Columbine 'Nora Barlow' in September: monthly care

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow' thrives in partial shade or full sun, though in warmer spots some afternoon shade helps prevent scorching and prolongs flowering. Choose a position with loam or clay soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. The plant tolerates heavier soils well, making it a good choice for gardens with clay. Prepare the soil by digging in well-rotted compost or manure to improve structure and fertility, especially if your soil is heavy clay. This also aids drainage while maintaining the moderate moisture levels aquilegias prefer. Plant 'Nora Barlow' in March, April, September, or October when the soil is workable and temperatures are mild. Spring planting allows the plant to establish before summer, while autumn planting gives roots time to settle before winter dormancy. Set young plants at the same depth they were growing in their pots, spacing them 35 cm apart to allow for their mature spread of 30–45 cm. If sowing seed, scatter thinly on the surface and barely cover, as aquilegia seed needs light to germinate. Sow in pots in early spring or directly outdoors in late spring, though named varieties like 'Nora Barlow' may not come true from seed. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets. Apply a 5 cm layer of organic mulch such as compost or leaf mould around the base, keeping it clear of the crown to prevent rot. This conserves moisture and suppresses weeds while the plant establishes. In dry spells during the first growing season, water regularly until the root system is well developed.