How to Grow Bluebells – A Complete Grow And Care Profile

How to Grow Native English Bluebells and Tell Them Apart from Spanish Bluebells

Discover how to grow the beautiful native English bluebell, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, and learn how to identify it from the introduced Spanish bluebell, Hyacinthoides hispanica.

The English bluebell is a small, bulbous perennial that flowers in April and May, creating a breathtaking display in woodlands across the British Isles. Known for carpeting the woodland floor before tree leaves fully open, it’s estimated that 25-49% of the world’s bluebell population is found in the UK. This makes the English bluebell an important part of the national landscape. When planted in shady gardens, they make excellent ground cover and thrive in conditions similar to their natural habitat.

However, the native bluebell faces challenges due to hybridization with the Spanish bluebell. Introduced to Britain in the 17th century, the Spanish bluebell is larger and more vigorous, making it a potential threat to the native species. Hybrids, which are fertile and capable of reproducing, are often found in gardens. They resemble English bluebells but lack the characteristic “drooping” appearance and have lighter-colored petals, sometimes pink, along with thicker leaves. These hybrids are also capable of hybridizing with native bluebells, further threatening their survival.

While Spanish bluebells and their hybrids are not classified as invasive in England and Wales, Plantlife advises against planting them near native bluebell colonies to prevent accidental hybridization. In Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, however, the Spanish bluebell is considered invasive, and it’s illegal to plant or allow it to grow in the wild. In Scotland, it is also an offense to plant any non-native plant in the wild.

Where to Grow Bluebells

• Ideal Location: Bluebells thrive in partially shaded areas with cool, moist conditions. They grow naturally in woodlands, so they’ll do well under trees or in shaded corners of your garden.
• Soil Type: Prefer well-drained, rich, loamy soil. Bluebells can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
• Best Time to Plant: Plant bluebells in the fall for a vibrant display in the spring.

How to Plant Bluebells

1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil in the planting area and mix in some compost for better drainage and nutrients.
2. Plant the Bulbs: Plant bluebell bulbs about 3-4 inches deep, with the pointed end facing upwards. Space them about 4-6 inches apart to allow for natural spreading.
3. Watering: After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly and ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy.

How to Care for Bluebells

• Watering: Bluebells don’t require frequent watering. Water them when the soil feels dry, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly in early spring as the bulbs begin to grow, but avoid overfeeding.
• Deadheading: Remove faded flower spikes if you don’t want the bluebells to spread. Leave the foliage to die back naturally to ensure strong flowers next year.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and protect the bulbs.

How to Propagate Bluebells

Bluebells can be propagated by division or by collecting and planting the seeds.

• Division: After a few years, clumps of bluebells can be divided in the fall when they are dormant. Carefully dig up the bulbs, split the clumps, and replant.
• From Seeds: Bluebells can also be grown from seeds, though it may take a few years for them to flower. Sow the seeds in late fall or early spring, and keep the soil moist.

Growing Bluebells: Problem Solving

• Pests and Diseases: Bluebells are relatively pest-resistant, but occasionally, they may face fungal issues or slug damage. Use natural remedies, such as copper tape, to protect your plants.
• Stunted Growth: If your bluebells aren’t growing well, ensure they have adequate shade, moisture, and soil nutrients.

Bluebell Varieties

• English Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta): The traditional bluebell with delicate, nodding flowers and a sweet fragrance.
• Spanish Bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica): Taller and more robust than the English variety, with larger flowers that often appear in shades of blue, pink, or white.
• Hybrid Bluebells: A cross between the English and Spanish bluebells, often exhibiting characteristics of both.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do when my bluebell flowers have finished blooming?
To ensure healthy blooms next year, avoid mowing the grass while the bluebell foliage is dying down. Allow the foliage to naturally die back, but feel free to remove faded flower spikes if you don’t want bluebells to spread. Since all parts of bluebells are toxic and their sap can irritate the skin, it’s recommended to wear gloves when handling them.

How can I effectively get rid of Spanish bluebells?
Spanish bluebells can be challenging to remove once they’re established. The best method is to dig up and dispose of the deep-rooted bulbs in your local council garden waste collection, not in the compost heap. It may take several years of repeated digging to fully remove them. Avoid using weedkiller, as it is ineffective against bluebells and can harm other plants and wildlife.