Lupin

Plant in spring or autumn in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Lupins dislike chalk and heavy clay, so add composted bark to improve drainage on difficult sites. Space plants 45-60 cm apart and water regularly until established. Avoid rich feeding — their nitrogen-fixing roots make additional fertiliser unnecessary and excess nitrogen produces foliage at the expense of flowers. Deadhead immediately after the first flush to encourage a second smaller display in late summer. Lupins are relatively short-lived, typically lasting three to five years, so propagate regularly to maintain your stock.

Cut each flower spike down to a strong set of leaves immediately after fading to promote a second flush. Cut all foliage back to ground level in late autumn once it has yellowed. Remove any damaged or diseased leaves during the growing season to improve air circulation.