Alpine Bell Flowering Bulbs

Uses

• Alpine bells are perfect for the rock garden, tucked into a rocky area that needs a pop of vibrant color. They also work well in a perennial patio garden or used to line walkways or garden paths. Consider planting the bulbs in vinca, ivy or other ground cover to give the flowers an attractive backdrop. Suitable companion plants include the annual sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima; USDA zones 5 through 9), knapweed (Centaurea dealbata; USDA zones 4 through 8) and yellow daylilies (Hemerocallis cvs.; USDA zones 2 or 3 through 9).

Soil

• To avoid bulb rot, the alpine bell bulb requires fast-draining soil. A variety of amendments can be added to the soil to aid drainage, including chunky compost and sharp sand. Compost is ideal as it also adds nutrients to the soil. Add 2 to 3 inches of compost to the top 6 to 8 inches of soil before planting, suggests soil specialists with the Colorado State University Extension.

Planting

• The best time to plant alpine bells is in the fall in well-tilled soil. Dig holes that are 4 inches deep and 2 to 3 inches apart, place the bulbs in the hole and backfill with soil. Don’t press the soil over the planting area. It’s important to keep the soil somewhat moist but never soggy as the bulbs become established.

Problems

• Bulb rot is caused by the fungal pathogen Botrytis allii. The first noticeable symptoms include stunting and dying foliage. Bulb rot typically occurs during wet weather when the temperature is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Prevent the disease by ensuring that the bulbs remain undamaged by insects, disease or careless handling. Be on the lookout for onion flies (Delia antiqua or Hylemya antiqua) as well. These pests -- a bit smaller than houseflies -- lay their eggs on the soil, near the plant’s main stem. After hatching, the maggots burrow into the soil and feed on the alpine bell's bulb. Symptoms include wilting in young plants and decay of older plants. Use an insecticide labeled for use in managing onion flies.