How to grow Lupines for Cut Flowers

Lupines, with their tall, colourful flower spikes, are a fantastic choice for those looking to grow their own cut flowers or, more to the point, for flower farmers.  These beautiful blooms not only add a touch of elegance and charm to any floral arrangement but also offer a range of stunning colours to choose from. If you have a sunny spot in your garden and a love for vibrant flowers, growing lupine as cut flowers is a must-try.  This is how to grow Lupines for cut flowers.

Striking

First and foremost, lupines are known for their impressive height and towering flower spikes. These spikes can reach up to three feet tall, creating a dramatic presence in any garden or floral display. The vertical growth of lupine makes it a striking focal point in arrangements, adding height and structure to bouquets. With its tall stature and eye-catching blooms, lupine is sure to turn heads and impress anyone who lays eyes on it.

One of the most appealing aspects of lupines as cut flowers is their wide range of beautiful colours. From soft pastels to vibrant hues, lupines come in various shades, including pink, purple, blue, yellow, and white. This versatility allows you to create stunning bouquets with different colour schemes, from monochromatic arrangements to vibrant, multi-coloured displays. The rich and varied colour palette of lupines ensures that there is a perfect shade to complement any aesthetic or occasion.

Ideal Conditions

When it comes to growing lupines as cut flowers, they thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. These hardy perennials are relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate various soil types, as long as the drainage is good. It is important to note that lupines prefer slightly acidic soil, so adding compost or peat moss to the planting area can help create the ideal growing conditions. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.

Germination

To start growing lupines, sow the seeds directly into the garden bed in early spring or early fall. It is recommended to scarify the seeds before planting by nicking the hard outer shell with a file or sandpaper. This process helps to break the seed’s dormancy and promotes faster germination. Scatter the seeds over the prepared soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil.  Lupine seeds require light to germinate. Water the area gently to keep the soil moist, and within a few weeks, you should see the seedlings emerge.

Once the lupine plants have grown a few inches tall, thin them out to allow proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding. This will help ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms. It is also important to provide support for the tall flower spikes, as they can become top-heavy and prone to bending or breaking. The use of stakes or plant supports will help keep the lupine plants upright and prevent damage to the stems.

Vase life of Lupines

When it comes time to harvest lupines for cut flowers, wait until the bottom flowers on the spike have bloomed fully but before the top flowers have opened. This stage ensures that the blooms are at their peak and will last longer in a vase. Cut the stems early in the morning or late in the evening when the plant is well-hydrated. Use a sharp, clean pair of shears to make a clean cut at a 45-degree angle, and immediately place the stems in a bucket of water.

To maximize the vase life of lupines, remove any foliage that will be submerged in water to prevent bacterial growth. Place the stems in a clean vase filled with fresh water and add flower preservatives to help nourish the flowers and prolong their lifespan. Changing the water every few days and snipping the ends of the stems every few days will enhance water uptake and keep the blooms looking fresh.

Pollinators

Not only are lupines visually striking, but they also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to your garden. Their nectar-rich flowers are a favourite among these beneficial insects, making lupines a valuable addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. By growing lupines as cut flowers, you not only get to enjoy their beauty indoors but also contribute to the well-being of our pollinator friends.

One of the wonderful aspects of lupines is their ability to self-seed. After the flowers have finished blooming and the seed pods have formed, allow them to mature on the plant. Once the pods have turned brown and start to split open, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place. These seeds can be sown in the following season, or you can share them with fellow gardening enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in adding lupines to your garden, there are many popular varieties to choose from. Some well-loved options include Lupinus polyphyllus, Lupinus arboreus, and Lupinus perennis. Each variety has its own unique characteristics, such as flower colour, height, and blooming time. By selecting a mix of varieties, you can create a diverse and stunning lupine garden that will provide an array of cut flowers throughout the season

Conclusion

Growing lupines as cut flowers is a fantastic way to add beauty and charm to your garden while also enjoying stunning floral arrangements. With their tall stature, vibrant colours, and ability to attract pollinators, lupines are a delightful addition to any garden. By following some simple care guidelines, you can successfully grow lupines and enjoy their magnificent blooms all season long. So, why not give lupines a try and bring their elegance and vibrancy into your life?