Growing from seed

Guide to growning lupins from seed

Lupins are grown from seed, the seed packets are likely to be a mixture of colours. Easy to grow, you can start growing your own lupins with a seed tray and a packet of seeds. Try soaking the seed the night before planting, this will encourage germination. Lupins are also self seeding, this is a great way for the plant to grow naturally.

You’ll need to protect the young shoots from slugs and snails. Keep them in a greenhouse or on a windowsill. Consider using a propagator in the early stages before planting out.

Some plants may flower in the first year. Others may only flower in the second year once fully established.

Planting out

A healthy size to plant out established lupins 9cm (3½in) or larger is Lupins benefit from either full sun or a dappled shade position and like most tall perennials, would appreciate being protected from the wind. While lupins will grow in pots, they will grow better and will be less prone to aphid (greenfly, blackfly) attacks if planted in the ground. Due to their height, lupins should be planted towards the back of a border which will also protect them from the wind.

After care

Like other perennials, the flowering period fades and you should deadhead flowers before they go to seed. This will encourage a second wave of beautiful flowers.

As Autumn approaches and flowering has finished for the year, you should cut lupins right back to the ground after collecting seed.

Likes

Lupins are sun-lovers, so give them a warm, open, bright position. They also like welldrained or even poor soil that is slightly acidic.

Dislikes

Lupins do not like heavy, wet soil. They also dislike drought when growth begins in spring. You need to find the right balance. Light shade is tolerated but full sun is better!