BLUEBELLS: GROWS WILD IN DAMP SHADY WOODLANDS

Bluebells actually grow wild in the damp and shady woodlands of the Eastern United States.  The flowers make a lovely subject for gardens in areas where its natural habitat can be approximated.  Bluebells bloom at the same time as daffodils, and makes an excellent companion for them, as well as for some other spring bulbs and wild flowers.

Clusters of pink buds change into nodding clear blue bells, growing to be 15 to 24 inches tall above the light green leaves.  The foliage has disappeared by summer.  Bluebells must have a cool moist spot and soil well enriched with peat moss and leaf mold in order to grow.  These plants do well in woodsy places and damp shady parts of a border, and will grow there in masses.

VARIETIES

Mertensia virginica is the botanical name for these hardy perennials.  There are white and pink forms as well as blue.

HOW AND WHEN TO PLANT

It is best to mix extra leaf mold with the soil.  Best results come from planting between August and frost.  Set the plants about 2 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart, in a broad mass.

CARE AND PROTECTION

Bluebells do best when left alone to establish themselves.  After several years the plants can be divided and reset when the foliage has died down.