Coral bells, also known as Heuchera spp., are popular garden perennials. They are known for their stunning foliage color, delicate flowers, and year-round interest. Perfect as a massed ground cover or colorful border, Coral bells add bright tropical color to your garden. The best part of growing coral bells from seed is the surprising new colors that emerge for you to add to your collection.
Growing coral bells from seed is an affordable and rewarding option for gardeners. Some of the seed won’t grow true to the parent plant so you never know what you are going to get! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of growing coral bells from seed. We include tips on when and where to plant and how to care for your young heuchera seedlings.
Heuchera ‘Magnum’
Heuchera ‘Master Painter Gaugin’
Heuchera ‘Encore’
Coral bells (Heuchera spp)
Coral bells are native to North America and come in a variety of foliage colors. They thrive in well-drained soil with good drainage and can grow in full sun (dark colors) to partial shade (light colors). Heuchera are a great choice for shade gardens and woodland settings.
They grow to around 12 in/30 cm high and wide, but their flower spikes extend much taller than that, up to around 24 in/ 60 cm. As clumps spread they will get wider, so just lift and divide them if they need thinning out. Division is another easy way to propagate coral bells.
USDA zones 4-9 have the best growing conditions but don’t be afraid to try them if you are in zones 3, 4, 10 or even 11! Coral bells are deer resistant and are tougher than they look. They’ll withstand dry spells and cold snaps once established.
Their foliage colors range from coppery purple to bright lime green. Newer varieties feature a stunning array of leaf colors in gold, caramel and pink. The small flowers are bell shaped and attract bees and hummingbirds.
Where to get coral bells seeds
Obtaining coral bells seeds is relatively easy, and there are several ways to do so:
- Collect seeds from mature plants: If you already have coral bell plants in your garden, you can collect their seeds in late summer or early fall. Look for seed pods that have dried and turned brown on the flower stalk. When you are ready to plant gently break open the pods to reveal the small black or brown seeds inside. They may also need stratification. This is a cold period to break dormancy. If in doubt, place it in a ziploc bag in the fridge for at least a month before planting.
- Buy seeds online: You can also purchase coral bell seeds online. Try reputable seed suppliers who offer a variety of coral bell seed packs. Don’t forget to check their reviews before making a purchase if you haven’t bought from them before.
- Obtain seeds from a parent plant: If you have a friend or neighbor who has a coral bell plant, you can ask them for seeds. This is a great way to get started with a new variety of coral bells or add some diversity to your garden.
- Purchase planting packs: Many nurseries and garden centers sell coral bell seed planting packs. These packs often include different varieties and colors of coral bells, making it easy to give your garden a new look.
Growing coral bells from seed the traditional way
After obtaining your coral bell seeds, the next step is to plant them. Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose the right time: The best time to sow coral bell seeds is in early spring, after the last frost date has passed. In colder climates it’s best to sow the seeds indoors in late winter. In warmer areas you can sow the seeds outdoors in early spring.
- Prepare the soil: If planting indoors, use a quality starter mix that’s specifically formulated for seed germination. If planting outdoors remove weeds and large debris and lightly rake the soil.
- Sow the seeds: If planting directly in the ground, sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them lightly into the soil. If planting in seed trays, fill the trays with soil, sprinkle the seeds on top, and press them lightly into the soil. Sprinkle sparingly! These seeds are tiny.
- Water the seeds: Coral bell seeds need to be kept moist, but not too wet. Water them gently with a spray bottle or misting nozzle to avoid disturbing the tiny seeds. Bottom watering is suitable as well if you have planted your seeds in trays or cells. You can cover your freshly planted seeds with cling wrap or invert a clear container over them to keep them moist.
- Provide the right light and temperature: Coral bell seeds need light to germinate, so make sure they’re exposed to at least 8 hours of light per day. If you are using a grow light, set it to 12 hours. The ideal germination temperature is between 65-70 oF or 18-20 oC.
- Wait for germination: Coral bell seeds usually take 2-4 weeks to germinate. Once they do, you’ll see tiny seedlings emerge from the soil.
Transplanting coral bells seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed about 2-5 leaves, they’re ready for you to transplant them into their final location. Make sure to plant them at the same soil level as they were in their starter trays. Don’t forget to provide them with the appropriate amount of sunlight, moisture, and nutrients. Coral bells seedlings should be spaced about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) apart if you want a ground cover. You can plant them closer together if you are in a hurry, and just thin them out later as they get to their full size.
Heucheras need good drainage and rich soil, so adding organic matter to the planting hole can help provide the best results. Keep an eye on your young coral bells plants, watering them regularly and protecting them from the danger of frost or when the ground freezes.
Growing coral bells from seed the easy way
In late fall, that’s November in the Northern Hemisphere or May in the Southern Hemisphere, clear the soil where you want to plant your heuchera.
Lightly sprinkle the coral bell seeds over the soil and gently pat them down onto the surface.
That’s it. Leave them there all winter. They will get moisture and light, and when conditions are right will germinate in spring. You’ll lose a lot, but there are more tiny little seeds there than you need, so it all works out ok in the end.
Coral bells (Heuchera) care and maintenance
Once established, coral bells are relatively low-maintenance plants. They need regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot climates or humid summers. If you are in a hot climate make sure they get afternoon shade. Coral bells prefer slightly moist soil but can’t tolerate standing water. You can add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth. Coral bells also benefit from a light application of fertilizer in early summer to promote new growth and lots of flower color.
Coral bells make great companions for other shade plants, like hostas, ferns, and ground covers. They also look great in rock gardens, shade gardens or as a woodland flower.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can successfully start your own coral bell plants from seed. With a little patience and care, you can multiply your collection of coral bells. Watch your tiny coral bell seedlings grow into mature plants that will bring a rainbow of colors to your garden. So, why not try growing some coral bells from seed this year and discover the many benefits of these popular garden perennials?
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