Instructions:

1. Prepare Soil: Choose well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and remove any rocks or debris.

2. Start Indoors (Optional): For earlier blooms, start delphinium seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Use seed trays or pots filled with seed-starting mix.

3. Plant Seeds: Sow delphinium seeds on the soil surface and press them lightly into the soil. Do not cover the seeds, as they need light to germinate. Water gently after planting.

4. Provide Cold Treatment (Optional): Some delphinium seeds benefit from a period of cold treatment (stratification) to improve germination rates. Place seed trays in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks before moving them to a warm location for germination.

5. Provide Sunlight: Delphiniums prefer full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

6. Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom of seed trays to avoid disturbing seeds.

7. Transplant: Once delphinium seedlings have developed several true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden. Space seedlings 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety.

8. Support Plants: Delphiniums have tall flower spikes that may need support. Use stakes or a plant support ring to prevent them from bending or breaking in strong winds.

9. Watering: Water delphinium plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil evenly moist, as delphiniums prefer consistently moist conditions.

10. Fertilize (Optional): Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote lush foliage at the expense of flowers.