Aquilegia Vulgaris are perennials in the Ranunculaceae family. Commonly known as Columbines, these hardy flowers are excellent for any garden – providing showy and attractive foliage and blooms. The Winky Double Red-White is a cultivar of this species that is great for both the garden and containers, producing a lush and abundant plants of bright white and crimson variegated flowers. These lovely plants can bring beauty and life to any garden!
How to Plant
When deciding where to plant Winky Double Red-White, it is best to choose a location with full sun to part shade, however, during extremely hot days, partial shade is recommended. Columbines require a porous and well-draining soil with a neutral pH. It is essential for plants to be watered regularly in the early months, so it is important to provide an ample amount of water, without over saturating the soil. Once established, Winky Double Red-White rarely need additional watering. This variety of Columbine does not need any fertilizer, but it performs best in soil that is amended with some organic matter like compost.
Meaning and Symbolism
Columbines, especially the Winky Double Red-White variety, represent both happiness, beauty and love. They also indicate diversity and change in era, representing both the fragility, as well as the resilience of life. In some cultures, they are seen as a symbol of grace and elegance, while in some cultures they are seen as a representation of strong emotions like courage and enthusiasm.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
The Winky Double Red-White can be traced back to the 15th century, when it became a popular flower for decorating and dyeing in Victorian gardens. Its unique coloration has been associated with many cultures, such as the Ancient Greeks who viewed it as a symbol of seduction due to its delicate fragrance. In many Christian denominations, the flower symbolizes a mother’s love; even the name of the flower, Columbine, coming from the Latin word columba – meaning “dove”.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
The Winky Double Red-White variety of Columbine is easy to identify due to its showy crimson and white variegated blossoms in large bouquets from late spring to early summer. Its bushy habit and sturdy stems give it a unique look and make it an excellent choice for the garden, patio, or in containers. Additionally, the Winky Double Red-White is part of a series that is known for its unique floriferous bloom. Although its bloom may be short-lived, these flowers have the ability to self-seed, allowing for a larger colony of them in the garden.
How to Pot and Repot
When planting Winky Double Red-White, it is important to ensure that the soil is drained well, yet remains moist. As these plants are quite small, they should be placed in a small to medium size pot with a good quality potting soil. When planting in a pot, or re-potting, make sure to use a light, well draining soil mix with enough nutrients. It is recommended to water with a liquid fertilizer on a regular basis, to ensure the plant receives the nutrients it needs. Furthermore, use a soil-based potting mixture rather than a peat-based one, as Columbine may be prone to root rot in a peat-based pot.
How to Prune
Pruning Winky Double Red-White is one of the best maintenance practices for keeping your plants blooming abundantly throughout the season. Cut back fading flowers as soon as possible to encourage new blooms. If the plant becomes unruly, you can also trim a few inches off the top of the plant in the middle of the season – this will encourage new growth and a healthy shape. It is best to wait until the weather is cooler; late summer is usually the best time for pruning. When pruning, make sure not to cut too much of the stems, as doing so will reduce the amount of flowers the plants produce.
How to Propagate
Propagating Winky Double Red-White is easy and can be done in many different ways. The simplest way to propagate is to use cuttings. Take a few cuttings with at least two leaves and pot them in a light soil. Make sure to keep the soil evenly moist and in a few weeks you should see new growth. Another option is to collect seeds from self-seeding plants in the garden and sow them into the ground. These methods can also be used for other varieties of Columbines.
Common Pests and Diseases
Although Winky Double Red-White are generally resistant to pests and diseases, certain bugs and fungal diseases can still cause damage to the plant if left unchecked. The most common pests to look out for are aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust may also affect Columbines. To prevent damage to your plant, regular inspection of the foliage and stems is recommended. In case of pest infestation, use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to keep them in control. If the plants are infected with fungal diseases, use fungicides or other environmentally friendly treatments.
Questions and Answers
Q: When is the best time to plant Winky Double Red-White?
A: The best time to plant Winky Double Red-White is in the spring. This will give the plants time to establish before the summer heat and any potential pests.
Q: How often should I water my Winky Double Red-White?
A: Water the plants regularly in the early months and then, once established, they should not need additional watering. However, if there is a lack of rainfall, it is best to water the plants once a week.
Q: How far apart should I space my Winky Double Red-White?
A: The plants should be spaced at least 12 inches apart. This will ensure that they have enough room to grow and spread.
Table Fact Sheet
| Name | Aquilegia Vulgaris ‘Winky Double Red-White’ |
|---|---|
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 10-30 Inches Tall |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun to Part Shade |
| Soil Type | Porous and well-draining |
| Soil pH | Neutral |
| Bloom Time | Late Spring to Early Summer |
| Flower Color | Crimson and White Variegated |
| Hardiness Zones | 3-9 |
| Native Area | Europe and Asia |
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