How to Grow Lupins
Lupinus
Lupins thrive in full sun to light shade and prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Soak or nick the hard seed coat before sowing indoors in early spring, covering seeds as they germinate best in darkness. Water regularly while plants establish but avoid waterlogging, which causes fatal crown rot. As nitrogen-fixing legumes, lupins need no fertiliser; simply cut spent flower spikes to the base after blooming to encourage a second flush of colour.
When to Start
Direct sow outdoors as soon as soil reaches 8°C — typically early to mid spring. Can also be started indoors 6 weeks earlier for a head start.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- No feeding required — lupins fix their own nitrogen. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
- Lupins are short-lived perennials often grown as annuals from seed. They flower prolifically in their first year from spring sowing. Cut back spent flower spikes to the base to encourage a second flush. Plants may not return after harsh winters, especially in heavy clay — hence this seasonal option.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 8°C+
- Germination temperature
- 12–18°C
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- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 45 cm |
| Row spacing | 50 cm |
| Sow depth | 1.5 cm |
| Mature height | 100 cm |
| Mature spread | 50 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 8°C |
| Germination temperature | 12–18°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 10h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | long day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Lupins?
- Plant Lupins 45cm apart with 50cm between rows.
- When does Lupins flower?
- Lupins typically flowers approximately 90 days after transplanting.
- Is Lupins frost hardy?
- Lupins is classified as Hardy.
