‘MELLOW YELLOW' COLUMBINE

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Mellow Yellow'

One of the most easily grown deerproof foliage plants. New spring growth is a bright glowing chartreuse. Flowers in spring are suitable for cutting. Fantastic with spring-blooming bulbs, and an excellent alternative to Heuchera where deer pressure is high.

Aquilegia seeds are peculiar in that the older they are, the more rapidly they will germinate at room temperature. Fresh seeds germinate best at cool temperatures over the course of several weeks. Sow at least some of these seeds immediately: tuck just below the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug. Mist generously and cover with plastic to maintain moisture. Place pot in a cool indoor windowsil, out of direct sunlight. Check frequently for germination. If no germination occurs after 3 or 4 weeks, pop the pot into the refrigerator for six weeks before returning to cool room temperature. Alternatively, place sown seeds in a sheltered location outdoors in autumn, like an unheated screen porch or cold frame. Do not allow soil to dry completely. Seeds will begin to germinate in the spring once temperatures warm. Prick out seedlings to grow on in 3" pots in bright indirect light.

In the garden these plants prefer some shade. Very adaptable, they will tolerate diverse soils. Color is most vibrant in early spring, and will darken to a soft green in the heat of summer. Given shade, brighter tones will persist. Ideal for a landscape that receives full sun in early spring and dappled shade in summer.

Hardy to at least zone 3.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.