Sowing & Growing

Choose to sow either in late winter/late spring or late summer/autumn. Opt for September to October, preparing before the coldest period of the year, or select February to April and transplant after the risk of frost has passed.

Sow the seeds onto cells or pots filled with high-quality seed compost. Scatter finely over the surface, gently pressing into the compost without covering, as light aids seed germination. Utilize a propagator or cover with a plastic lid, placing it in a warm environment, ideally at 18 to 20°C. Water from the tray’s base, ensuring the compost stays consistently moist but not overly wet. Germination typically occurs within 14 to 28 days. Once germination begins, gradually introduce air to prevent damping off.

Once the seedlings develop their first pair of true leaves and are large enough to handle, prick each seedling into 7.5cm (3in) pots for further growth. Position them in an area with diffused light. Acclimatize gradually to outdoor conditions over 10 to 15 days before planting in well-drained soil after the frost risk has passed. Space the plants 30cm (12in) apart. Ideally, choose a location with partial shade or sun, in fertile, neutral to alkaline, and moist yet well-drained soil.

Protect delicate foliage from slugs and regularly deadhead the flowers. Bellflowers benefit from some relief from intense sun and heat; in a dry summer, apply a generous 5 to 7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost around the base in spring and maintain adequate watering. In exposed areas, use bamboo canes or brushwood for support before the flowers emerge. Deadhead regularly for prolonged flowering. C. latifolia can self-seed but is not a nuisance, and any unwanted growth can be easily controlled after blooming, as the seeds set long after the blossoms have faded.