Coral Bells Planting Period

Transplanting Time

• Wait until all danger of frost is over in spring before planting the nursery plants. Water the pot well and leave to drain overnight before transplanting. Dig the planting hole the same depth as the pot and water well after planting. Add about one-half cup of a plant starter solution around the root zone to help with establishment. Space plants about 1 to 1.5 feet apart and plant in groups for best effect. (Reference 2)

Seed Planting

• Prepare a bed outside during late fall and in very cold weather to start coral bells from seed. Plant seeds by pressing them onto the soil surface. Wait until spring before applying enough water to keep the ground moist. Start seeds indoor in moist peat during fall.

  Place a tray in a perforated plastic bag and leave in a warm, 65 degree Fahrenheit spot. It will take eight to nine weeks for seeds to germinate. Transfer seedlings to individual pots after seedlings grow the second pair of leaves. Plant outdoor in spring.

Division

• New plants may be grown from the old by dividing coral bells every two to three years. Dig up the entire plant during the fresh growth period in spring. Use a sharp knife to divide the parent plant into sections containing several stems and roots. Plant these sections into an already prepared bed. Water to keep the soil consistently moist until the plants are established. These new plants are more vigorous and healthier in growth than the parent plant.

Site and Soil

• Select an area receiving light shade. Coral bells will tolerate full sun with regular watering in regions with cooler weather. The plants are hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 10. (Reference 3). The plants require a fertile, well-drained soil for best growth. For optimal growth, amend soil with organic material like rotted manures, leaf mold, peat moss or compost prior to planting. Apply a 10-10-10 fertilizer around plants during spring. (Reference 2)