Arroyo lupine plants (Lupinus succulentus) are the
welcome signs of spring on the rocky slopes and grasslands of the Western
United States. Here the spiky violet-blue, pea-like blooms are easily spotted
by spectators. The lush, palm-shaped leaves are an added benefit. Pollinators,
including bees and butterflies, are highly attracted to these plants. The seeds
sustain birds and small animals. Wondering how to grow an arroyo lupine? Read
on for more arroyo lupine information.
Growing Conditions for Arroyo Lupine Growing
Arroyo lupine plants tolerate light shade, but they bloom
best in full sunlight. This popular wildflower adapts to nearly any soil
type, including loam, gravel, sand, or clay. However, they often struggle
and may not survive in highly alkaline conditions.
Well-drained soil is essential, as arroyo doesn’t tolerate
soggy, waterlogged soil. Be sure not to plant arroyo lupine where the soil
remains wet during the winter.
How to Grow an Arroyo Lupine Plant
Plant arroyo lupine in early spring. Amend the soil
generously with compost
and coarse sand to improve drainage. Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the
roots. Alternatively, plant arroyo lupine seeds in late spring, and they will
bloom the following year. Before planting, scuff the seeds with sandpaper or
soak them in water for 24 to 48 hours.
Water this lupine
plant regularly the first few months or until the roots are established,
but allow the soil to dry between waterings. Afterwards, your plants will only
need water during extended periods of hot, dry weather. A layer of mulch
will conserve water and keep weeds in check; however, the plants may rot if
mulch is allowed to pile up on the crown.
No fertilizer is required in the care of arroyo lupines. A
thin layer of compost is a good idea though, especially if your soil is poor.
Be sure to keep the compost away from the crown of the plant. Arroyo lupine
plants reach heights of 1 to 4 feet (.3 to 1.2 m.). You may need to stake tall
plants in windy areas.
Arroyo lupine plants (Lupinus succulentus) are the
welcome signs of spring on the rocky slopes and grasslands of the Western
United States. Here the spiky violet-blue, pea-like blooms are easily spotted
by spectators. The lush, palm-shaped leaves are an added benefit. Pollinators,
including bees and butterflies, are highly attracted to these plants. The seeds
sustain birds and small animals. Wondering how to grow an arroyo lupine? Read
on for more arroyo lupine information.
Growing Conditions for Arroyo Lupine Growing
Arroyo lupine plants tolerate light shade, but they bloom
best in full sunlight. This popular wildflower adapts to nearly any soil
type, including loam, gravel, sand, or clay. However, they often struggle
and may not survive in highly alkaline conditions.
Well-drained soil is essential, as arroyo doesn’t tolerate
soggy, waterlogged soil. Be sure not to plant arroyo lupine where the soil
remains wet during the winter.
How to Grow an Arroyo Lupine Plant
Plant arroyo lupine in early spring. Amend the soil
generously with compost
and coarse sand to improve drainage. Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the
roots. Alternatively, plant arroyo lupine seeds in late spring, and they will
bloom the following year. Before planting, scuff the seeds with sandpaper or
soak them in water for 24 to 48 hours.
Water this lupine
plant regularly the first few months or until the roots are established,
but allow the soil to dry between waterings. Afterwards, your plants will only
need water during extended periods of hot, dry weather. A layer of mulch
will conserve water and keep weeds in check; however, the plants may rot if
mulch is allowed to pile up on the crown.
No fertilizer is required in the care of arroyo lupines. A
thin layer of compost is a good idea though, especially if your soil is poor.
Be sure to keep the compost away from the crown of the plant. Arroyo lupine
plants reach heights of 1 to 4 feet (.3 to 1.2 m.). You may need to stake tall
plants in windy areas.