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How to Grow Bluebells

How to Grow Bluebells

Often grown as large plantings under trees or banks, Bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica)provide a soft touch of colour to the garden. Their dainty lavender-blue bell shaped flowers that appear in Spring, are commonly used in rockery plantings, grassy banks or as boarders. 

Full sun to part shade

Regular watering, can tolerate some periods of drought

Good drainage

Early to mid autumn (March to April). Cool to warm temperate climates

How to grow bluebells in a garden

Step 1

Choose a well drained spot in the garden that attracts full sun to part shade.

Step 2

Enrich the soil with some compost and Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser before planting.

Step 3

Place bulbs directly where the plant is to grow at a depth of 7cm and spaced 10cm apart.

Step 4

Cover with soil.

Step 5

Once the bulbs start to sprout gently water to keep the soil lightly moist.

Step 6

When flower buds appear feed every 1 to 2 weeks with Yates Thrive Roses and Flowers Liquid Plant Food.

Step 7

Continue to lightly water the plant after the flowers and foliage have died off, keeping the soil lightly moist.

Step 8

Once the foliage has died off, cease watering. The bulbs can stay in the soil for the next season or pulled up and stored in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.
how to grow bluebells 2

How to grow bluebells in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot that has adequate drainage holes and place it in a position that gets full sun to part shade.

Step 2

Fill the pot with Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 3

Place bulbs directly where the plant is to grow at a depth of 7cm and spaced 10cm apart.

Step 4

Cover with soil.

Step 5

Once the bulbs start to sprout gently water to keep the soil lightly moist.

Step 6

When flower buds appear feed every 1 to 2 weeks with Yates Thrive Roses and Flowers Liquid Plant Food.

Step 7

Continue to lightly water the plant after the flowers and foliage have died off, keeping the soil lightly moist.

Step 8

Once the foliage has died off, cease watering. Remove the bulbs and store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.

Growing tips

  • Bluebells grow best in the part shady areas, under tree canopies but can handle full sun.
  • These bulbs are low growing and will form a delicate floral border in large pots, rockeries or garden edges.
  • Bulbs can be left in the ground for many years after planting and will over time become naturalised to an area.
  • The most common variety available is the Spanish Bluebell which can grow up to 30cm.

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