Why Grow Lupins?
Lupins are a big favourite among plant breeders and are a real show plant that often has pride of place at the Chelsea flower show. Lupins are easy to grow from seed and Suttons have a wide range of Lupin seeds to choose from to grow. Check out the multi-coloured ‘Russel mixed’ or the bicoloured ‘Pink Fairy’.
Growing Lupins From Seed
Lupins are biennial and need to be sown between spring and mid-summer for the following year.
- Sow Lupin flower seeds directly into drills, use a garden line if sowing in large groups. Marked into a well-prepared seedbed, make sure they are clearly labelled so you remember where they are if sowing into a mixed border
- These plants grow in sunny or partial shade. They require rich well-drained soil to thrive
- Dig in well-rotted manure prior to sowing. Attention to Irrigation when the plants are young or during prolonged periods of dry weather. They will enjoy a liquid feed of Seaweed extract in their first summer and a Potash feed the following year
- Staking and supporting may be important, especially if growing on a windy site, use canes and twine, tying the twine in a figure of eight to avoid damaging their soft stems
- Beware of slugs and snails and aphids, use and traps & barriers for the former
- Deadhead for second flush, Prune back after flowering to 6 inches at end of season.
Germinating Lupine Seeds
Lupine germination usually takes 15 to 20 days. As the seedlings develop, thin them in stages to achieve the final spacing of 30cm apart. (You must ensure that all weeds are removed when thinning the seedlings; especially during the early stages.)
Lupins are great in a mixed planting space with veg and herbs to create a natural balance. Think about plant combinations that you’d like to see with your Lupins, planning will pay off when getting them to work with other plants.
Remember Lupins will grow in partial shade, so this gives options. Grow in large drifts for maximum impact. This plant is also great for attracts bees and butterflies.
Buy Lupin Seeds UK from Suttons
