THE CULTURE OF DELPHINIUMS

Press, Volume LXX, Issue 21341, 7 December 1934, Page 22

THE CULTURE OF DELPHINIUMS

MR E. E. WILTSHIRE'S ADVICE ' For the successful cultivation of delphiniums, plant the seeds in July or, when planting growths from the main plant, in the spring, when growth has started. Plant in ordinary good garden soil in a place sheltered from high winds and where they will share the afternoon sun. The soil should be moist; a mulch of manure or vegetable matter tends to keep it moist, but this attracts slugs, to the detriment of the plant. This advice was given last evening by Mr E. E. Wiltshire in an instructive address to members of the Canterbury Horticultural Society. There was an attendance of about CO, presided over by Mr L. B. Hart. Mr Wiltshire traced the history of the plant from the time when the ancient Greeks had given it its name because they saw in it a resemblance to the dolphin. The plants should be staked fairly early and tied loosely to the stake, he said. Delphiniums were very easy to grow. Mrs E. L. King also spoke, giving advice on the art of floral decoration. Many things were essential to become successful at floral decorating, said Mrs King—originality, simplicity, colour-blending, and balance. Where colour-blending was attempted the lighter colours should predominate. Both speakers were accorded hearty Votes of thanks for their addresses.