While infestations and disease aren’t common, the plant can be affected by various insects and fungal diseases, both of which are treatable when addressed early. You should overwinter Canterbury bells indoors during their first winter to prepare them for later frosts.
Light
Canterbury bells flower best when exposed to four to six hours of full sun daily. They can grow in partial sun, but full sun is ideal.
Soil
Canterbury bells require well-drained but moist soil. The soil should be loamy or sandy, and a wide range of pH levels is acceptable, from neutral to alkaline. Still, near-neutral is ideal.
Water
You should water your Canterbury bells regularly during the growing season, but be sure not to overwater. They will die in drought or flood, so maintaining good moisture retention is essential.
Temperature and Humidity
Canterbury bells do best in cool climates. If you live in an especially hot area, provide your plant shade. Cool summer weather is ideal for Canterbury bells, and temperatures over 80°F can harm your plant’s health.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Canterbury bells in spring with a nutrient-balanced fertilizer. Low nitrogen 5-10-5 NPK fertilizer is recommended. Hose the soil after fertilizing, so the fertilizer reaches the plant’s roots. You can mix compost into the ground to increase fertility and improve soil drainage.
Types of Canterbury Bells
Campanula medium var. calycanthema alba: 24 to 36 inches tall; white flowersCampanula medium Bells of Holland: 18 inches tall; pink, purple, or white flowersCampanula medium Champion Pink: 2 feet tall; pink flowersCampanula medium Dwarf Bella Mix: 14 inches tall; blue, lilac, pink, or white flowersCampanula medium Double Melton Mix: 3 feet tall; flowers dark pink, light pink, or purple; double blooms
Pruning
To prune Canterbury bells, remove dead foliage as soon as possible, and cut or pinch flowers as they fade. If you notice your plant becoming too large, you can prune excess flowers, even if they appear healthy. You should lightly prune Canterbury bells throughout the summer.
How to Grow Canterbury Bells From Seeds
Potting and Repotting
You can plant Canterbury bells in regular potting soil without taking many additional measures. However, you may add some sand to the mixture. Choose a pot, tub, or container with drainage holes to ensure the plant doesn’t become overly wet. Repotting is best done in early spring, and given the height of the plant, staking is helpful for extra support.
Overwintering
It’s best to grow Canterbury bells indoors for their first year to be well-prepared for winter. You can do so by using a thick layer of mulch and planting in the spring. Water very lightly during frosts.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Common pests and diseases affecting Canterbury bells include aphids, mites, slugs, and snails. The plant can also develop root rot, powdery mildew, and rust. Fungal diseases, such as rust, become visible as lesions on the leaves and then as open pustules that can spread to surrounding flowers. Pruning and good air circulation can help protect your Canterbury bells from disease.
How to Get Canterbury Bells to Bloom
Canterbury bells bloom bell-shaped, pink, blue, white, or purple flowers in the early spring through midsummer. They produce a sweet fragrance, sometimes thought to smell minty. Deadheading the flowers promotes growth throughout bloom. Attentive care and proper watering practices will help Canterbury bells bloom fully.
Common Problems With Canterbury Bells
While Canterbury bells are relatively easy to grow and aren’t particularly susceptible to pests, they can still suffer from issues common to all bellflowers. Owners should pay attention to discoloration and overcrowded flowers.
Discoloration
Fungal diseases will cause the leaves of your Canterbury bells to become yellow or brown and are difficult to manage once the spread begins. This can help be prevented by avoiding overwatering.
Overcrowding
Canterbury bells produce a large volume of flower spikes, weighing down the stem and causing the plant to collapse. You can help prevent this by staking your plant and pruning as you notice excess growth.
