Planting and caring for an unusual lupine flower. Perennial lupine flowers - how to plant, grow and care for the plant

Garden flora is so diverse that any summer resident can choose a plant to his liking. Perennials are famous for their special beauty and ease of care. Experienced gardeners say about growing such plants “an activity for the lazy.” In fact, this is not the case, because beginners need to make a lot of effort to enjoy the luxurious flowering. This article will talk about the perennial lupine plant: planting and care, photos, nuances of reproduction, preparation for winter. A competent approach to growing a flower will help not only to get a beautiful flower bed, because lupine is famous as an excellent fertilizer.

Perennial lupine: description, photo

The genus Lupinus consists of 200 species of annual and perennial plants. They are widespread in the Mediterranean, Africa and in the vast North America. Representatives of the genus have the habit of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and subshrubs.

This is interesting! From the Latin word lupus, translated as “wolf,” comes the popular name for exotics—“wolf beans.”

In the first year of life, the perennial develops a basal rosette. Peduncles appear only in the second year. During this time, the bush develops many shoots with silvery pubescence. Plant height is 80-120 cm. The stems are well developed and powerful. The shoots have weak edges and a small edge.

The leaves sit on very long petioles. Each leaf consists of 9-10 lanceolate lobes of rich green color. The palmate-compound plates are connected by a cushion having a long awl-shaped stipule. The foliage is located on the shoots in regular order. Top part the plates are practically bare, with sparse hairs, the underside has dense pubescence.

The exotic horse system has a very interesting structure. The type of root system is taproot. The main root goes 1.5-2 m deep into the soil. The flower belongs to the Legume family, the side roots are modified. On the surface of the root lobe there are tuberous chambers that serve as a reservoir for bacteria. Bacteria actively absorb nitrogen from environment, enriching the earth with trace elements.

Know! The symbiosis of the root system with bacteria allows lupine to survive on depleted soils, because some species grow in deserts.

When the exotic blooms, it seems that the garden is on fire colorful candles. The apical inflorescences have a racemose shape, the buds are arranged in whorls. The brush is loose, long, blooming from below. Nature has awarded exotic flowers with blue, white, and pink corollas. Breeders added red, yellow, orange, lilac, cream and violet tones to the range. As well as numerous garden forms with multi-colored petals. The flowers of the plant are zygomorphic, similar to pea flowers, and sit on long stalks.

After wilting, elongated flat beans containing 6-9 oval seeds are formed. The shape and size of the seed depend on the species. After complete ripening, the dried bean cracks, scattering the seed. Therefore, when growing lupine next spring you can find young shoots far beyond the habitat of the queen cell.

Exotic is highly valued not only as a flowering crop; the seeds contain high-quality oil and 50% protein. The aerial part is also rich in proteins and does not contain food inhibitors. These qualities were highly appreciated by farmers, because breeders were able to develop low-alkaloid forms used as a fodder crop.

The seeds are fed to fish in fish farms. “Wolf beans” also have a place in the agricultural sector - the plant is used as an environmentally friendly nitrogen fertilizer.

In Europe, there is a massive fight against introduced American species. Sowing some varieties is prohibited by law, because when they grow, they take away natural environment in local species.

Important! When planting representatives of the genus Lupinus in the garden, be prepared to fight self-seeding.

Features of growing a plant

If you decide to grow colorful candles in your garden, be prepared to wait a whole year for them to appear. Grown seedlings bloom only in the second year. They do not require specific care. Wolf beans can be grown by seedlings and direct sowing in the ground.

Although exotic is considered a perennial and lives up to 10 years, when the bush reaches five years of age, you may notice partial death. After 5-6 years, replace the bushes with young shoots. This must be taken into account if you want to enjoy flowering without the interruptions necessary for growing seedlings.

Perennial lupine species, varieties

The genus Lupinus includes 200 species, but only a few are used in cultivation. Of the perennial representatives of the genus, only 2 species are classified as cultivated varieties - Lupinus polyphyllus (multifoliate) and Lupinus arboreus (tree-like). Tree variety not grown in Russia due to its heat-loving nature.

Tree lupine - a perennial subshrub reaching a height of 2 meters. Straight shoots branch well, forming a crown 1 m wide. Palmate-compound leaves are grayish-green in color and have dense pubescence. The apical inflorescences are yellow and white, sometimes there are purple tones. Blooms towards the end of summer. It is a valuable material for breeding work.

Know! The tree-like variety belongs to the eighth frost resistance zone. This means that already at minus 6–10⁰C the bush will freeze. Cultivated mainly in Europe - Holland, France, Belgium, North Britain.

Lupine multileaf originally grew in northwestern North America. The exotic has penetrated into many corners of the world through introduction. So, in Russia it has completely naturalized on European territory, but individual specimens are found in the taiga. Perennial belongs to rare species, found on the sides of highways and forest edges.

The view is herbaceous plant with straight, strong shoots. The height of the bush ranges from 80–120 cm. Leaves equipped with long petioles are alternately located on almost bare stems. Each blade contains from 9 to 15 lanceolate leaves with a thick silvery edge on the underside. The natural color of the buds is blue.

Flowering stems appear in June. The length of the brush is 35 cm. With proper care, including timely removal of faded inflorescences, re-blooming is observed by the end of summer. The decorative period lasts 25–35 days. Inside the pubescent beans there are round brown seeds with a diameter of 0.6 cm. Germination lasts up to 4 years. One gram contains up to 45 seeds. How cultural flowering plant grown since 1826.

Interesting fact! Despite the abundance of colors of elegant candles, exotic is not particularly popular among gardeners. This is due to the fact that its familiar appearance is associated with natural coloring of blue color.

Thanks to its unpretentiousness and high frost resistance, the multi-leaf variety was noticed by breeders. Many years of work on hybridization have made it possible to obtain many cultivars, among which there are bushes with single-colored (one shade) or two-colored corollas. The most popular hybrids are:

1. Apricot is a 0.9 m tall cultivar. Orange clusters up to 40 cm long appear by mid-June. Decorative 30–35 days.
2. Princess Juliana - variety height 100–110 cm. Dense candles up to 40 cm in length consist of white and pink buds. It blooms in early summer and is pleasing to the eye for about a month.
3. My Castle is a hybrid 0.8–1 m high with carmine-scarlet corollas in cylindrical inflorescences 30–35 cm long. Flowering in early and late summer. The decorative period is 30 days.
4. Albus is a bush 1–1.1 m tall with white thirty-centimeter candles. Blooms in June, decorative throughout the month.
5. Yellow candelabra - height up to 1 m. The cultivar blooms in July with yellow tassels 30 cm long. Repeated flowering is observed in early September.
6. Carmineus - height 90–100 cm. As the name suggests, the bush produces red flower stalks up to 40 cm long. The decorative period begins in June and lasts 30–35 days.
7. Countess is a very beautiful meter-long variety with large white and pink two-color corollas. It has cylindrical racemes 40–50 cm long. Buds appear in July and again in September.
8. Rubinkönig - height about a meter. Lush cylindrical inflorescences reach 40 cm. The color of the corollas is ruby-violet. Blooms in June.
9. The Ruler is a luxurious cultivar of classic blue color. Inflorescence 40 cm, height 1 meter.
10. Monsieur Pierre - among his fellows, he stands out for his short stature, only 50 cm. At the same time, he produces dense orange-red candles measuring 40–45 cm.
11. White is a real giant, 1.2–1.3 m tall, with long white cylindrical inflorescences. Good for cutting.

Attention! Hybrid White reproduces exclusively by seed.

George Russell made a huge contribution to the selection of multileaf varieties. The breeder developed a mass of monochromatic hybrids, which marked the beginning of a new population of single-color varieties. Russell's seedlings have been winners of numerous exhibitions. Of the single-color varieties, the following are popular in Russia: pink Schlossfrau; brick red Main Schloss; lemon Kronleuchter; red Edelknabe. Two-color hybrids are popular - white-pink Abendglut, white-violet Castellian; Splendid series with different colors of petals and a white sail.

The Minaret, Russell Strine, and Lulu varieties have gained considerable popularity. The described cultivars are equal in height, reaching 50 cm. The color of the buds is different.

Lupine perennial planting

Since exotic is a perennial, from correct landing its development and decorativeness will depend. It is recommended to immediately choose a place for planting, since the bushes tolerate the replanting procedure very poorly.

When to plant

Sowing of perennials is carried out both in seedlings and directly in open ground. We will talk about growing seedlings a little later.

There are two ways to sow wolf beans. This can be done in early spring, immediately after the snow cover melts. With this method, the seedlings will bloom only after a year. Experienced gardeners prefer to sow before winter. The work is carried out at the end of October so that the seed does not have time to awaken and begin to grow. The process of natural stratification will take place over the winter, and seedlings will appear in early spring. This method is good because the first flowering will occur by the end of summer.

Selecting a location

The perennial is undemanding when choosing a location. Wild species are accustomed to growing in difficult conditions, but prefer illuminated areas with shading at midday. In full shade the bush will grow powerful foliage, but in bright sun the buds may fade and quickly fall off.

Remember! Strong winds blowing through the garden can damage the stems, but this problem can be solved by installing a support.

Soil for lupine

If the crop has no special claims to the place where it grows, then the acidity of the soil is very important for its proper growth. Exot requires loams with a slightly alkaline or slightly acidic reaction. If you deviate from the wishes of the green ward, you will have to improve the soil in an appropriate way.

In soil that is too acidic, it is necessary to add lime or dolomite flour in advance (in the fall). Apply 5 kg of lime for each square meter of area. During the life period, liming is carried out twice - every 3-4 years. It is better to carry out liming before preparing for winter or in early spring after the snow melts. It is permissible to pour dolomite onto the snow.

If the soil has a pronounced alkaline reaction, the bush will develop chlorosis, which is expressed by yellowing of the foliage. This type of soil is fertilized with acidic peat in the same quantity.

The fertility of the soil does not matter for the crop, because the nodules with nitrogen-fixing bacteria will supply the bush with the necessary nitrogen nutrition.

Landing technology

Let's take a closer look at the process of planting a flower:

• in the fall, after adding the components necessary to normalize the acidity, the area is dug up;
• In spring, the soil is freed from weeds and loosened;
• the seeds are planted to a depth of 2-3 cm, watered abundantly and mulched with a thin layer of peat. Step 20-30 cm;
• The seedlings are planted in shallow holes at intervals of 30-50 cm and watered abundantly.

Important! Pre-winter sowing is carried out strictly after stable sub-zero temperatures have been established at night.

Lupine long-term care

The North American guest will require a minimum of care - periodic loosening, weeding, a little fertilizer and pruning.

Watering

Exotic is a drought-resistant species, so watering should be moderate. To stimulate tillering and development of flower stalks, irrigation is carried out more often in the spring. After watering, be sure to loosen the soil, otherwise stagnant moisture will lead to rotting of the roots. It is convenient to combine loosening with weeding. At first, removing weeds is a mandatory measure, but overgrown individuals will leave no chance for other vegetation.

Top dressing

Exot is capable of producing nitrogen on its own, so it does not require the addition of this microelement. To maintain the health of the bush, every year with the arrival of spring, the soil is fertilized with a small amount of superphosphate. It is enough to scatter a tablespoon of granules around the bushes and water them generously. Potassium chloride added in the amount of a teaspoon (5 g) stimulates the development of flower stalks.

Lupine care after flowering

Multi-colored lupine candles are a real garden decoration. Every gardener dreams that their favorite bushes will delight with bright colors longer. To prolong the decorative effect, it is recommended to remove wilted brushes before beans set on them. They not only spoil appearance, but also take away the plant’s strength to form seeds. If the flower stalks are removed in a timely manner, then the bushes are likely to bloom again.

Adult specimens gradually lose their decorative properties - the middle dies off, and the side basal shoots they begin to crawl away. To prevent this from happening, hill up the plant periodically. The earth will cover root collar, and the bush will become much denser due to the growth of side roots.

Advice! The perennial does not require strong support; it is enough to tie the shoots loosely or throw a few wire loops. In general, strong branches are not at risk of fractures.

How to prepare perennial lupine for winter

The second wave of lupine flowering will end by the beginning of October. After the flower stalks wither, completely remove the above-ground part. Hill up the root lobe high and cover it with a layer of sawdust. In winter, monitor the amount of snow that falls. If necessary, carry out snow hilling by raking the snow into a high snowdrift.

When and how to collect seeds

If desired, you can collect seeds from the bushes for further reproduction. It is important not to miss the moment, since a ripe bean will scatter the seeds. The collection is carried out in the fall in several stages. Select beans that have barely turned yellow, cut them and dry them on a sheet of newspaper. Collected material store in a paper envelope, labeling the variety and collection date.

Methods for propagating perennial lupine

Perennials tend to cross-pollinate and lose varietal characteristics. Often the offspring returns to their original form. This means that from the seeds collected from a red flower a blue or pink descendant will grow.

Vegetative propagation allows you to completely preserve the parental characteristics, therefore experienced gardeners often resort to this method. During the growing season, the bushes actively produce lateral rosettes. In summer, they are separated with a sharp knife from the root collar along with the growth bud.

The best period for cutting cuttings comes after the first wave of flowering. The cuttings are planted in a shaded place, and after rooting, which lasts about a month, the cuttings can be planted on permanent place. The advantage of this method is that new specimens bloom in the current season.

Attention! Due to the taproot type of root system, dividing the bush is impossible.

Growing perennial lupine from seeds

Growing a flower using the seedling method is simple, but it is better not to use your own seeds due to the loss of varietal qualities.

Where to buy and how to choose planting material

Planting material is represented by seeds and seedlings. Seeds are easy to purchase at a garden center, where a wide range of them is available. When choosing material, give preference well-known manufacturer. He will take care of the quality of the seed in advance by thoroughly treating it with fungicides. In addition, large agricultural companies rarely have mis-grading, and you can be sure that you are purchasing exactly the variety indicated on the package. The price for 10 seeds ranges from 15 to 60 rubles.

Exotic seeds have an average percentage of germination, so you should pay attention to the date of collection; the longer the period left before the expiration date, the higher the germination rate will be.

Important! Most hybrids have sterile flowers, so collecting seeds from them is not practical.

Nowadays you can find home-grown seedlings on sale. Is it worth purchasing such planting material? If it is offered in the departments of large garden centers, then you can buy seedlings. Their price is 30-50 rubles. Seedlings grown at home have the same price category, but you should not buy the product “from hand”. It is unknown in what conditions it was grown and what kind of variety is hidden in the small pot.

Sowing seeds

Sowing begins in early spring - in March. It is advisable to use containers that exclude picking. Milk cartons or individual cups with a volume of at least 500 ml are suitable. For sowing, use loose fertile substrate. Can be successfully used ready soil peat-based or make your own soil mixture. Mix turf soil, peat and sand in a ratio of 2:2:1.

Don't forget to steam the substrate to destroy pest larvae and fungal spores. For rapid development of seedlings to seed material add chopped nodules left over from old plants. Before sowing, the seeds are soaked in a damp cloth until sprouts appear. The material is sown into a container filled with substrate to a depth of 2 cm. Subject to a moderate watering regime and a temperature background of 18-20⁰C, seedlings will appear in 2-3 weeks.

Seedling care

Preliminary hardening is not required, since the seedlings can easily tolerate light frosts. You should not delay replanting, as the root system is quickly formed. Overgrown seedlings take root worse in a new location. Seedlings are planted in open ground at a distance of 30 to 50 cm, depending on the variety.

On a note! A planting diagram is included on each seed package.

Pests and diseases of lupine

If agricultural practices are followed, the North American guest practically does not get sick. For the crop, it is important to observe crop rotation and not plant new individuals in the same place for at least 3 years. The danger for exotics is:

• germ flies;
• nodule weevil;
• various types of rot;
• rust;
• Phomopsis (spotting);
• mosaic;
• Fusarium

The appearance of a colony of aphids on buds causes trouble for the gardener. To destroy the pest, do not rush to use chemicals. It is enough to spray the candles with the solution laundry soap or garlic infusion and the tiny beetles will die.

The larvae of germ flies feed on seeds planted in the ground, climbing inside and damaging the embryo. After sowing, the soil is watered with a solution of the Iskra preparation.

The nodule weevil is a very voracious beetle. He is able to eat up to 2 kg of foliage per day! If you notice signs of damage to the records, apply a systemic insecticide.

Rot, rust, Phomopsis, Fusarium are diseases caused by fungi. As the mycelium grows, various spots and signs of deterioration appear. Remove the affected parts and spray with fungicide.

Remember! Mosaic, which appears in the form of characteristic spots, refers to plant viruses. There is no cure for this scourge, so remove infected individuals immediately.

Lupine as green manure and fertilizer

Green manures are natural green fertilizers. Thanks to the structure of the root system and symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, representatives of the legume family saturate the soil with nitrogen, replacing organic matter. Another advantage is the developed network of small roots, which improves the structure of the soil. Tiny roots dig into the soil, improving aeration.

To turn a flower into fertilizer, it must be planted in the required area, and after flowering, when the beans turn silver, it must be embedded in the soil using a special tool - a flat cutter. It resembles a hoe with a long handle, which I use to cut greenery without disturbing the soil structure.

This is interesting! The roots accumulate up to 20 g of easily digestible nitrogen per square meter. In addition to nitrogen, the earth is saturated with potassium and phosphorus.

Perennial lupine flower in landscape design - what to plant with

Landscape designers widely use lupine as a soloist and to create luxurious groups. Bright candles can boast different shades, which is undoubtedly a big plus. It is recommended to plant the crop in the background, since fading flower stalks reduce the decorative effect. To the foreground of a mixborder, a prefabricated flower bed, alpine slide Irises and tiger lilies are usually planted.

Bright cylinders go well with delphinium, tall poppy and delicate nevus. The frame of hosta and fern looks very impressive.

Conclusion

Planting and caring for perennial lupine is a very pleasant and easy task, and bright summer photos against the backdrop of tall candles will remind you of a warm summer.

Lupines are one of the most common ornamental plants, which even people who do not have much knowledge of plant growing are familiar with. They are known to many as unpretentious plants that are grown in different regions our country. Many gardeners grow them precisely because they are easy to care for, rapid growth and a rich range of colors.

But for some people, lupins are nothing more than a common weed. It is difficult to love flowers that can fill quite large areas.

Features of the plant

Lupins are one of the famous representatives of the legume family. At first, people became acquainted with wild species that closely resembled peas. But the situation changed with the development of hybrids who received wide use V decorative purposes when designing plots. And today these flowers are grown in many countries.

The variety of shades is one of the main reasons why lupins can increasingly be found on our gardeners’ plots. The design of flowers can include white, pink, lilac, yellow and red shades. However, what makes them more spectacular is the ability to grow in three colors, but only some types of lupine have this property. It is enough to plant such varieties once, and in a few years a wide carpet will be created on the site, effectively decorating the soil with a variety of bright flowers.

Lupine flowers begin to open in the first weeks of summer. They form a wonderful composition in combination with peonies.

Lupines are of interest not only because of their attractiveness and ease of cultivation. The presence of this plant helps increase soil fertility. The plants achieve this effect due to the presence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria on the tubers. The greatest benefit in this regard comes from growing blue lupine.

Main types and varieties

The lupine genus includes about a thousand species. Moreover, people first became acquainted with annual varieties 2000 years ago BC.

Largest representation in different parts our planet has approximately 200 main types. In relation to our country, it can be noted that the following four types are most represented here:

• yellow;
• white;
• narrow-leaved;
• multifoliate.

Depending on the period of growth, these plants can be divided into three main groups:

• annuals;
• two-year-olds;
• perennial

Moreover, lupins can also differ in size, on the basis of which they are usually divided into dwarf giant varieties. Also Depending on the growth form, herbaceous species and shrubs are found.

Each of the listed types has its own characteristics, which will also be useful to learn more about:

This is only a small part of the wide variety of varieties that are found on our planet. The species described above are represented on the territory of our country in the greatest number. On other continents, other varieties of lupine are more common. For example, in America, dwarf, hybrid, changeable and decorated are popular.

Considering the harsh conditions of our country, it is recommended to choose special varieties of lupine for cultivation that are resistant to severe frosts and drought.

How to choose a planting site and prepare the soil?

Although lupins can grow in any type of soil, not every type of soil will be suitable for them. This applies to acidic soils, where with a larger share Chances are they will start to turn yellow. It is impossible to create favorable conditions for the development of lupine on soils where there is an excess of alkali.

It is beneficial to grow lupins in nutrient-poor soils, which increase in fertility over time. In order to improve soil quality before planting lupins can be used as an additive in planting soil peat and lime.

Being a light-loving plant, lupins can feel most comfortable in an area with partial shade.

Usually, special measures are not required to prepare the soil for planting. If the soil contains sufficient nutrients, then you can without preliminary preparations sow seeds in spring in open ground.

When to plant lupins?

Planting and care open ground flowers must be timely. Usually sowing is carried out in the spring: for this the moment is selected when the weather is warm enough outside, which usually happens already in April. Some gardeners practice sowing lupine before winter. In this case, seeds are placed in the prepared hole and sprinkled with a layer of peat on top.

Growing from seeds and seedlings

The process of growing perennial and annual species of lupine is a simple undertaking that can be carried out by any beginning gardener. The main methods include sowing seeds or seedlings, which can be done in April.

But first of all, you need to decide on a suitable place on the site. Next, the seeds prepared for sowing are buried to a depth of 2–3 cm. Finally, the soil needs to be watered well.. In the first year, lupine flowers begin to bloom in early August.

Flower care

In relation to lupins, the same basic measures are taken as in the case of all other cultivated plants:

• watering. Irrigation should be carried out in moderation. Typically, to meet the water needs of plants, they are watered 1-2 times a week. With little rainfall, the frequency is increased to 3–4 times;
• loosening. Each regular watering must be completed with loosening. Let us remind you once again that these flowers feel best on soils rich in oxygen;
• weeding. It is necessary to constantly monitor the cleanliness of the area where lupins are grown and promptly remove weeds. The presence of other plants that form shade will not benefit lupins. In this case, the flowers will begin to stretch and will not be able to demonstrate the decorative properties expected of them;
• garter and trimming. If strong winds often occur in the place where lupins are grown, they will need a garter. If this is not done, then under the influence of the wind their stem may break, causing them to lose their attractive appearance. At the age of 5 years, pruning is carried out. At this stage of the life cycle, they stop flowering completely or begin to become smaller. It is important to prune after flowering has ended to stimulate the re-formation of inflorescences;
• application of fertilizers. Like other cultivated plants, lupins bloom well if they are planted in fertile soil. When growing flowers on poor soils, the situation can be corrected by applying any mineral or organic fertilizers. Feeding can be done 2-3 times per season;
• pest control. Lupins, like other plants, can be affected harmful insects. The most common pest that harms flowers is aphids. They fight it with the help of insecticides designed to destroy this type of pest. You can repel aphids, as well as a number of other insects, with the help of strongly odorous substances. A good preventative measure is to spray flowers with an infusion of wormwood, pepper and cinnamon.

Preparing for winter

In the fall, the gardener needs to choose one of the ways to winter lupins:

• digging up tubers for the winter;
• wintering in the ground.

Considering that lupins are a cold-resistant crop, they can be left in the ground for the winter. However, first it is necessary to trim the aboveground part so that after the operation the height of the stem is no more than 1–2 cm from the soil.

How to propagate a plant?

To obtain new plants, you can use the method of sowing seeds or propagating by petioles.

If the first method was chosen, then seeds will be required, which can be collected after flowering has ended. You can sow seeds in a permanent place in the fall.

To propagate lupins by petioles, you will have to cut it out with part of the stem, and then transplant it to a prepared area.

What do plants like and fear?

High vitality is one of the characteristic features lupins. That's why individuals treat them like nasty weeds, since you have to spend a lot of time and effort to remove them from the site. However, in unfavorable years lupins can be affected by diseases.

Most often they suffer from powdery mildew, which appears when creating favorable conditions: presence of shade, lack of nutrients in the soil, abundant planting around, strong temperature fluctuations.

Success in the fight against this disease largely depends on the time when the first treatment measures began. Very effective Spray infected plants with drugs designed to combat such diseases.

Finally, the soil must be loosened and the soil fertilized. Care should be taken to there were no other plants on the site that could create shade for lupins. If this is not possible, you should find a more suitable place for flowers.

Conclusion

Lupines do not need a special introduction, because many are familiar with it as a malicious weed that is very difficult to remove from the site. However, in reality this ornamental plant, which can decorate any area with its presence. But you need to choose the right place for lupins, because they feel best in light shading conditions.

Allows you to achieve lush flowering perennial lupines planting and care carried out in accordance with the rules. Thus, on certain types of soil it may be necessary to add special fertilizers to normalize acidity levels and increase fertility.

Wolfgrass is one of thousands of members of the legume or borer family. Despite the fact that it has been known for almost 4000 years, progress in cultivation is still very weak. IN agriculture Only 1 perennial species and 3 annuals are used. There are about 10 species out of more than 200 known as decorative ones.

Types of lupine

There are several systems that divide cultivated lupine into species.

First option. Growth division into subshrubs, subshrubs and shrubs.

Second option. Sorting plants into two subgenera and their place of distribution:

• American group, divided into North and South American;
• Mediterranean, including African species.

Third option. The most common is annual or perennial lupins.

Lupins Red Rum

Annual species

White lupine (lupinus albus), yellow lupine (lupinus luteus) and narrow-leaved or blue lupine (lupinus angustifolius) - these are the plants that are used in our country as a forage crop and green manure. They are unpretentious, frost-resistant and can reach a height of up to two meters.

Ornamental annuals include: hybrid lupine (lupinus hybridus), changeable lupine (lupinus mutabilis), dwarf lupine (lupinus nanus) and Hartweg lupine (lupinus hartwegii). In general, they are more demanding on growing conditions, as they do not tolerate cold weather. Have a large number of garden forms, varieties and hybrids.

Perennial species

Multileaf lupine (lupinus polyphyllus) and tree lupine (lupinus arboreu) are the most common varieties in Russia. They have fully adapted to climatic conditions, although the latter is still recommended for the southern regions. Thanks to D. Russell, a huge number of new varieties with bright, juicy flowers have been developed.

Of course, the plant is represented not only by the species listed above, but others, such as silver lupine (lupinus argenteus) or Nootka lupine (lupinus nootkatensis), are extremely rare in our country.

Seeds, how much they cost, what they look like

Lupine seeds vary in shape, color and size, although they are generally similar to the seeds of peas, beans and other legumes. It is an inexpensive plant because most people continue to consider it a weed. The cost of pure-grade seeds starts from 10 rubles and directly depends on the number of beans in a pack. There are sites where you can buy lupine cheaper, but to do this you need to order a batch of 50 pieces or more.

How to grow from seeds

Most often, seeds are used only in cases where it is interesting to do breeding work or one does not want to waste time on planting. Consequently, in the first case, seed material is carefully collected and selected. But in the second, lupine quickly becomes a weed, which they try to get rid of without appreciating its beauty.

More in a clean way preserving the varieties already available on the site is cuttings. But in the absence of a queen cell, seed material has to be used. It is best to choose perennial species for this. Annual varieties are more demanding on conditions, and due to the not very good germination of lupine, this can become a problem.

Harvest the fruits as soon as they turn yellow and begin to dry out a little. You should not allow them to ripen in the garden, since, having scattered across the flower beds, the lupine will quickly turn back into a weed, losing all the purity of its shades.

For your information. This is why hybrid varieties are not used when growing from seeds - already in the second year the plant returns to its original form (purple shades begin to predominate and white shades disappear).

To obtain seedlings, which is important for northern regions, sowing of seeds is carried out at the very beginning of spring (mid-March - early April). This allows you to achieve earlier and more friendly flowering of lupine in the flowerbed.

Prepare deep boxes with a drainage system. Fill in the prepared soil. Plant the seeds. And expect shoots.

The depth of the drawers is not of fundamental importance; smaller molds can be used. A good option would be to use disposable cups (you just need to provide drainage). It should be noted that the root of the plant is quite powerful and goes deep. Accordingly, if planted untimely, it may become deformed, which will directly affect the quality of the plant being grown.

The soil mixture is made from sand, turf soil and peat. Recommended proportions are 1:2:2. Some gardeners recommend reducing the proportion of sand. In fact, the proportion is very arbitrary and largely depends on the quality of the turf land used. Looseness and friability remain a prerequisite ready mixture. As a top dressing, you can add chopped old plant (lupine).

Seeds should be planted individually, at a distance 30-50 cm apart. Ideally, each bean is in its own box. You can pre-treat them with foundationazole 50% pp. Be sure to check the date on the packaging; although lupine retains good germination for 5 years, you shouldn’t take the risk.

After planting, it is recommended to water the containers and cover them with film to ensure optimal conditions. Approximately in 2-3 weeks, which depends on the room temperature and the plant variety, the first shoots appear. Planting in open ground should be done after the end of frost, approximately the end of April - beginning of May. Try to time it so that the plant has at least 2-4 true leaves. Still weak seedlings must be protected from strong winds. Within a few days, the lupine will quickly get used to the new territory and you don’t have to worry so much.

It is important to remember that when growing pure varieties (for collecting seeds), the plants should be separated from each other, not allowing them to cross-pollinate.

Planting in spring

In the southern regions, it is practiced to plant seeds directly in open ground.

Despite its unpretentiousness, there are still a number of requirements that must be met:

• decide in advance on the landing site. Preference should be given to an area with diffused light - lupine can tolerate direct rays of the sun, but in partial shade the shades of flowers become much brighter. It is recommended to protect the plant from the wind, or to tie them up;
• prepare the soil in the fall. You definitely need to dig up the soil and add mineral fertilizers(a couple of tablespoons of ash is usually enough for one bush) and create a drainage system - in this case, flowering will occur earlier;
• maintain the acid-base balance of the soil. With alkaline, more peat is added. If acidic – lime or dolomite flour, at the rate of 5 kg per 1 sq. m.

Planting before winter

This is one of the most simple options, which is very popular among both beginners and more experienced flower growers. A clear advantage is that subsequent planting of seedlings is not required. And it’s better to use space in the house for more heat-loving plants.

Seeds should be planted towards the end of October. In this case, the lupine will not have time to germinate. The planting depth is no more than 2-2.3 cm. The top must be mulched with peat at the rate of 5 kg per square meter. As when growing at home, it is recommended to maintain the optimal distance between seeds - at least 30 cm.

Some sources recommend planting two beans per hole, but this is not a requirement. Since lupine is unpretentious, in the case of some seeds that have not sprouted, it will be easier to replant.

How to care

Caring for lupine does not require any specialized knowledge - this is a good plant for beginners and those who cannot regularly look after flowers:

• Carefully loosen the soil regularly and make sure that the root system is not exposed. This is especially true for two-year-old plants, which begin active growth lateral roots;
• in the first year, remove weeds, in the future the lupine itself will perfectly drown them out;
• high humidity is required only during the period of bud formation, otherwise the volume and regularity of watering is individual and directly depends on climatic conditions, planting period and lupine variety;
• It is imperative to cover the plant for the winter.

To increase flowering time, wilting shoots should be removed in time, which will also help prevent lupine from self-seeding.

Despite the rather long lifespan of (perennial) lupins, it is recommended that they be completely removed after 4 years.

Review of the best varieties of perennial lupins

Despite the fact that not many types of lupine have been cultivated, the choice of varieties and hybrids, and therefore shapes and colors, is quite large.

The opinions of flower growers and farmers are similar - the most popular annual species are white and yellow lupins . They are good sederats, easy to care for, and not so susceptible to disease.

For example, Degas, which is a variety of white lupine, is highly valued for its good yield and resistance to fusarium. He is not afraid of overstaying and calmly tolerates excess moisture. And thanks to its small height, about 90 cm, it is resistant to lodging.

In fact, many gardeners prefer low-growing lupins. Varieties with a height of no more than 50 cm are very popular. For example, Minaret, which has a huge selection of color forms. Or Pink Fairy which has a very pleasant aroma.

If you are interested in growing this beautiful plant, we advise you to turn to other varieties that are rare in our country. For example, small (up to 40 cm) Arctic lupine, the flowers of which have various shades of blue. Or Changeable Lupine, with a long flowering period (about two months) and changeable color (lilac petals gradually change to dark red).

Lupine in joint plantings and its use in landscape design

Due to the fact that the plant gets along well with others, you can come up with a large number of color options. If lupine is planted in a row, then in the foreground they will look good.

By planting a couple of perennials nearby, for example or bellflower, you can achieve interesting transitions of blue tint. And when using cosmos and Schloss Frau lupine, all the neighbors will pay attention to the soft pink cloud.

Pink Lupine

The first varieties of garden lupins were bred by British gardeners; it is not surprising that lupine looks great in gardens in english style. Its slightly casual appearance, giving the impression of a natural meadow, goes well with the rough brickwork and the heavy shades of a typical English landscape.

English style garden

Lupines in front of an English style house

Very often used to decorate backyards.

Pink lupins in the garden

Can also be good for creating a garden in an abandoned romantic style.

Lupine in the garden in a romantic style

At the same time, its candle-like inflorescences can look solemn and noble, and are appropriate next to well-groomed paths, lawns, flower beds, hedges, and stone borders. In this case, sparse plantings in one or two shades (white, yellow, wine, red lupine) are good, where the beauty of each individual flower is clearly visible.

White, pink and lilac lupins as an accent next to a stone path

Red lupine goes well with trimmed hedges and arches

White lupins in a mixborder, where the main accent, setting the mood and softening the aggressive beauty of lupins, is delicate pale pink poppies.

Very convenient for creating borders.

Dark red lupine in the border

Border in lilac tones with lupins, roses, clematis and hardy geraniums at Sissinghurst Castle Garden, near Cranbrook, Kent.

A border of lupines enlivens a monotonous hedge line.

Powerful lupins successfully replace a border of bushes.

Red lupins create a series of vertical, bright lines that beautifully break up a solid wall of greenery or buildings. Very convenient for enlivening the landscape near the walls of fences and houses.

Red lupins as the only source bright colors along old wall. Without them, the landscape would be dull.

The rich red color blends harmoniously with the mature green leaves and grass.

Red lupins look great in coniferous compositions.

Another option for using red lupins.

They can look good in single plantings. A lush bush of dense foliage, topped with candelabra, will successfully replace any other shrub.

Lupine burgundy color in single plantings

A mix of lupines planted as the only bright spot against a background of greenery

They are successfully used in mixborders and here the imagination is not limited. The only rule is that lupins require space. They are bright, noticeable, and must be balanced with other powerful plants.

A complex composition, a little fragmented, but lupins add dynamics.

Thanks to the colorfulness of lupins, you can create bright and sometimes unusual color accents.

White-yellow lupine sets off the dark deep green of the pine needles.

White and light yellow lupins are slightly diluted contrasting combination bright yellow and bright blue flowers.

Spring color combination: lilac-pink-lilac lupins.

Autumn landscape: rich yellow, burgundy, red, orange shades of lupins.

Vertical lines of multi-colored lupins unite flashes of bright poppy heads.

Lupine and wisteria combine amazingly; it’s just a pity that wisteria does not grow in central Russia (although there is information that winter-hardy varieties of wisteria have begun to be developed). The photo below shows the famous Kawachi Fuji Garden in Japan.

Wisteria and lupins at Kawachi Fuji Gardens, Japan

Diseases, pests, seed collection

About some aspects of caring for lupine - in the video from the Florist-X blog

Perennial lupine is very beautiful and large.

Let's figure out what it is -

Botanical description

Lupine is perennial legume family. The roots of the flower have a rod structure. They can go to a depth of up to two meters. Lupine roots contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria that absorb nitrogen from the atmosphere. Lupine stems have a herbaceous structure. The stem has leaves. The branches grow upward. The leaves are elongated, reminiscent of palm trees. The inflorescence is a multi-flowered raceme. The perennial lupine flower can have different colors, but most often it is blue, the flowers are arranged alternately. The bract is solitary and usually falls off early.

Did you know? The second name for lupine is “Wolf Beans”

Popular representatives

There are many varieties of perennial lupine. Let's look at some of them.

One of the popular varieties is the height of this plant is half a meter. The flower size is no more than 35 cm in length. The color of the flower is red. Blooms in early summer. If you cut off the inflorescence, “My Castel” will bloom again in August.

"Faust" reaches a height of 0.8 m. The flower can have different colors. It blooms for up to four weeks, re-blooming is possible (if you cut the inflorescence before the seeds ripen).

The leaves of this plant are located in basal rosettes. The leaves are matte, dark green. The inflorescence is slightly more than 30 cm long, the color of the flower is most often blue-white. Like 'My Castel', re-blooming is possible at the end of summer.

"Abendglut" reaches a meter in height. The flower winters well in our latitudes. The length of the inflorescence reaches 40 cm, the color of the flower is dark red.

A variety whose plant height is 50 cm. The inflorescence can be of different colors: purple, caramel, violet, and so on. Blooms in early summer.
"Neue Spielarten"- a tall beautiful plant that can reach more than a meter in height. The flower clusters are large, up to 0.4 m. The flowers are orange-pink. It blooms for the month of June.

"Prinzess Juliana"- very similar to “Neue Spielarten”, but the flowers are very beautiful, pink and white.

Where do lupins grow?

Planting and caring for a plant are important for any gardener. Let's figure out what soil and lighting are needed for perennial lupine.

Location and lighting

The plant is best planted on in sunny or slightly shaded areas. Better flower grows in partial shade therefore, it is good if it grows nearby or in their shade, the plant will quickly grow and will delight you for a long time.

Soil for perennial lupins

The flower grows on virtually any soil, but loves loose, well-drained soil. This is very unpretentious flower. The plant can also grow on poor soils as a green manure crop. Lupines love neutral, slightly alkaline and slightly acidic soils. If you planted flowers on alkaline soil, you need to add 5 kg of soil per 1 m2 of soil, otherwise the plant will turn yellow. If planted on acidic soil, it is necessary to lime the soil with lime flour with the calculation: take 5 kg of flour per 1 m2 of land. Liming must be done once every four years.

Did you know? Americans eat pickled lupine.

Planting and propagation

Yellow lupins get sick less than other lupines.

Fusarium wilt

This disease affects the flower throughout its life. Lupine leaves may dry out and curl. The upper part of the flower becomes drooping. If the plant is cut in half, you can see darkening of the vascular system. The root system turns brown and dies. During flowering, the fungus forms macroconidia and microconidia: thanks to them, the mycelium increases its boundaries. Macroconidia have sizes from 25x3 µm to 50x3.5 µm. Microconidia are unicellular with several septa. If heavy rains begin after a drought, the mycelium begins to increase in size faster.

Mushrooms can be stored in the ground for up to 6 years.

Phosphorus-potassium fertilizers help lupine cope with the disease. But the infected plant does not produce fruit.

Brown spot

The disease affects both leaves and beans, as well as seeds and stems. At the bottom of the stem are formed brown spots. Their size is up to two millimeters. Dirty brown spots with a light green border appear on the leaf.

On older flowers it appears in the form of red spots that have irregular shape. The width of the spot is about one centimeter. Sometimes the spots merge. In this case, the leaves become a solid red-brown color. Then they turn black and fly away.

The spots on the seeds are up to two centimeters wide. A black coating forms on them.

The causative agent is the fungus Ceratophorum setosum Kirch. This fungus can remain on vegetation debris. Transmitted by seeds.

Lupine can get sick in humid, warm weather. Loss of lupine yield due to brown spot can be up to 30%, and sometimes more.

Gray rot

The disease appears from below on the stem. It then “occupies” the flowers and fruits of the flower. The tissues of the infected flower soften, and gray plaque. At high humidity the diseased plant is covered with rot.

During the dry period, the disease manifests itself in the form of ulcers.

The mushroom that causes it is called Botritis cinerea Fr. The fungus spends the winter in the remains of vegetation on the soil surface. It can also overwinter in the ground at a depth of up to 5 centimeters, as well as on seeds.

Important! Yellow lupine is most affected by gray rot.

If the flowers are not treated, up to 30% of the crop will die.

Drying of stems

The disease begins with oval dark spots on the stems. Then the spots begin to increase in size. This is especially noticeable in high humidity. The entire stem is covered with spots with black dots. Then it dries out.

Lupine is a herbaceous perennial, beautiful large flower from the legume family. Popular name- wolf beans, because, unlike relatives such as beans or peas, the fruits of many types of lupine are poisonous. The plant is interesting not only for its decorative qualities - it has value as a green manure and a fodder crop. Planting lupine is not difficult, caring for it is simple, and growing it in open ground does not take much time.

Types and varieties

Of the more than 200 known species, no more than a dozen are cultivated in Russia, characterized by extensive color scheme flowers.

1. L. arborescens is a native of North America. The shoots are branched, straight, up to 2 m high. The flowers are white, yellow, red.
2. L. white comes from Mediterranean countries. The species is annual, self-pollinating. Straight pubescent stems about 2 m tall, white flowers. The plant is resistant to drought and heat. Grown as an annual.
3. L. yellow is a heat-loving annual. The flowers have a strong, pleasant aroma.
4. L. dwarf forms compact, dense bushes and takes root easily and quickly. The color of the flowers is deep blue with yellow spots. In cold climates it is grown as an annual.
5. L. multifolia is a native of North America. Reaches a height of one and a half meters, the flowers are colored in shades of blue, purple, white, and can be two-colored. Frost-resistant species, suitable for growing in regions with harsh winters.
6. L. angustifolia (blue) grows up to 1.5 m. Large, fragrant flowers are colored in lilac, pink or white shades. An annual plant, it is considered one of the best green manures.
7. L. Russell (Roussel)- a line of varieties and hybrids, bred on the basis of the developments of the English breeder George Russell. They are distinguished by their high decorativeness, combined with the natural qualities of the family.
8. L. Hartwega is a compact annual, height up to 60 cm, cylindrical inflorescence shape.

Popular varieties of lupines:

• My Castel – blooms in early summer, height about half a meter, flower raceme length 35 cm, red flowers;
• Faust with flowers of various colors, height up to 80 cm, blooms in early summer;
• The Governor, white and blue flowers, flower raceme length about 30 cm;
• Abengludt, meter high, inflorescence length 40 cm, flowers of deep red color, frost-resistant;
• Minarette is about half a meter high, has a variety of colors, and begins to bloom in June;
• Neue Spielarten grows up to 1.5 m, the length of orange-pink racemes is about 40 cm;
• Prinzess Juliana is similar to the previous variety, but the flowers are pink and white.

Perennial varieties that bloom in mid-summer are able to bloom again. To do this, faded brushes are cut off immediately.

Growing lupins in open ground

The cultivation technology is simple; all that is required is compliance with the rules of agricultural technology available to any gardener.

The flower grows well and blooms in open sunny or semi-shaded flower beds.

Areas where legumes or cereals previously grew are not suitable for planting lupins. Do not plant flowers next to cruciferous plants - they have the same diseases and pests.

Perennial lupins grow without any complaints on any soil, but loose, well-drained loam, neutral, slightly alkaline or slightly acidic, will be optimal for them. If the soil acidity level in the selected area does not meet the required level, corrective additives are added in the fall (5 kg/sq. m):

• for alkalization - peat;
• for deoxidation - dolomite or lime flour.

When to plant?

Growing from seeds involves the seedling method and direct sowing of seeds in open ground. The first option is recommended for use in regions with short summers, the second is suitable for southern regions.

In accordance with the chosen planting option, the timing of sowing seeds is determined:

• seedlings are sown in late February - early March;
• in open ground - in April, depending on weather conditions.

Growing seedlings

The process requires strict adherence to the rules below.

1. The substrate for seeds is made up of sand, peat and turf soil in equal proportions.
   

   Adding crushed dry lupine nodules to the soil mixture speeds up the emergence of seedlings.

2. The seeds are pre-soaked with “Fundazol” (50%) - the procedure accelerates germination and at the same time protects against fungal diseases.
3. The seedling container should be deep, with drainage holes. It is advisable to sow the seeds in separate cups so that the root system is not damaged during transplantation.
4. The soil mixture is poured into seedling containers, moistened and furrows 1.5-2 cm deep are made. The seeds are laid out and sprinkled with substrate, the container is covered with polyethylene or glass.
5. Crops are kept in a warm place. If this is not possible, it is recommended to mulch them with a layer of peat.
6. Water as the top layer of the substrate dries. After the second watering, regular loosening of the soil begins. Loosen carefully so as not to disturb the seeds.
7. Crops are ventilated daily.

Shoots appear in 2-3 weeks; seedlings are planted in flower beds after 20-25 days, when 2-3 strong true leaves have formed. It is not advisable to overexpose seedlings: the root system develops very quickly, and overgrown seedlings are much more difficult to plant.

Direct sowing of seeds

The land for direct sowing is prepared in the fall - it is dug up, deoxidizing or alkalizing additives, superphosphate and ash are added.

In the spring, holes or grooves up to 2 cm deep are dug for seeds, seeds soaked with Fundazol are scattered and sprinkled with soil.

The optimal sowing time is April, the first half of the month for the south, the second half for temperate climates.

Practiced and winter sowing, it is held in the second half of October. The crops are mulched with a 2-centimeter layer of peat. Flowering will occur in the first year, approximately expected in August.

Seeds are also sown in summer, following the described technology.

How to plant lupine seedlings?

The grown strong seedlings are planted when the final warmth is established. Holes are dug according to size earthen coma. The picking is carried out carefully so as not to damage the roots.

Seedlings are placed at intervals of 35 cm (for short and compact cultivars) to 50 cm (for tall and spreading ones).

Weak, poorly growing seedlings are not planted in flower beds: they have little chance, they are given a lot of space. They are either thrown away or found in a semi-shaded place under fruit trees.

Caring for lupine in open ground

Lupine is considered unpretentious plant. In order for it to develop successfully and bloom regularly, follow the general rules of care.

• Loosening the soil and removing weeds is especially important in the first year, when the root system is formed in young bushes.
• The frequency and abundance of watering depend on the type and composition of the soil. The general rule is that abundant watering is required for the first month or two after planting and during the formation of buds. Preferably rain water; tap water should be left for at least 24 hours.
• Monitor the root part of the plant. If it is exposed, add soil. From the second year, lupins are hilled to stimulate the growth of lateral roots. The flower will be strong, healthy, actively blooming.
• Tall bushes may require staking if they grow in a windy area.
• Faded flower stalks are promptly removed. A simple procedure has several goals - preventing self-seeding, preserving the decorative appearance of the bush, and stimulating re-flowering.
• Preparation for winter includes trimming flower stalks and old yellowed leaves, hilling, mulching with peat or sawdust.
• If the off-season is characterized sudden changes temperature, it is advisable to arrange an air-dry shelter; in extreme cases, plantings are covered with film covering material.

Bushes are renewed every 4-5 years, since with age lupine gradually loses its decorative qualities and its ability to form full-fledged flower stalks decreases.

When and what to feed?

In the first year after planting, the plant does not need to be fertilized. Starting from the second year, every spring add:

• superphosphate – 10-20 g/sq.m. m:
• potassium chloride – 5 g/sq.m. m.

Complex mineral fertilizers are not recommended because they contain nitrogen, which lupins do not need.

Diseases and pests

Typical diseases are fusarium, brown spot, powdery mildew, gray and brown rot - appear for the following reasons:

• temperature changes;
• lack of lighting;
• waterlogging.

Fungicides are used to counteract. Preventive measure - timely application mineral supplements– superphosphate and potassium salt.

Insect pests of lupine are aphids, sprout flies, and nodule weevils, which are especially annoying during the period of bud formation. To combat them, insecticides are used, for example Aktaru.

To prevent diseases and pest attacks, monitor the watering regime and clean regularly withered leaves. Damaged parts of plants are promptly pruned and destroyed.

Reproduction methods

The main methods of propagation used for lupine are generative (seeds) and vegetative (cuttings, dividing the bush).

Seed method

The seeds are collected in the fall, after flowering again they have time to ripen. In varieties that bloom once per season, one peduncle is left.

Mature seed pod(pod) is colored yellow.

You should not wait for the seeds to ripen on the vine - lupine easily reproduces by self-sowing, bean seeds can scatter over the area from a gust of wind and fall out from the rain.

Harvest the pods when they begin to turn yellow. Without opening them, they are placed in bags, leaving free access to air. Ripe seeds will fall out of the pods on their own. After this, the valves are removed and the seeds are stored in a dry, dark place.

When collecting seeds, it should be taken into account that lupins are cross-pollinated and the likelihood of complete inheritance of parental qualities in new plants is low.

Cuttings

The good thing about this method is that the young plants completely replicate the mother plants.

At spring cuttings a basal rosette is taken at the base of the stem. It is cut off with a piece of the root collar. In summer, lateral shoots that form in the axils of the leaves are used for cuttings. The procedure is carried out upon completion of flowering.

The cuttings are planted in a soil mixture with a high sand content in a shaded area. The first roots grow in 20-25 days - after this the cuttings are ready for planting in a permanent place.

Lupines grown from cuttings bloom in the current season.

Dividing the bush

The method is only suitable for shrub forms. Side shoots separated from a 4–5 year old bush.

Using lupins as green manure

Features of lupine that allow it to be used as green manure:

• the root system, going to a depth of 2 m, absorbs monohydrogen phosphates and lifts them into the upper layers of the soil, without depleting the turf layer;
• a developed root system maintains soil looseness and saturates it with oxygen;
• alkaloids contained in lupins contribute to soil deoxidation and repel many pests;
• like all legumes, lupine saturates the soil with nitrogen, taking it directly from the atmosphere.

Planted to improve soil health annual lupins– white, yellow, narrow-leaved (blue). These same species help remove wireworm settlements.

Lupine varieties suitable for soil improvement:

• Degas, Gamma – white lupine;
• Crystal, Smena, Siderat 38 – blue lupine;
• Fakel, Peresvet, Grodno 3 – yellow.

Sowing of green manure is carried out in early spring or autumn, after harvesting. The beds are first cleared of weeds and residues cultivated plants. The following distances between plants are maintained:

• row spacing – 15-30 cm;
• in a row – 5-15 cm;
• The depth of the grooves is 2-3 cm.

Mow the plantings and incorporate plant residues into the soil after 8 weeks.

Multi-colored lupins are easy to plant; they do not require special care. With minimal gardener intervention, flowers decorate for a long time garden plot candles-inflorescences, pleasing the eye and attracting bees.