Columbine Plants Views
They are used as food plants by some Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) caterpillars. These are mainly of noctuid moths – noted for feeding on many poisonous plants without harm – like Cabbage Moth (Mamestra brassicae), Dot Moth (Melanchra persicariae) and Mouse Moth (Amphipyra tragopoginis). The Engrailed (Ectropis crepuscularia), a geometer moth, also uses columbine as larval foodplant.
Pre-started Columbine plants... Most of us don't have the time or the patience to grow Columbines from seed, nor do we want pots of dirt in our refrigerator. So we purchase pre-started plants. Columbines can be found in several container sizes. I've seen them in packs, 3k", 4d", 6u" and 1 gallon pots. When purchasing pre-started plants... try to find out if the plants were raised in Colorado. Colorado grown Columbines have an edge over imported Columbines usually found in the mass markets. Colorado grown Columbines are already adapted to our unique climate and have a much higher survival rate.
The site... Columbines will grow in full sun in Colorado, but they perform best where they are lightly shaded from hot afternoon sun. Columbines will adapt to most garden soils providing the soil is well drained. Ideally plant your Columbine in soil that is rich in organic matter, moist, and doesn't dry out to quickly. Planting Columbine's near a south facing wall is generally a death sentience. Radiated heat will surly dry out and cook the plants. Most varieties of Columbine will thrive at elevations as high as 9,000 feet... a few varieties do well up to 10,000 feet.
Feeding... If you didn't add Osmocote at planting... Columbines should be fertilized several times per season. The top soil could be top-dressed with a granular feed, or the plants could be fed monthly with a liquid fertilizer like Miracle Grow. Feeding all your outdoor plants regularly will help to create a healthy root system, lush foliage, and large vibrant flowers.
Columbine Plants Images
