should not be moved if possible, as this process is associated with considerable stress for them. However, sometimes such a measure cannot be avoided, especially if a delphinium that has become too large needs to be divided. As a rule, all delphinium varieties tolerate transplanting very well.
When and how should you transplant delphiniums?
Dark spur should ideally be transplanted in the fall after pruning. Dig a planting hole twice the size of the root ball, mix the excavated material with compost and gravel, plant the plant, water well and mulch the root area.
The best time to transplant
The delphinium is a typical summer bloomer and is therefore best transplanted either in early spring or after pruning in autumn. If possible, it is preferable to transplant in autumn so that the plant can grow in peace in the new location. In spring, the delphinium needs its energy to sprout new shoots and leaves, as well as to form flowers, and can therefore quickly be overwhelmed by the task of developing additional new roots.
Share delphiniums at the same time
Delphinium is relatively easy to propagate by dividing, although this method is the best option for propagation, especially for the tall, perennial varieties.
Transplanting delphiniums – this is how it works
The delphinium can be planted in spring as soon as the ground is frost-free. In the fall, it's best to wait a few days until after pruning before doing this. Choose a location that is as sunny as possible with loose, nutrient-rich and moist soil. If necessary, the soil should be improved by adding compost (€10.00 on Amazon) and/or humus soil and gravel.
Step-by-step instructions for transplanting delphiniums
- First of all, dig out a sufficiently large planting hole at the new location.
- This should be about twice the size of the circumference of the plant's root ball.
- Mix the excavated material thoroughly with compost and some gravel.
- Pour plenty of water into the planting hole.
- Now loosen the soil around the delphinium to be transplanted.
- Prick off the root ball all around with a spade.
- Choose the largest possible radius.
- Now carefully lift the plant out with the digging fork.
- Carefully remove any stuck soil, but leave some old soil on the plant.
- Now carry out the division if necessary.
- Place the delphinium in the new location.
- Water the plant well.
- Mulch the root area to provide the “shady feet” preferred by delphiniums.
Tips & Tricks
Experienced gardeners always add a little of the soil from the old location to the new planting hole when transplanting. This measure is intended to make it easier for the plant to grow.
