How to Grow Bells of Ireland
This annual does best in regions with cool summer climates. For best results, plant it in full sun. You may need to stake it once it’s grown to prevent flopping, even in a sunny location. (Or choose a dwarf variety.) This annual needs well-drained soil that remains evenly moist at all times. It can’t tolerate soggy soil or standing water. In poor soil, you may need to feed bells of Ireland regularly to help it develop taller spikes and larger flowers. Sow seeds directly into the garden a few weeks before your region’s last frost date. In climates with mild winters, sow seeds in the fall. In either climate, simply sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil so they get the light they need to germinate. You can also start the seed indoors using a seedling heat mat and grow light, but this plant forms a tap root that you need to avoid disturbing when you move seedlings out into the garden. Check out our list of the easiest annuals to grow from seed. If you plan to use bells of Ireland in flower arrangements, sow lots of seeds as this plant will not bloom again once it has been cut. Consider leaving some plants with spent flowers in the garden to facilitate reseeding.
