Demystifying What Larkspur Seedlings Look Like

Larkspur is a beloved annual flower that adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to any garden. But before the colorful spires of blooms appear the plants start as tiny seedlings. Knowing what larkspur seedlings look like helps ensure proper identification and care in the early stages. In this article we’ll explore larkspur seed germination, seedling growth habits, and tips for caring for these delicate annuals.

Larkspur Seed Germination

Larkspur seeds are fairly small and black. When sowing them directly outdoors, the seeds need darkness to germinate and will emerge in 14-21 days. Indoors, larkspur can be started in containers 5-7 weeks before transplanting outside after danger of frost. Ideal germination temperatures are around 55°F. Here’s what to expect once they sprout:

• Cotyledons (seed leaves) emerge first. These first round leaves look nothing like mature larkspur foliage.

• The cotyledons are followed by the first true leaves, which resemble mature larkspur leaves but on a smaller scale.

• Stems and leaves will be light green at first.

• Seedlings start off short and compact, slowly stretching and growing taller as they mature.

Proper identification is crucial at the seedling stage Some key traits that indicate larkspur include

• Finely divided, fern-like foliage on delicate stems

• Leaves are smooth and hairless with deeply cut lobes.

• Alternate leaf arrangement along the rapidly elongating main stem.

• Fast-growing taproot that gives seedlings their upright habit.

Caring for Larkspur Seedlings

Larkspur seedlings need attentive care while they establish. Here are some tips:

• Keep seedlings consistently moist but not saturated. Water when the top inch of soil dries out.

• Grow seedlings at 60-70°F until ready to transplant outdoors.

• Give seedlings ample light. Supplement natural light with grow lights to prevent leggy, stretched stems.

• Transplant outdoors once seedlings reach 4-6 inches tall. Harden off first.

• Space transplants 12-18 inches apart in loose, fertile soil in full sun.

• Protect new transplants from slugs, snails, cutworms, and other chewing pests.

• Stake taller varieties to prevent flopping in wind and rain.

• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering into summer.

• Larkspurs thrive in cool weather and may decline in hot, humid summers. Provide afternoon shade if needed.

With attentive care while establishing, larkspur seedlings will reward you with a bounty of graceful, colorful blooms all season long.

What Mature Larkspur Plants Look Like

Once larkspur seedlings mature into established plants, they take on their classic form:

• Plants reach 2-4 feet tall depending on variety.

• Flowering stems stand tall with sparse, finely cut foliage.

• Flowers are produced on long racemes at the tops of stems.

• Blooms appear in shades of pink, red, white, blue, purple, and multi-colors.

• Flowers resemble small snapdragons with a spur on the back.

• Leaves clasp the upright stems in an alternate pattern.

• Foliage is lacy and fern-like with finely divided leaflets.

• Plants have a single dominant central stem with smaller side stems.

Why Proper Identification of Seedlings Matters

Identifying larkspur seedlings correctly is important for several reasons:

• Prevents weeding out wanted plants. Larkspur seedlings can be mistaken for weeds.

• Ensures proper growing conditions. Knowing it’s larkspur means understanding its needs.

• Prevents spread of unwanted plants. Weeds allowed to grow will compete with larkspur.

• Avoids toxic lookalikes. Some poisonous plants resemble larkspur seedlings.

• Allows assessment of health and growth progress. Familiarity aids troubleshooting.

• Enables tagging and labeling. This helps track varieties as seedlings grow.

• Confirms viability of purchased seeds. You can ensure correct plants sprouted.

Taking time to learn the nuances of larkspur seedling identification will pay off all season long with a thriving crop of this quintessential cottage garden flower.

A Closer Look at Larkspur Seeds and Seedlings

To help identify larkspur, here are some details on the seeds and seedlings:

Seeds

• Small, oval, flat, and black

• Size ranges from 1.5-2.5 mm long

• Surface has a faint net-like pattern

• Seeds are contained in heart-shaped pods that split open at maturity

Cotyledons

• First seed leaves are round with a blunt tip

• Approximately 5 mm wide

• Smooth surface and margin

• Pale green color

First True Leaves

• Resemble mature leaves but smaller

• Divided into linear lobes and leaflets

• Alternate arrangement along stem

• Light green color

Seedling Stems

• Emerge upright from taproot

• Slender and smooth

• Pale green initially, darkening with age

• Leaves spread outwards as stem elongates

Tips for Successfully Growing Larkspur from Seed

Here are some top tips for getting larkspur seedlings off to a great start:

• Source fresh seeds each year for best germination rates. Seeds 3+ years old may not sprout well.

• Pre-chill seeds for 5-7 days at 35°F before sowing to boost germination.

• Sow seeds 1⁄4 inch deep in loose, fertile soil. Cover lightly with fine vermiculite.

• Maintain consistent moisture for seeds. Water gently to avoid washing away.

• Allow 14-21 days for emergence. Be patient; seeds germinate slowly.

• Grow seedlings at 55-60°F with ample light to prevent stretching.

• Harden off seedlings well before transplanting into garden.

• Prepare planting beds with compost and keep moist until plants establish.

• Stake tall varieties and provide wind protection when planted outside.

Follow these tips and you’ll soon be rewarded with a splendid show of larkspur blooms swaying gracefully atop upright stems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Larkspur Seedlings

Here are answers to some common questions about larkspur seedlings:

How big do larkspur seedlings get before transplanting?

Aim to transplant larkspur seedlings once they reach about 4-6 inches tall and the roots have developed sufficiently to handle being moved. This usually takes 5-7 weeks from seed sowing.

How far apart should larkspur seedlings be spaced?

Space larkspur plants 12-18 inches apart in the garden or landscape bed. The mature size of the variety you’re growing will determine ideal spacing.

How can you tell if larkspur seedlings are healthy?

Healthy larkspur seedlings will have green leaves, an upright habit, and good vigor. Avoid leggy, weak, or discolored seedlings when transplanting.

What are some common problems with larkspur seedlings?

Stretching, lack of growth, fungus/damping off, insect damage, and root disturbances during transplanting are potential problems to watch for.

Should larkspur seedlings be fertilized?

While not mandatory, a dilute liquid fertilizer or compost tea 1-2 weeks after transplanting can encourage growth. Avoid over-fertilizing seedlings.

Conclusion

Identifying larkspur once seeds germinate and seedlings emerge is an important gardening skill. An understanding of the plant’s growth habits, leaf shape, and characteristics will ensure proper care right from the start. Pay close attention as those tiny sprouts grow into the elegant Larkspur flowers we know and love. The effort will pay off manifold once these annuals begin gracing your garden with their captivating blooms.