Bells Of Ireland: A Step-by-Step Growing Guide

shop.ie Editorial Teams

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Mar 15, 2025

46 visitor like this post

Share

Bells of Ireland: A Step-by-Step Growing Guide

Bells of Ireland ( Moluccella laevis) aren't your typical bell-shaped flowers. These unique plants boast striking, light green, bell-shaped calyxes that surround tiny, inconspicuous flowers. Their unusual appearance makes them a highly sought-after addition to fresh flower arrangements and adds a touch of whimsy to any garden. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of growing these captivating plants, from seed to stunning bloom.

Understanding Bells of Ireland: Planting Essentials

Before you even think about planting, understanding the needs of your Bells of Ireland is crucial for success. These plants thrive in full sun conditions, meaning at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They also prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, a common problem for this plant.

Choosing the Right Location

Select a sunny spot in your garden with loose, fertile soil. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and aeration. Consider the mature height of Bells of Ireland (around 3-4 feet) when choosing a location, ensuring they have enough space to grow without overcrowding.

Starting from Seed: The Best Approach

Bells of Ireland are typically grown from seed. Starting them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost ensures a longer blooming period.

Step-by-step guide to starting seeds indoors:

1. Sow Seeds: Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep in seed-starting mix.
2. Keep Moist: Maintain consistently moist soil but avoid overwatering.
3. Provide Light: Place seed trays in a sunny location or under grow lights.
4. Thin Seedlings: Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, thin them to give each plant ample space.
5. Harden Off: Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.

Transplanting and Ongoing Care

Once the danger of frost has passed, it's time to transplant your Bells of Ireland seedlings into your prepared garden bed.

Transplanting Outdoors:

1. Space Properly: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.
2. Water Deeply: Water deeply after transplanting to help them establish strong root systems.

Ongoing Care:

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim for consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
• Fertilizing: Feed your Bells of Ireland with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests and diseases. Common issues include powdery mildew and aphids. Address any problems promptly with appropriate treatment.
• Deadheading: Deadheading (removing spent flowers) is not necessary, as the plant's beauty lies in the calyxes, not the flowers themselves.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Bells of Ireland

The striking green calyxes are the main attraction of Bells of Ireland. They're typically harvested when they are fully developed and a deep, rich green color.

Harvesting Tips:

1. Timing: Harvest when the calyxes are firm and fully colored, usually around 70-80 days after transplanting.
2. Cutting: Cut the stems cleanly with a sharp knife or shears.
3. Conditioning: Condition cut stems in a bucket of water for several hours before arranging.

Using Bells of Ireland: These unique plants add a dramatic element to floral arrangements. Their upright stems and striking green calyxes create stunning contrasts with other flowers and foliage.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

While relatively easy to grow, some issues may arise. Here are some solutions:

• Leggy Seedlings: This is often caused by insufficient light. Ensure adequate light, either through supplemental lighting or a sunnier location.
• Powdery Mildew: Improve air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and avoid overhead watering. Consider using a fungicide if the problem persists.
• Aphids: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphid infestations.

By following these simple steps, you can successfully cultivate stunning Bells of Ireland and enjoy their unique beauty in your garden and floral arrangements. Remember, patience and consistent care are key to achieving a bountiful harvest of these exquisite plants.