Lupins: A cottage Garden Favourite

Lupins (Lupinus spp.) are one of those old-fashioned cottage garden staples that never go out of style. With their bold spires of pea-like flowers and dramatic palmate foliage, they bring height, texture, and a burst of colour to summer borders. Whether you're planting a sunny bed or creating a pollinator-friendly garden, lupins are a stunning choice – and with modern series like Gallery and Westcountry, there’s never been a better time to grow them.

Choosing the Right Lupins: Gallery vs Westcountry

Before you sow or plant, it’s worth knowing the difference between two of the most popular lupin series on the market:

🌸 Gallery Series

Photo by Andreas Haubold on Unsplash

The Gallery series is ideal for smaller gardens or containers. These compact hybrids reach around 45–60cm tall. They're early flowering and come in a range of solid and bicolour shades, such as Gallery Blue, Pink, White, and Yellow. Perfect for front-of-border planting or compact spaces.

🌼 Westcountry Series

Lupin Wescountry 'Masterpiece', Photo Windyridge Garden Centre

For drama and size, look no further than the Westcountry series, bred by Westcountry Nurseries in the UK. These lupins are larger (up to 90–100cm), with densely packed, almost sculptural flower spikes in sumptuous colours. Names like 'Masterpiece', 'Manhattan Lights', and 'Terracotta' say it all – they’re grown for maximum impact and often win RHS awards. Ideal for central planting in mixed borders.

How to Grow Lupins Successfully

☀️ Position

Lupins thrive in full sun. They’ll tolerate light shade, but you’ll get the best flower spikes when they bask in sunlight for most of the day.

🌱 Soil

Well-drained, slightly acidic soil is ideal. Avoid heavy clay and very alkaline conditions. They dislike sitting in winter-wet soil, so good drainage is key.

🌧️ Watering

Water well during dry spells, especially in their first year. Once established, they’re relatively drought-tolerant – but flowering can suffer in prolonged dry weather without supplemental water.

🌱 Planting Tips

• From seed: Sow indoors in spring or direct-sow in late spring to early summer. Scarifying or soaking seeds overnight improves germination.
• From plugs or pots: Plant out after the last frost. Space them about 30–45cm apart depending on the variety.

Aftercare for Bigger Blooms

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage a second flush.
• Stake taller varieties like Westcountry if your garden is exposed or windy.
• Mulch annually with organic matter in spring, avoiding direct contact with the crown.
• Watch for aphids and slugs, which can damage new shoots.

Final Thoughts

Lupins are one of those plants that deliver both structure and spectacle. Whether you’re planting for colour, wildlife, or traditional beauty, Gallery and Westcountry lupins offer something for every garden. Just remember the basics: full sun, good drainage, and a little post-flower care – and you’ll be rewarded with towers of bloom year after year.