Bearing towering spikes adorned in brilliant shades of blue, white, purple, and pink, Delphinium is one of the most flamboyant flowers one could use in their designs. These elegant flowers of the Ranunculaceae family originate in the Northern Hemisphere, with many species originating from North America, and are a popular choice among florists for their designs and arrangements, where they add height and a dramatic flair. These flowers are versatile, working well as a focal point or as a supporting element in various designs, from simple vases to elaborate wedding arches. Flower care experts, Chrysal, have vast experience with different varieties, and Delphiniums are one of those.
How Kisima Farm Excels in Delphinium Cultivation
Located on the slopes of Mount Kenya at an impressive altitude of 2,400 meters, Kisima Farm has been a premier grower of exceptional flowers since it began cultivation operations in 2001. The farm's unique high-altitude location offers ideal settings for growing Delphiniums alongside roses and other summer flowers, providing conditions that naturally promote the development of robust, large-headed flowers that meet the exacting international market standards, according to Craig Oulton, the General Manager for floriculture.
The cool temperatures and pristine mountain air at this elevation work perfectly to produce Delphiniums of exceptional quality. Plus, this Kenyan grower has a reputation for sustainable farming practices that both protect the environment and enhance the natural beauty of their flowers. Kisima's Delphiniums could be described as the perfect blend of traditional horticultural knowledge and modern innovation. Their catalogue includes Delphinium Lilac with White Bee, Delphinium Sea Waltz Blue, Delphinium Sky Blue with White Bee, Delphinium Triton Lavender, Delphinium Guardian Lavender, and Delphinium Guardian White, providing a wide variety for different designs.
Delphinium in Designs
The architectural beauty of Delphiniums makes them essential in floral design. Here, their towering presence commands attention and creates stunning focal points. These magnificent flowers have an inherent ability to transform any arrangement, bringing vertical drama that enhances both simple bouquets and elaborate installations. Wedding designers particularly love them for their ability to create romantic, garden-inspired arrangements that seem to reach skywards, while event planners rely on their bold presence to make unforgettable impressions in grand venues.
The color palette of Delphiniums also offers practically infinite creative possibilities, from the deepest ocean blues that arouse a sense of tranquility and depth to soft pinks that speak of gentle romance, to white varieties that bring elegance and purity to bridal arrangements, and purple tones that add rich sophistication to seasonal settings like autumn celebrations. Also, each of the petals of the Delphinium opens gradually, creating a natural color-intensity gradient that adds dynamism and life to arrangements.
Chrysal’s Expert Care Guidelines
Chrysal, a leader in post-harvest flower care, knows just too well how delicate Delphiniums can be. Their petals can be easily damaged if not handled with caution, hence the need to provide the right care regimen for these flowers. Essentially, from the farm to the vase, Delphiniums require careful attention to preserve their natural beauty and extend the life of their flowers. Chrysal has, therefore, developed specialized treatments that address their unique needs at every stage.
Delphinium Care Tips for Growers
For growers, optimal post-harvest treatment is key to ensuring maximum vase life and quality. The key to maintaining Delphinium quality lies in immediate protection against ethylene damage, which can cause premature wilting, bud drop, and the yellowing of leaves that diminishes the flower's visual impact. Chrysal AVB provides this crucial protection, while Chrysal RVB Clear Intensive stimulates water uptake, ensuring that stems remain hydrated and strong throughout the supply chain. This combination creates the perfect conditions for the flowers to arrive at their destination in peak condition, while ensuring they last long.
Delphinium Care Tips for Florists
Professional florists should understand that success with Delphiniums begins with perfect hygiene practices. Clean tools and fresh buckets prevent bacterial growth that can block stems and shorten vase life. Then, condition the Delphiniums with Chrysal Professional 2 to provide just the right amount of nutrients while keeping the flowers in top condition without opening too fast, which keeps them fresh, upright, and ready for beautiful floral designs. This careful balance ensures that florists have adequate time to incorporate the flowers into their designs while maintaining their structural integrity and visual appeal.
Delphinium Home Care Tips
At home, proper Delphinium care enhances the longevity and freshness of the flowers. Their successful home care begins with preparation, starting with a thoroughly clean vase that eliminates bacteria before they can take hold. Sharp, clean scissors or a knife should be used to cut stems 2-3 cm at an angle, creating the maximum surface area for water absorption while preventing the stem from sitting flat against the vase bottom.
Then, use Chrysal flower food like the Recyclable Sachets or Paper Sachet in their vase water, which helps maintain the Delphinium’s beautiful color and strength for up to 60% longer. These provide required sugars, acidifiers, and antibacterial agents, addressing the cut flower needs, replacing the nutrients they would naturally receive from their root system, while maintaining the proper pH balance for optimal water uptake.
Placement also plays a key role in maximizing Delphinium's longevity in arrangements. Direct sunlight and heat hasten their aging, while drafts can cause dehydration. The ideal location provides gentle, indirect light that allows the flowers to be appreciated without subjecting them to stress. With these care tips, your Delphinium will last longer in arrangements or simply as a statement piece in the home, showcasing its natural beauty for as long as possible.
Feature image by @botanika.rs. Header image by JamesDeMers.
