Growing Rocky Mountain Columbine ( Aquilegia caerulea ) can be a rewarding experience for any nurseryman . This beautiful perennial plant is native to the Rocky Mountains and is know for its delicate , bell - work flowers in various shades of blue , purple , and white . To assure successful growth , it is important to provide the right growing conditions for this plant .
1 . sunshine : Rocky Mountain Columbine performs best in full sun to part shade . It can tolerate some shade , peculiarly in hotter region . However , to advance tidy growth and abundant flowering , it is ideal to provide at least 4 - 6 hours of verbatim sunlight per day .
2 . Soil : This industrial plant prefers average , medium moisture , and well - enfeeble soils . It is all-important to obviate poorly drain land as excessive wet can lead to base rot and other fungal disease . If your dirt tends to be heavy or clayey , look at amending it with constituent matter such as compost or well - rotted manure to improve drainage .
3 . wet : Rocky Mountain Columbine postulate coherent moisture but does not tolerate drouth well . It is crucial to keep the soil evenly moist , particularly during blistering and ironical periods . However , avert overwatering as this can also lead to root word bunk . even lacrimation , particularly during wry spells , will aid the works flourish .
4 . Soil pH : This plant prefers slightly acid to electroneutral soil with a pH reach of 5.5 to 7.0 . If your soil is extremely alkaline , you may let down the pH by adding elemental sulfur or organic matter such as peat moss .
5 . Planting : When planting Rocky Mountain Columbine , ensure that the crown is level with the soil surface . Dig a fix slightly larger than the root ball and backfill with ground , softly firming it around the works . distance the plants about 12 - 18 inches apart to allow for their natural airing drug abuse .
6 . Mulching : Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the flora will help husband moisture , suppress weed growth , and hold a more even grease temperature . Use a 2 - 3 inch layer of mulch , such as shredded barque or compost , but be sure to keep it off from the crown of the plant life to prevent rotting .
8 . Pruning : After the flowering menses , you’re able to deadhead the spend flowers to encourage continued blossom and prevent the plant from self - seeding excessively . Additionally , in recent surrender or former give , you may cut back the foliage to the understructure to push newfangled growth and clean up up the plant .
Personal experience : I have grown Rocky Mountain Columbine in my garden for several years , and it has been a delicious addition . I have set up that provide a partly shaded orbit with morning time sun and afternoon shade shape well for this plant . I also verify to keep the soil consistently moist , especially during summer heatwaves . The delicate flowers are truly a slew to behold and attract hummingbirds and butterflies to my garden .
Growing Rocky Mountain Columbine require providing full Sunday to part ghost , well - drained grease , and ordered wet . Avoid ill drained land and keep the soil evenly moist but not sloppy . Mulching , periodic fertilization , and calorie-free pruning can help keep up the plant life ’s health and advertize abundant inflorescence . With the ripe care , you’re able to enjoy the looker of Rocky Mountain Columbine in your garden for years to come .
Caroline Bates
