Lupin about to flower?

[bario1]

Hi, one of the lupins i grew from seed this year looks like it's about to send up a flower spike.... i thought they flowered in year two?

[cheops]

Yes - Usually they grow and develop a strong root system in the first year and then they are ready to fly next late spring. A lot depends on how early in the year your seedlings sprouted. My advice would be as soon as you can clearly see the flower stem cut it off. Your young plant will now not waste energy with that flower and instead get on with becoming a strong healthy plant next year.

[bario1]

Brutal!