What do you do with bluebell leaves after flowering?
After flowering has finished for the season leave the foliage in place; don’t cut it off. If they are naturalised in grass, avoid mowing until the leaves have fully died back. The leaves will gather sunlight, create food through photosynthesis and strengthen the bulbs for the future. Give them a light feed with a granular general plant food after flowering. Watering with a liquid plant food after flowering and until the foliage starts to die down will help build up their strength and size for the following year’s flowering. Allow the foliage to die down naturally after flowering.
Where should I plant Virginia bluebells?
Plant Virginia bluebells in the spring or fall in rich, moist soil in partial to full shade. Plants can handle a bit of morning sun. The sunnier the area, the more water the plants will need. They’re beautiful and easy to grow. Virginia bluebells are one of our most stunning native wildflowers—and they are a top-grade plant for gardens. They are native to moist woodlands, but they are very adaptable and happily grow in many types of soil. They will come back year after year in your garden.However, as bluebells can smother and outcompete other plants, it is usually necessary to regularly control their spread. If you like bluebells but are concerned about them spreading through borders, grow them in a container and deadhead spent flowers to prevent them spreading by seed.Native bluebells have: deep violet-blue (sometimes white), narrow, tubular-bell flowers, with tips that curl back.Bluebells in the green can take several years to establish after transplanting. It is not unusual to have only leaves in the year following transplanting, even if the plants are in flower when received from us.
Should I plant bluebells in my garden?
Bluebells are woodland plants, so they grow best in partial shade with moist but well-drained soil. Adding leaf mould, manure or garden compost to the soil will ensure they have plenty of nutrients. Try planting them in clumps under deciduous trees or shrubs to create a mini-woodland effect. Bluebells, like many bulbs, are easily killed with an application of glyphosate, applied early on before flowering.Leave the foliage until it has died back, but remove faded flower spikes if you don’t want bluebells to spread. All parts of bluebell plants are toxic and the sap can irritate skin, so it is best to wear gloves when handling.
What month do bluebells usually bloom?
Bluebells usually flower from late March to early May, but it does vary from year to year. Bluebells usually bloom in April and May, although they can sometimes appear as early as March. The peak time to catch them is between the end of April and the beginning of May.They’re easy to grow so you can recreate that amazing woodland bluebell carpet experience in miniature. You’ll get a welcome splash of colour in April and May. Nectar-seeking insects like bees will love the early food source. It’s a good plant for those tricky shady spots in the garden.Bluebells can be planted from March to June or in autumn from September to November for overwintering. Dig a hole that’s wide enough to fit the bulb comfortably, and at least 2-3 times their depth. If planting in groups, dig a trench instead of individual holes at the same depth.Every year in springtime, bluebells transform woodland floors across the country into a delicate sea of blue. Learn about the types of bluebell you’ll find in the UK, how to tell them apart and how this captivating little flower has long inspired writers, storytellers and even medical researchers.