How to Make Delphinium Alkaline Soil
Delphiniums are tall, spiked biennial flowers that range in color from blues to purples to white or pink. Their stalks consist of many small flowers, both single- and double-ruffled. They bloom from early to mid-summer. Delphinium plants range in height from 2 to 4 feet. They perform well in a garden location with full sun and moist, well-draining soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline. Crushed limestone soil amendment can be added to the soil as needed to make it more alkaline. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Amend the Soil
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Determine the soil pH with a simple home test kit. If soil is 7.0 or above it is already alkaline and does not need to be amended.
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Spread crushed limestone over the delphinium-growing area at the rate of 5 lbs. per 100 square feet if the pH test shows amendment is needed. Crushed limestone breaks down more slowly than "quick lime" products, which may burn plants. Apply it in the autumn to allow the limestone to act on the soil pH before the spring growing season.
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Mix the limestone into the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Sprinkle the area with water. Natural rainfall will continue the incorporation of the limestone into the soil.
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Tips & Warnings
Wood ash also raises soil pH. Wood ash contains up to 70 percent calcium carbonate, as well as potassium, phosphorus, and many trace elements. It should be applied at a rate of 2 lbs. per 100 square feet.
Mature compost has a neutral pH and can be added to any soil. Organic matter improves soil aeration, reduces nutrient leaching and increases beneficial microbial activity.
The pH factor determines how well a plant absorbs nutrients in the soil. Plants absorb nutrients only when they are dissolved in water and it is the pH factor that influences solubility.
Applying chemical fertilizer makes soil more acidic.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Delphinium image by Jeffrey Banke from Fotolia.com
