Growing and Tending to the Beautiful Canterbury Bell Flowers- A Complete Guide

You’re not utilizing your husband correctly

Canterbury bells, also known as “cups and saucers,” are biennial plants that grow quickly, bloom in two years, and then die off. These plants have an upright form with vibrant, fragrant bell-shaped flowers in shades of white to violet. They thrive in the northern United States but struggle in the heat of the southern states. Canterbury bells do best in full sunlight, in nutrient-rich soil that is kept moist. Commonly known as Campanula medium, they belong to the Campanulaceae family and typically grow to be 20-26 inches tall and 12-18 inches wide. They prefer neutral to acidic soil and bloom in the summer months in colors ranging from pink to blue. It is important to provide proper care for Canterbury bells by ensuring they receive enough sunlight, cool temperatures, regular feeding with fertilizer, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture levels to promote healthy growth and blooming.

The image is a creation from The Spruce by Evegniya Vlasova.

Canterbury bells thrive when they receive four to six hours of full sun daily, although they can tolerate partial sun.

To ensure optimal growth, plant Canterbury bells in well-drained yet moist loamy or sandy soil with a near-neutral pH level.

Water your Canterbury bells regularly during the growing season, being careful not to overwater as they are sensitive to both drought and excessive moisture.

These plants thrive in cool climates, so provide shade in hotter environments to keep them healthy. Fertilize with a low nitrogen formula in the spring and mix compost into the soil for added fertility.

There are various types of Canterbury bells, all belonging to the bellflower family and native to southern Europe. Some popular varieties include the ‘Campanula medium’ and ‘Champion Pink,’ among others.

Prune Canterbury bells by removing dead foliage and fading flowers throughout the summer to promote growth.

To propagate Canterbury bells, sow seeds indoors in winter and transplant them to your garden in spring. These biennials take two years to bloom, so many gardeners plant new seeds yearly.

When growing Canterbury bells from seeds, remember to maintain a temperature of 65 to 70°F and transplant seedlings outdoors after the frost has passed.

If planting Canterbury bells in pots, ensure the soil is well-drained with added sand and repot in early spring with staking for support.

To encourage blooming, provide ample sunlight and proper watering practices. Canterbury bells typically bloom from May to July and produce fragrant flowers in various colors.

Common pests and diseases affecting Canterbury bells include aphids, mites, and fungal diseases, which can be treated with early intervention.

To promote more blooms, deadhead flowers regularly and allow some seed pods to mature for reseeding. Keep an eye out for common problems like discoloration and overcrowding.

By following these tips and caring for your Canterbury bells properly, you can enjoy a beautiful display of flowers and a healthy plant for years to come.