Lecture by Alan Chadwick in New Market, Virginia, 1979
Lecture 25.3, Plant Study: The Delphinium
An Introduction to Alan Chadwick's Lectures and a Glossary of Terms
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Contents of this Segment:
Varieties of the delphinium, some with hollow and some with solid stems. The true blue of the delphinium is unique. Propagation from seed. History of Frank Reinelt's development of cactus varieties. His development of the Pacific Giant delphinium strain. The harmony that the gardener creates with plants affects the inner life of those who experience the beauty of the garden, and this will endure for long after. Contrast with the utilitarian farming practices in use today, where destructive forms of agriculture are the norm. Means of keeping out slugs and snails off the foliage. The blooming periods in spring and fall. Slight shade is advantageous. Crown division as the most effective method to insure that new plants are true to type. Details of propagation by seed, either in spring or fall. Divide crowns in early spring. The huge gift of nature's bounty. Questions and answers. The use of deep seed boxes and rich soil in propagation. Top dressings of manure-compost mulch during summer dormancy. Longevity of the delphinium as a cut-flower. Alan's impressions of farms in the nearby valley that he observed during an outing with Acacia Downs. (27:22)