Heuchera, commonly referred to as Coral Bells, is a captivating perennial known for its stunning foliage and dainty bell-like flowers. With a range of leaf colours spanning from deep purples and rich greens to silvery hues, Heuchera adds a pop of colour and texture to your garden year-round.
Planting Calendar
Heucheras do best when planted in spring, summer and autumn.
Prepare
Heuchera can be used in many ways in the garden. Plant them in groups of odd numbers with plants with contrasting foliage colour. They look great when planted along the side of a pathway or in containers on the patio or deck. They brighten up shaded areas of the garden and do well when planted under deciduous trees.
Position
Plant in dappled to partial shade or in full sun, when planted in full choose a position that is protected from the hot midday sun as this may scorch the leaves.
Soil
When planted into the ground Heucheras prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Protecting
Heucheras dislike permanently wet, heavy or very dry soil and deep shade. Strong summer sun can scorch and crinkle the foliage, especially on paler-leaved plants.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Spraying
Heucheras are generally pest free.
Pruning
Heucheras usually come through the winter with old leaves still attached to the base of the plant. Remove tattered leaves, as the plant will soon produce a nice display of fresh foliage. Heucheras should be divided every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor.
Expert Tip
Varieties with lighter coloured leaves, like yellow or soft peach, need more shade to protect them from sun scorch. Varieties with near-black foliage or another saturated colour can handle more sun. Coral bells with especially fuzzy leaves tend to prefer less water and be more heat tolerant than those with shiny leaves. Those are good choices to plant in warmer climates and in places where the soil tends to be a bit drier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best location to plant Heuchera?
Heuchera thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It's best to plant them in a spot where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade.
How often should I water Heuchera?
Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
How do I prune Heuchera?
Heucheras usually come through the winter with old leaves still attached to the base of the plant. Remove tattered leaves, as the plant will soon produce a nice display of fresh foliage. Heucheras should be divided every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor.
How do I protect Heuchera from pests and diseases?
Heuchera is generally resistant to pests, but keep an eye out for vine weevils and aphids. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and use organic insecticidal soap if needed. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
When is the best time to plant Heuchera?
Plant Heuchera in spring or autumn when the weather is mild. This allows the plant to establish roots before the heat of summer or the chill of winter.