How to Transplant Coral Bells
Coral bells, better known as heuchera (HUE-ker-uh), have a neat mounding shape which makes them an excellent choice for the front of flower borders. Site coral bells where they will have protection from hot summer sun in well-drained, humus rich soil. Coral bells prefer light or dappled shade although some types with variegated white or yellow leaves will need more sun to keep their variegation. Always prepare the new planting site before you dig up your coral bell. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Transplant coral bells in mid spring before they bloom or in late summer or early fall after they finish blooming.
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Choose a spot that gives your coral bell afternoon shade. This is particularly important for southern gardeners as coral bells are not fond of hot, dry summer weather.
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Dig up the entire plant getting as much of the root ball as possible.
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Prune off broken or damaged leaves and roots. If you are transplanting coral bells in spring be sure not to remove the flower spikes.
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Divide large plants using a sharp shovel to split the plant into several sections. Remove woody, older growth from the sections using the shovel or pruning shears. The woody growth is generally contained in the center of mature coral bells.
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Work 3 to 4 inches of compost into the top 6 to 12 inches of soil at the planting site.
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Dig a hole just big enough for the root ball. Plant the coral bell at the same depth it was growing at. Tamp the soil firmly around the base of the coral bell as you backfill the hole.
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Give your newly transplanted coral bell 1 to 2 inches of water. Continue to give your coral bell 1 to 2 inches of water a week during the growing season (March through September) for the first year after transplant.
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Tips & Warnings
Gardeners in areas with cool (75 to 85) summers can site coral bells in full sun.
Gardeners with heavy clay soils should plant coral bells in raised beds.
Coral bells are pest, disease and drought resistance. They can take the place of hostas in shade gardens.
Do not plant coral bells in heavy clay or poorly drained soils as they are prone to root and crown rot in these situations.
