FLOWER-LUPIN MIX + inoculant

How to Grow Lupin Mix

1. Select a sunny spot or an area with partial shade. Lupins thrive in composted well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
2. Sown directly in the garden after the last frost date in your area, or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
3.  Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 30 cm (12 inches) and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.
4. Soak the seeds in water before planting, for 12–24 hours to soften the seed coat and improve germination.  Be aware that soaking seeds too long can rot the seed, so test with a few hours of soaking on a couple of seeds before you soak them for 12 to 24 hours.
5. Plant the seeds 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) deep and space seeds 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart to allow room for growth.
6. Water the area gently but thoroughly after sowing to settle the soil.  Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during germination. Avoid overwatering.
7. Mulch lightly around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
8. Fertilise them every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertiliser.
9. Sow seeds in spring or autumn when soil temperatures range between 15–20°C (59–68°F).
10. Thin seedlings once they emerge (typically within 10–14 days), to maintain proper spacing.
11. Deadhead faded blooms to encourage continuous flowering and prevent self-seeding.
12. In colder climates, protect plants with a layer of mulch during winter to prevent frost damage.
13. Stake taller plants if grown in windy areas to prevent them from toppling over.

A notable feature of these mixes is their potential to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them ideal for ecological gardening.  However, gardeners should note their sensitivity to overly wet soil, as they prefer well-drained, slightly acidic environments. One unusual benefit of lupins is their nitrogen-fixing ability, which enriches the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, while stunning in bloom, some parts of lupins can be toxic if ingested, necessitating care in gardens frequented by pets or children.

Heritage of Russell and Hartweggii Mix Lupins

The heritage of Russell and Hartwegii lupins lies in their development as hybrids combining the robust, striking colors of the Russell hybrids with the refined elegance of the Hartwegii varieties. These lupins are known for their ornamental value, producing vibrant spikes of flowers that thrive in a variety of temperate climates. The Russell hybrids were first bred in the early 20th century by George Russell, whose work focused on enhancing the flower’s color palette and hardiness. Hartwegii lupins, native to the Americas, contribute a delicate and varied genetic foundation that improves pest resistance and adaptability.