Bells of Ireland

 

Sowing: Sow indoors in Spring or in fall in warm climate

To hasten germination, prechill the seeds for 5 days. Place the seeds in a moistened piece of kitchen roll and place in the fridge for 5 days.

 

Sow seed on the surface of lightly firmed well drained seed compost in pots or trays. “Just cover” the seed with a light sprinkling of compost or vermiculite, do not exclude light as this helps germination Keep at a temperature of around 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F). After sowing, keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination can take between 12- 30 days

 

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays and grow on. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10 to 15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 22 to 30cm (9 to 12in) apart.

 

Cultivation:

For best results site in a well drained position in full sun. The flowers take around 90 to 100 days from seed to bloom. 

The stems should not need staking unless the area is exposed and subject to high winds.

 

Planting Depth: Bells of Ireland seeds require sunlight to germinate, so plant them no more than 1/16" deep. Plant Spacing: Plant, thin, or transplant your Bells of Ireland at least one foot apart.

This is a fast-growing border plant with unusual qualities including an ability to survive for months as a cut flower. 
To use for fresh arrangements, harvest the flower heads at their peak of blooming. The stems are hollow making them difficult to use with Oasis foam. Professional florists insert a wired stake into the hollow stem for use in foam.
Display in a cool, shaded area and kept supplied with fresh water, they will remain fresh for 7 to 10 days. Re-cut 12mm (½in) from the base of each Bells of Ireland stem under water using a sharp knife with each water change to extend the life of the blooms. Remove any foliage that may become submerged after re-cutting to avoid bacterial growth.

Display in a cool, shaded area and kept supplied with fresh water, they will remain fresh for 7 to 10 days. Re-cut ½in from the base of each Bells of Ireland stem under water using a sharp knife with each water change to extend the life of the blooms. Remove any foliage that may become submerged after re-cutting to avoid bacterial growth.