I would like to grow columbines (blue) at 8000 feet in my garden. The property is fenced (against deer/elk) and there have been other wild columbine grown here but not lately. I would like to know sunlight, soil, watering, wintering over, etc.
It is definitely possible to grow columbine at that elevation, and often it will do better there. Here is a link with more information on the plant: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/columbine/columbine-flower.htm
We had an extremely wet spring and summer and many of my perennials appeared to have died from root rot. Leaves turned black (some brown), wilting, and whole plant death. First the columbines, then bee balm, then garden sage and lavender. I removed the columbine, bee balm, and one of the sage, but the remaining ones are dying. What can I do? I took very special care when preparing planting beds to get good organic material and drainage, including adding perlite. The plants that were effected are in different beds. Some plants such as coreopsis and speedwell appear to be recovering from the wet conditions. Thank you.
I do have a remedy that I use personally. It is ok if you don't have, or can't get all ingredients, but the more you have the better it works. this is safe for all plants, and will not hurt you either. Just don't skimp on the soil amendment. The recipe is as follows:
First, you will want to prime the ground with dolomitic lime, then spread wettable sulfur to Kill off any infection in the soil. I Also like to spray the plant itself. Mix a few drops of one or more of these ingredients into warm water with a spoonful of coconut oil: Rosemary oil, lavender oil, neem oil, garlic oil, cinnamon extract/oil and for really bad cases, also add clove oil.
Hi BushDoctor, The species of perennials I have are Columbine (several varieties) and Gaillardia Goblin. Will these need acclimatization before planting outdoors? If so, how do I acclimate them to the outdoors? Please advise. Thank You, Steveb Well, it is best to acclimate plants to the outside world before planting, but this really depends on the species of plants. Many are hardy enough to be ok without acclimatization, but some are not. Still need more information to help you with your question? No problem! The species of perennials I have are Columbine (several varieties) and Gaillardia Goblin. Will these need acclimatization before planting outdoors? If so, how do I acclimate them to the outdoors? Please advise. Thank You, Steveb
Both are quite hardy, and don't usually need any time to acclimate. If you feel that you want to do this just to be sure, then leaving them outside for a few hours at a time each day for a week will be plenty of time to acclimate. They won't need this, but it is always good practice anyway.
I live in Michigan; little sun in our yard. no example
Your native columbine, Aquilegia canadensis, does well in shade. The hybrids want at least part sun to bloom heavily. You can plant them now after acclimating them to outdoor conditions if they have been inside. They can handle frost.
It has never dried out.
Downy mildew is most common in spring, where temperatures are cooler and rain is plentiful. Yellowing or mottling on leaves is common with a downy, gray or white coating on underside.
Powdery mildew is more common in late summer when humidity is high. Here is info on how to treat them:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/downy-mildew.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/powdery-mildew-homemade-and-organic-remedies.htm
My columbine looks very healthy and quite bushy, but has not flowered.
Columbines bloom in the spring and if planted from seed, won't bloom till the second year. Here are growing tips:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/columbine/columbine-flower.htm
I've done a web search, but not coming up with anything encouraging. I'm reluctant to buy seeds from sites like Etsy. Thanks.
We don't make recommendations but you can contact a local nursery for a recommendation or the nearest extension agent.