desert bluebell seeds

Can you grow bluebells from seed?

Growing Information

Sown seed may take 9 - 24 months to germinate. From germination to flowering normally takes about five years as the plant first has to grow a bulb. In deciduous woodlands or plantations that cast enough shade to prevent grass growth in summer, the cheapest way to establish Bluebell is from seed.

How do desert bluebells grow?

Site these beauties in a full sun location. They need well-draining soil, either coarse or sandy. Act in late summer or early fall, sprinkling seeds on top of the soil to give them the light they require to grow. Before you start growing desert bluebells, you'll want to know their mature size.

How do you harvest bluebell seeds?

Collecting seed

Collect ripe seed on a dry day, as soon as the seedheads (e.g. capsules or pods) ripen. ...
Pick the seedheads, either singly or on stalks, and lay them out to dry on a greenhouse bench, warm windowsill or in an airing cupboard. ...
If they don't open when dry, gently crush pods and capsules to release the seed.

How do you get seeds from Virginia bluebells?

Collect flower stalks as some of the seed is changing color but before seed is released, place seed in a paper bag for drying. After a few days shake the bag to release the seed. Place seed under moist stratification soon after collecting or sow seed directly where you would like the plants to grow.

What month do you plant bluebells?

Bluebells can be planted in the spring as ready plants, or more economically as bulbs in the Autumn.

Do bluebells grow back every year?

Do bluebells come back every year? As a perennial plant, bluebells flower every year. Bluebell colonies take between 5-7 years so develop and can take some time to recover if damaged.

What do bluebell flowers represent?

In the language of flowers, the bluebell is a symbol of humility, constancy, gratitude and everlasting love. It is said that if you turn a bluebell flower inside-out without tearing it, you will win the one you love, and if you wear a wreath of bluebells you will only be able to speak the truth.

How do you plant California bluebell seeds?

California Bluebell seeds should be started directly outside with optimum germination temperatures of 50 - 55 degrees. Sow the Desert Bluebell wild flower seeds 1/16 inch deep before the last frost of spring. Darkness and shade are two important factors that can help California Bluebell flower seed to germinate.

Can you plant bluebells and snowdrops together?

A nice mixture of aconites and snowdrops growing in perfect harmony. Many people prefer to plant snowdrops, aconites and bluebells in full leaf, i.e." in the green".

Should I remove Spanish bluebells?

If they come in contact with native English bluebells, the Spanish version will cross pollinate and come up the next season as a hybrid plant, stronger than the original parent. With a plant this invasive, it's important to dig out every bit to prevent it from spreading again next year.

Do you have to dry seeds before planting?

Seeds need to properly mature, the seed coating needs to dry and cure, and they need a rest period prior to planting. ... That way you don't have an impermeable seed coat that will not allow water in and will grow foul and rotten before the embryo can germinate.

Do bluebells multiply?

Although the native English bluebell and the larger Spanish bluebell are often grown in gardens, they can multiply and become a nuisance, requiring control.

Where do bluebells grow best?

Bluebells are best planted in shady areas – around trees or underneath shrubs – where the cool conditions intensify the flower colour. Plant the bulbs 7.5cm (3in) deep, 10-15cm (4-6in) apart in autumn in well-prepared soil with lots of added bulky organic matter dug in.

Are Virginia bluebells invasive?

The native range for Virginia bluebells includes most of eastern North America. ... In other areas, Virginia bluebells may be considered invasive. Even in the native range, it is important to be aware of how readily this wildflower self-seeds. It will spread rapidly and form dense clumps and colonies.

Do bluebells like sun or shade?

If we take a cue from their natural habitat it will be no surprise to learn that bluebells thrive in partial shade, under deciduous trees or shrubs and need moist but well-drained soil.

What do you do with dead bluebells?

If you leave them a bit longer the leaves will have time to fatten up the bulbs for next year. The longer you can stand leaving the leaves in place, the better your bluebell flowers will be next year. You can take the dead flower heads off though if you like.

How poisonous are bluebells?

All parts of the bluebell plant contain toxic glycocides that are poisonous to humans, dogs, horses and cattle. If any part of the plant is eaten, it can cause serious stomach upset, and if consumed in large quantities, may be fatal. The bulbs are easily mistaken for spring onions or garlic.

Is it legal to pick bluebells?

Since 1998, native bluebells have been protected by Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (WCA). It is illegal for anyone to collect native bluebells in the wild for the purpose of selling them.

What are pink bluebells called?

Providing masses of colour and flowering with true elegance every spring, Hyacinthoides hispanica 'Queen of Pinks' really is bluebell royalty. If you have a large space to fill, this vigorous pink Spanish Bluebell (possibly more aptly named 'Pinkbell') is a great naturaliser and will be just the ticket.

Are bluebells poisonous to dogs?

Bluebell plants and bulbs contain 'scillarens', chemicals that reduce the heart rate. This can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and disorientation in dogs.