Bellflower – “Campanula campana”

Campanula campana, commonly known as Bellflower, is a charming perennial or biennial prized for its bell-shaped blooms in shades of soft blue, lavender, and white. With a trailing or upright habit, it’s perfect for borders, rock gardens, hanging baskets, or as a cascading element in containers. Its gentle flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to eco-conscious gardens.

Growing Conditions
✅ Plant Size:

Height: 30–60 cm

Width: 25–45 cm

✅ Climate:

Thrives in cool to moderate climates.

Best suited for Western Cape, Eastern Cape Highlands, Gauteng, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

Prefers spring and autumn planting in very hot or humid regions.

✅ Soil Requirements:

Well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost.

pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.0–7.5).

Avoid heavy clay or soggy soils.

✅ Sunlight Needs:

Prefers full sun to partial shade.

Ideal: Morning sun with afternoon shade in hotter climates.

Planting Instructions
✅ Best Planting Time:

Spring: August–October

Autumn: March–April (in warmer zones)

✅ Sowing Seeds:

Seed Trays: Sow indoors in trays and transplant once seedlings are 5–8 cm tall and strong.

Direct Sowing: Possible in well-prepared beds with fine soil.

Spacing: 20–30 cm apart for good airflow and healthy growth.

Germination Time: 14–21 days at 15–20°C.

Light is required for germination – do not cover seeds heavily.

✅ Staking:

Not usually necessary due to compact growth, but tall varieties may benefit from support.

Watering & Fertilization
✅ Watering:

Keep soil moist but not soggy, especially during early growth.

Water 2–3 times weekly during dry periods.

Tolerates light drought once mature.

✅ Fertilization:

At Planting: Add compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

During Growth: Feed monthly with a liquid flower-boosting fertilizer (e.g., 3:1:5 or 5:10:10).

✅ Mulching:

Apply a light mulch layer to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest & Disease Management
✅ Common Pests:

Slugs & Snails – Use organic pellets or beer traps.

Aphids – Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

✅ Common Diseases:

Root Rot – Avoid waterlogged soil.

Powdery Mildew – Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.

Flowering & Maintenance
✅ Bloom Time:

Late spring through early summer, often with repeat flowering in early autumn.

✅ Deadheading & Pruning:

Regularly remove spent blooms to extend flowering.

Lightly prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth.

✅ Fragrance:

Mildly sweet and floral, though not strongly scented.

Garden Uses & Companion Planting
✅ Companion Plants:

Blends beautifully with daisies, scabiosa, salvia, and lavender.

Pairs well with ornamental grasses and creeping thyme.

Plant near nasturtiums or chives to deter aphids.

✅ Best Uses:

Border edges, rock gardens, pots and containers, hanging baskets, or as a groundcover in partially shaded areas.

Why Grow Campanula campana?
Graceful bell-shaped flowers add whimsy and movement to any garden.

Pollinator-friendly and excellent for low-maintenance landscapes.

Versatile, compact, and perfect for both traditional and modern gardens.

Bring a touch of bell-like beauty to your garden – order your Campanula campana seeds today! 🌸🔔