Do Larkspur Seeds Need Light to Germinate?: A Quick Guide to Larkspur Germination and Care

Larkspur (Delphinium consolida) is a popular garden flower known for its tall spikes and vibrant colors. If you’re planning to grow larkspur from seed, one common question is whether these seeds need light to germinate. The answer is: larkspur seeds actually require darkness to germinate effectively. In practice, this means you should sow the seeds about 1/8 inch deep into the soil and then lightly cover them, either by sifting a thin layer of soil on top or pressing them gently into the surface. Avoid exposing the seeds directly to bright light during this stage.

Another crucial factor in larkspur germination is temperature. Larkspur seeds prefer cool soil temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 55°F (10°C-13°C). Many gardeners achieve higher germination rates by chilling the seeds in the refrigerator for a week or two before planting—this mimics their natural winter dormancy and “tricks” them into sprouting when sown.

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Tips 1:

For best results, sow larkspur seeds outdoors in late fall or very early spring, as exposure to natural cold improves germination. Ensure the planting site offers good drainage, as larkspur doesn’t like “wet feet.”

FAQ

Q: Do larkspur seeds require light to germinate?

A: No, larkspur seeds germinate best in darkness. Cover seeds lightly with soil when planting.

Q: Should I refrigerate larkspur seeds before planting?

A: Yes, chilling larkspur seeds in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks mimics winter dormancy and improves germination rates.

Q: What is the best soil temperature for larkspur germination?

A: Larkspur seeds germinate best in cool soils, typically between 50°F and 55°F (10°C-13°C).

Q: Can I start larkspur seeds indoors?

A: While you can, they generally do better when direct-sown outdoors because they dislike root disturbance during transplanting.

Q: How deep should I plant larkspur seeds?

A: Sow seeds about 1/8 inch deep and cover lightly with soil to block light.