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How to Germinate Campanula Medium

Campanula goes by many common names. Often referred to as bellflower, bluebell or Canterbury bells, campanula is an old-fashioned flower found in cottage and other informal gardens throughout many regions. There are perennial, biennial and annual varieties available in white and shades of purple and blue. The bell-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring into summer and autumn, have somewhat different germination needs than most flower seeds. By providing the correct medium and planting requirements, you will have success in germinating campanula for your garden.

Things You'll Need

  • Soil amendments (optional)
  • Seed starter trays
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Instructions

  1. Outdoor Germination

    • 1

      Locate a site for planting the campanula that receives full sunlight in most regions. Very hot regions may have better success if partial shade is provided during the hottest part of the day.

    • 2

      Amend the soil to a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Ordinary garden soil is acceptable, as is a soil with gritty texture. Good drainage is important, since these plants do well in rock gardens.

    • 3

      Sow seeds of campanula directly on the surface of the soil. Sow annuals and perennials in early spring in most regions and in early autumn in warmer climates. Biennial plants may be sown in late spring to early summer. Space seeds five to 10 inches apart for small varieties and 15 to 20 inches for larger varieties.

    • 4

      Provide water during excessively dry periods.

    Indoor Germination

    • 5

      Sow seeds indoors about ten weeks before outdoor transplant date. Transplant in early spring or early autumn except for biennials, which you should transplant in autumn.

    • 6

      Fill trays with a high quality, composted seed starter. Keep in an area away from direct sunlight but with bright light. Locate a space that maintains a temperature of about 65 to 68 degrees.

    • 7

      Sow the seed finely on top of the surface and press gently into the starter. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate.

    • 8

      Place the seed tray in the water reservoir and water from beneath. Keep the tray moist-only at all times. Do not water the soil mix itself and do not allow it to become too wet.

    • 9

      Cover the tray with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid. Remove the lid periodically when germination begins to allow air to circulate and prevent damping off from accumulated moisture.