Campanula trachelium
bellflower / bats-in-the-belfry
This attractive perennial is often found in hedges or woodland edges. Its bristly, nettle-like leaves form a basal clump, from which stout upright stems appear from midsummer to early autumn, bearing gorgeous lavender blue bells. In the garden Campanula trachelium looks wonderful when incorporated into naturalised planting schemes.
How to care for Campanula trachelium:
Plant in full sun or light shade, in moist but well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Space them with good airflow to help prevent mildew, and water during prolonged dry spells, especially in their first season. Protect emerging foliage in spring from slugs, which can cause early damage.
Stake with brushwood or canes early in the season to support the upright stems. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadhead regularly to extend the flowering period and reduce unwanted self-seeding. Cut back the faded flowering stems in late summer to neaten the plant and encourage possible late blooms. Divide congested clumps in spring or autumn to maintain vigour.
Stake with brushwood or canes early in the season to support the upright stems. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadhead regularly to extend the flowering period and reduce unwanted self-seeding. Cut back the faded flowering stems in late summer to neaten the plant and encourage possible late blooms. Divide congested clumps in spring or autumn to maintain vigour.
Sowing instructions:
Surface sow from January to May indoors onto moist well-drained seed compost. Do not cover seeds with soil, light is required for germination. Propagate at 18-20°C, germination occurs around 14-28 days. Once germinated, ventilate to prevent damping off. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 9cm pots, grow on in cooler conditions. Plant out once the risk of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Seeds can also be sown outdoors directly from May to June.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
approx 150 seeds
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