Lupine, Perennial

Lupine flowers are a tall spire in deep blue to purple shades that look like traffic cones. They are irresistibly beautiful and definitely perfect in the summer season. They can grow even in very difficult environments including poor soils, elevated areas or in places with cool summers.  

How To Grow a Perennial Lupine?

Sowing The Seeds:

Lupines have hard outer shells. For best germination, the seeds first need to be soaked in water for about 24 hours. You can also scarify them using a knife or any rough material (like sandpaper). Start growing the seeds indoors for 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. You can also directly plant them outside when the weather gets warm and the seeds are far from the danger of the frost. Seeds need to be sowed in the depth of 1/8” under topsoil. By doing so, this will allow them to still be reached by the sunlight.

Germination Process:

• The perennial lupine will begin to germinate in 7 to 14 days after sowing
• It will grow to a height of 12 to 36 inches tall.
• Spaces should be 12 to 18 inches apart from each other.

Growing Requirement:

• The perennial flowering plant requires full sun in cooler climates and filered sun in warm climates.
• Temperatures should be always around 60F to 70F.
• It does best in sandy, well draining soil that is slightly acidic (>pH 4.0)
• Light compost is necessary to increase drainage.
• You can water the soil daily until the seeds germinate and lessen it just enough to provide the moisture it needs.

Caring for Lupine:

Water – Let the soil dry out between watering. Once they are deeply rooted, they can survive even in dry conditions. They will only require watering regularly during times of drought.

Fertilizer – Lupine has the ability to fix nitrogen to the soil. They do not typically require fertilization.

Pest and Diseases – Just like other plants, Lupines can encounter some pests and diseases while growing. Some of the pests are aphids and powdery mildew. They cause a lot of damage to the leaves and flowers. Aphids can be controlled naturally with ladybugs or with the use of organic insecticidal soap spray. Powdery mildew can be prevented by avoiding watering plants on their leaves. It can be treated organically with copper sulfate fungicide spray. If the natural method seems to be not effective, you can prune the affected area back to the ground.

Packet Information

All parts of this plant are poisonous, including the seeds. Exercise extreme caution around children and pets. The purchaser assumes all liability relating to the use of this product.

Size: 1.5g (~55 seeds)

Open Pollinated Heirloom