How to Grow Bellflower
Also known as campanula, bellflowers get their name from their tubular or saucer-shaped blossoms and come in more than 300 species of annuals, biennials and perennials. They are generally easy to care for, range in height from 3 inches to 5 feet tall with colors in pink, blue, lavender and white. Depending upon the species, bellflower is suitable for USDA zones 2 to 9. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- Compost or decayed manure
- Campanula plants
- Water
- Mulch
- Complete plant food
- Pruning shears
- Plant marker
- Straw
Instructions
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How to Grow Bellflower
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1
Select the site for the bellflower; there are three types of campanula, and each requires a different condition. Border plants need well-drained, fertile soil. Rock garden varieties need moist, fast-draining soil. Alpine varieties need a gritty scree to keep them from getting wet during the winter.
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2
Plant bellflower in the spring. Dig a hole that is bigger than the root. Carefully remove the plant from the container it came in and inspect the roots. If they appear root bound, gently loosen before placing in the hole. Fill the hole with soil and tamp down gently to remove air bubbles. Water to settle the soil. Space 6 to 12 inches apart.
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3
Water bellflower only when needed. Spread mulch over the site, but keep it clear from the crown of the plant. Apply a complete plant food about once a month. Slugs and snails are a big problem with bellflowers. Pick them off or use a chemical treatment. Some varieties can have a problem with rust.
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4
Watch for the bellflowers to bloom beginning in spring and continuing through early fall. They make beautiful cut flower displays. Cut the plants to the ground in late fall. Use a plant marker to indicate the bellflowers’ location in the garden. Cover with straw in the fall and winter.
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5
Bellflower can be divided in the fall or spring. Dig up the flower and divide the root system and replant. Space them 6 to 12 inches apart.
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Tips & Warnings
Check the guarantee and return policies of the nursery, gardening center, catalog or garden website where you buy the plants. Some have a one-year guarantee and require that you have the receipt, shipping invoice or shipping label.
Keep all chemicals out of the reach of children and animals.
