Campanula Portenschlagiana Information
Campanula portenschlagiana, or bellflower, is known by several names, including Resholt's Variety Dalmation bellflower and wall harebell. The plant is known for its deep blue flowers, which cover it throughout the summer growing season. Campanula's bell- or cup-shaped glowers turn directly upward into the sun, giving the plant a striking appearance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Growing Habit
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Campanula portenschlagiana is shorter than many other varieties of bellflower. On average it grows 6 to 10 inches tall, with plants reaching a foot in diameter at about one year. Often used as a ground cover, Campanula will continue to spread via runners throughout its lifetime. Under ideal growing conditions, it can choke out other plants and take over a section of the garden. In most climates, plants begins blooming in May and continue to produce flowers until the first deep frost.
Growing Conditions
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Although it tolerates the cold well, Campanula portenschlagiana does not thrive in extreme heat. It grows best in United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. This bellflower is not picky about soil type, but the soil should be well drained and kept moist. Plants can withstand dry conditions for short periods of time. Campanula portenschlagiana should be planted in full sun. It will survive in partly shady conditions but will not grow as quickly or bloom as profusely.
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Care
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To keep Campanula portenschlagiana thriving, water regularly so soil remains moist. Plants should be treated with an all-purpose fertilizer twice per year. They do not require any pruning but can be sheared to improve appearance or encourage additional blooms. Removing spent blooms will encourage repeat flowering throughout the summer.
Problems
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Bellflowers like Campanula portenschlagiana are susceptible to root rot and powdery mildew. Both of these conditions can be prevented by placing the plants in well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering. Powdery mildew can be treated by removing infected areas and improving drainage. If a bellflower has root rot, it should be pulled and discarded.
Campanula portenschlagiana are also often attacked by slugs and snails. Damage from these pests can be stopped by plucking them off the plant by hand. Snail and slug baits can also help stop infestations, but must be used when the weather is warm and humidity is low.
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