Discover how to grow Canterbury Bell, charming bell-shaped flowers perfect for USA gardens. Learn about planting, care and problem-solving for these eye-catching blooms in this easy-to-understand guide.
Have you ever seen flowers that look like tiny bells? Those might have been Canterbury Bell! Let’s learn about these pretty flowers and how to grow them in your garden.
Here’s an easy and verified chart for Canterbury Bells:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Campanula medium |
| Common Name | Canterbury Bells |
| Plant Type | Biennial or short-lived perennial |
| Hardiness Zone | Zones 5-8 (usually grown as an annual in colder zones) |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, fertile soil |
| Watering Needs | Average; prefers evenly moist soil |
| Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming |
| Height/Spread | 1-3 feet tall, spread of 1-2 feet |
| Special Features | Bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white; blooms in late spring to early summer; attractive to bees and butterflies; deer resistant |
What are Canterbury Bells?
Canterbury Bells, also known as Campanula medium, are flowers that get their name from their bell-like shape. They come in shades of blue, pink and white. These flowers are part of the bellflower family and are native to southern Europe.
Why Grow Canterbury Bells?
- They’re eye-catching and unique
- They attract bees and other pollinators
- They’re great for cut flower arrangements
- They’re not too hard to grow
How to Plant Canterbury Bells
Planting Time:
Plant Canterbury Bells in spring or fall. In colder areas, it’s better to plant in spring after the last frost. Check your local frost dates at the National Weather Service.
Choosing a Spot:
These flowers like partial sun to full sun. Pick a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Soil:
Canterbury Bells prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some compost to improve drainage. Learn more about soil types from the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Planting Steps:
- Dig holes about 12-18 inches apart
- Place the plants in the holes at the same depth they were in their pots
- Fill with soil and water well
Caring for Your Canterbury Bells
Water:
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot weather.
Fertilizer:
Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer in spring when new growth starts. The Clemson Cooperative Extension has good info on fertilizers.
Pruning:
Remove dead flowers to encourage more blooms. This is called “deadheading.”
Winter Care: In cold areas, cover the plants with mulch in late fall to protect them from frost.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Slugs and Snails: These pests love Canterbury Bells. Use slug bait or set out shallow dishes of beer to trap them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungus looks like white powder on the leaves. To prevent it, avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Learn more from the University of Minnesota Extension.
- Root Rot: This happens if the soil is too wet. Make sure your soil drains well to prevent this problem.
Fun Ways to Use Canterbury Bells
- In cottage gardens
- As border plants
- In rock gardens
- In containers on a porch or patio
For garden design ideas, check out the Purdue University Landscape Report.
Where to Buy Canterbury Bells
You can find Canterbury Bell seeds or plants at many garden centers. You can also order them online. Before buying, make sure they’ll grow well in your area by checking the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
Canterbury Bells are beautiful flowers that can add charm to any garden. They’re not too hard to grow, and their bell-shaped blooms are sure to catch everyone’s eye. Why not try growing some in your garden this year?
For more flower gardening tips, visit the National Gardening Association, a great resource for gardeners of all levels.
For more gardening tips and plant care guides, visit usagardenhub.com.
