Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous
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Soil
Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost.
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Position
Full sun to partial shade.
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Frost tolerant
Yes, campanula is a hardy perennial, with many species originating in northern Europe. Well-rooted plants are hardy to -30°F (-34°C).
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Feeding
Drench with a liquid organic fertilizer when plants begin to grow tall in late spring or early summer. Feed again in late summer to prolong bloom time.
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Companions
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Spacing
Single Plants: 11" (30cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 11" (30cm) with 11" (30cm) row gap (minimum)
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Sow and Plant
Canterbury bells is a biennial or short-lived perennial, best started from seed sown in summer. Keep the little plants weeded, and nurse them through winter, and then enjoy a profusion of flowers in spring. Alternatively, start with potted plants of improved varieties, which are widely available in spring. Set out plants as early as possible, while the soil is still cool. Spread the roots with your fingers, and take care not to bury the crown, which can lead to rotting. Young plants need water when they are actively growing. A surface mulch suppresses weeds while making the plants look more attractive.
Our Garden Planning Tool can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
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Notes
Campanulas are valued for their blue color, with plant size and habit varying with species. Several types are vigorous ground covers, which other form clumps suitable for a rock garden. Check plant tags to make sure you are buying the type of campanula you want.
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Harvesting
Gather stems for use in cut arrangements as you need them. Removing spent blossoms will keep the plants in bloom longer. In midsummer, cut plants back by half to encourage a strong flush of new growth. Allow biennial Canterbury bells time to develop mature seeds. In hospitable sites, it is a modest reseeder.
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Troubleshooting
Most campanulas grow best in climates with cool summer nights. Humid heat causes them to melt down soon after flowering.
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