Campanula: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Bellflowers
Introduction
Campanula, also known as bellflower, is a large and diverse genus of flowering plants. With over 300 species, there’s sure to be a campanula variety that’s perfect for your garden. These plants come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors, and they’re relatively easy to grow.
About Campanula
Campanula plants can be annuals, biennials, or perennials. They typically have bell-shaped flowers, but some varieties have star-shaped or cup-shaped blooms. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white.
Campanula plants can grow anywhere from a few inches to several feet tall. Some varieties are suitable for groundcover, while others make excellent cut flowers.
Growing Campanula
Campanula plants are generally easy to grow. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. However, some varieties can tolerate more shade or drought conditions.
To grow campanula from seed, sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 12-18 inches apart.
You can also propagate campanula by division or cuttings. To divide campanula, dig up the plant in the spring or fall and divide the root ball into sections. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil.
To take cuttings, cut a 4-inch stem from a healthy plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem and dip the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-drained soil and keep it moist.
Care
Campanula plants require minimal care. Water them regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize them monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage new growth. Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves.
Problems
Campanula plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Treat these problems with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Varieties
There are many different varieties of campanula, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Canterbury bells: These biennial plants produce tall, stately spikes of bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white.
- Harebells: These delicate perennials produce clusters of nodding, bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue or purple.
- Carpathian bellflower: This low-growing perennial produces masses of bright blue flowers in the spring.
- Serbian bellflower: This vigorous perennial produces tall, upright stems with clusters of bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue or purple.
- Spotted bellflower: This biennial plant produces tall, slender stems with clusters of bell-shaped flowers with spotted throats.
Conclusion
Campanula plants are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden. With so many different varieties to choose from, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your needs.
