How to Care For Bloodroot
Bloodroot grows best in shade or part shade and moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. It is a common wildflower in deciduous woodlands where it thrives in the bright spring light and then grows well in the summer shade produced by foliage overhead. Loose, moist soil that is brimming with nutrients is also key to good bloodroot growth. Improve soil structure and fertility by incorporating a 2-inch-thick layer of compost in the garden bed before planting. Top-dress the area around bloodroot with an annual layer of compost. Look for bloodroot in a local garden center that specializes in native plants. Mail-order bloodroot is often sold and shipped as dormant rhizomes, which should be planted in early spring. Dig a shallow trench about 1 inch deep. Plant the rhizome horizontally about 12 inches apart. Cover them with loose soil and water well. After planting, mulch rhizomes and plants with about an inch of chopped leaves or compost.
