Canterbury Bells. This upright biennial is a mix of pink, white and blue bell-shaped flowers on tall stems. Height 75cm. Spread 30cm. Flowers June to August. Full sun/partial shade. Hardy. Attracts bees.
Campanula medium var. calycanthema, commonly known as bellflower, is a beautiful perennial that adds elegance and charm to gardens. With its stunning bell-shaped flowers, this variety thrives when properly planted and cared for. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, this guide will help ensure your Campanula medium var. calycanthema grows strong and blooms beautifully throughout the season.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
For optimal growth, plant your Campanula medium var. calycanthema during the spring when temperatures are warming. This gives the plant time to establish a strong root system before the heat of summer. Alternatively, early autumn planting can also be successful, allowing the plant to settle in before the colder months.
Choosing the Right Site
Sunlight: Campanula medium var. calycanthema prefers a spot in full sun or partial shade. Aim for at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day to encourage the best flowering. In regions with very hot summers, partial shade may help protect the plant from excessive heat.
Soil: Ensure that your Campanula medium var. calycanthema is planted in well-drained soil. This plant doesn’t tolerate soggy conditions, which can lead to root rot. Enrich the soil with compost to improve its texture and drainage for the best results.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is approximately twice the width of the root ball and of the same depth. This provides ample space for the roots of the Campanula medium var. calycanthema to grow comfortably.
Soil Enrichment: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance its fertility. Campanula medium var. calycanthema thrives in nutrient-rich soil, which promotes strong growth and vibrant blooms.
Planting: Place the plant in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole gently, firming the soil to eliminate any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water the plant thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil. Make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Campanula medium var. calycanthema is relatively drought-tolerant. However, it benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between sessions to prevent overwatering, which can cause root issues.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering during the dormant season. Water only if the soil becomes very dry, as the plant requires minimal moisture during this time.
Feeding
Spring: Begin the growing season by applying a balanced fertiliser to your Campanula medium var. calycanthema. This will support healthy growth and ensure the plant starts off strong.
Mid-Summer: If your plant is in a particularly nutrient-poor area, a light application of fertiliser in mid-summer will help encourage continued flowering. This ensures that the plant remains vigorous throughout the blooming season.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming and maintain a neat appearance. Deadheading also prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production.
Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers have faded, cut the plant back to the ground. This helps prepare your Campanula medium var. calycanthema for the winter and promotes healthy growth in the following year.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of the plant in spring. This will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, benefiting the plant’s growth.
Winter: In colder months, a light layer of mulch will help protect the roots from freezing temperatures, ensuring that your Campanula survives through the winter and thrives in the spring.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Campanula medium var. calycanthema generally has sturdy stems, but taller varieties may require light staking. If the plant is in a windy location, staking can prevent the stems from breaking.
Final Tips
Campanula medium var. calycanthema is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. By following this guide for planting, watering, feeding, and pruning, you’ll enjoy vibrant bell-shaped flowers throughout the growing season. Whether planted in garden beds, containers, or as part of a larger landscape design, this Campanula is sure to add beauty and charm to your outdoor space.
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Nicola K. (verified owner) –
Very healthy plants. Happy with my purchase