Is Lupinus polyphyllus invasive?
The wild varieties can easily become invasive and hard to dispose of unless kept in check on a regular basis. Growing lupins in pots can help prevent them from growing invasively in the ground. Lupins are members of the legume family, which means they have a large central tap root which, if disturbed, may not grow as well once resituated. They can be grown in pots, but form much larger and healthier plants if planted directly in the soil.Cutting any spent flower stems back to a set of leaves will help keep the Lupine’s overall shape compact and encourage more flower stem production. Prune back the top growth hard in the fall after the foliage has turned brown in preparation for dormancy and winter.When to plant: If planting lupine from seed, direct sow in the garden in late fall or early winter for blooms the following spring. You can also sow seeds in the spring 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date, but your plants will bloom later in the summer.Lupines are deep-rooted and do not spread except through re-seeding. Seeds will not come true to the original variety planted, but will eventually revert to blue-violet and white.
How invasive are lupines?
This origin story is common among many invasive plant species. In parts of the Midwest and Northeast, western lupine is considered an invasive species, meaning its introduction has caused economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Once established, lupines are relatively drought-tolerant, making them a great choice for gardens that require low-water plants. Lupines also support a healthy ecosystem by attracting pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, as well as beneficial predatory insects like ladybugs and hoverflies.Potentially Invasive Some species of lupines can be invasive in natural areas, spreading rapidly through self-sowing seeds. Although it does not always cooperate in the ornamental garden, one significant problem with growing lupines is that they can spread dangerously fast in natural and untended areas.Lupines are hardy perennials that grow well in a wide variety of conditions. This low-maintenance plant goes dormant during the winter, with the top growth dying entirely to the ground.
Do lupines spread easily?
Individual lupines plants do not spread. As they get older the root gets bigger and sends up more flower stalks. Lupines, do, however, produce dozens of pealike seeds per plant, which are dispersed when the pods pop open in late July or early August. Lupine flowers need at least 6 hours of sunshine. Although they prefer full sun, they don’t like high heat. So, shade in the afternoon can be beneficial for lupine plants.Lupines should bloom the first year they are planted as seedlings or divided. Lupines planted from seed can take up to two years to bloom.Plant lupins out from October to April. They prefer full sun but also will grow in dappled shade but will produce slightly less Lupins will flower throughout June and July. Lupins prefer well-drained but moist soil, however they are tolerant of many conditions and will be quite happy in sandy soil.Since lupine requires full or partial sun, do not plant trees or shrubs near it that will shade it out as they mature. Avoid choosing plants that need wet soil, such as cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), since lupine will not tolerate the soil moisture levels needed to keep these plants alive.
What are the disadvantages of planting lupine?
Toxicity: All parts of the lupine plant are toxic if ingested, both for humans and pets. They contain alkaloids which can be harmful. Invasiveness: Some lupine species, particularly Lupinus polyphyllus, have become invasive in certain areas outside their native range. Children should not be left to play with seeds or pods of Lupine. These are the most toxic parts for children and can cause severe reactions if ingested. Contact with the leaves and stems does not usually cause reactions like rash or contact dermatitis.
What is the controversy with lupines?
Controversies Surrounding Lupines: Outcompeting native plants: Lupines spread aggressively, often crowding out slower-growing native flora, such as mosses and lichens. Deadhead lupins once flowers have faded, cutting back to ground level, which may encourage a second flush of flowers. In autumn, cut all lupin growth right back to the ground. Lupins are poisonous if ingested so wear gloves when handling.Overwintering: In colder climates, Lupins can be cut back to the ground after the first frost. Apply a layer of mulch over the root area to protect the plant during winter. By following these steps, you can successfully grow Lupin bare roots and enjoy their vibrant blooms in your garden for years to come.Lupins are great for planting in bold drifts with ornamental grasses and other tall perennials, such as bearded irises and delphiniums.Do lupins come back every year? There are several different species of lupinus; some are annual (which last one year only), others are perennial (which die back over winter and return the following spring), and there is also an evergreen, shrubby species.Deadheading, the process of removing spent flowers, is one of the simplest yet most effective techniques to encourage repeat blooms in lupines. When performed correctly, it redirects the plant’s energy from seed production back into flower generation.
What is the problem with lupines?
Lupines are vulnerable to slugs and snails due to their sweet sap. This isn’t a problem with lupines specifically but with the pests who enjoy them. Because their stems and leaves contain sweet sap, lupines are particularly attractive to slugs and snails. Slugs and snails are particularly fond of them and can ravage the emerging shoots in spring as soon as they start to grow so appropriate protection is needed. Lupins that have “died” over the winter may have been munched to oblivion as they commenced growth.Ecologists are concerned about the propagation of lupins–particularly along watercourses–which can displace native species and habitat, and spread rapidly downstream.Plants in containers are always more susceptible to cold, as their roots are less insulated than in the ground. To help lupins in containers survive winter: Move containers to a sheltered spot over winter, where they won’t be exposed to really harsh weather.Overwintering: In colder climates, Lupins can be cut back to the ground after the first frost. Apply a layer of mulch over the root area to protect the plant during winter. By following these steps, you can successfully grow Lupin bare roots and enjoy their vibrant blooms in your garden for years to come.