Growing Coral Bells from Seed: A Comprehensive Guide

Coral bells also known as heuchera, are prized for their ruffled colorful leaves and dainty bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring. These hardy perennials add long-lasting beauty to flower beds, borders, and containers. The good news for gardeners is that coral bells are easily grown from seed.

Starting coral bells from seed allows you to propagate new plants for free. It also gives you a chance to discover exciting new leaf forms and colors. With proper care, seed-grown coral bells mature quickly, some flowering the first year. Follow this complete guide for coral bell seed starting success.

Getting Started with Coral Bells Seeds

The first step is acquiring viable heuchera seeds Here are your options

• Collect seeds from established plants once pods dry on spent flower stems Store in envelopes,

• Purchase seeds of named cultivars from reputable online or mail-order sources.

• Buy seed starter packs from garden centers in spring. Generic mixes provide surprises.

Inspect seeds for any insect damage, mold, or other flaws. Discard any that appear compromised. Store fresh seeds in paper envelopes or jars in a cool, dry place until ready to sow.

Stratifying Seeds for Better Germination

Most heuchera seeds require a period of moist chilling or stratification before they will sprout. This mimics winter conditions, tricking seeds into germinating readily.

To stratify seeds at home:

• Place seeds between damp paper towels and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. Check moisture weekly.

• Or mix seeds with equal parts damp perlite and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks.

After stratification, seeds are ready for sowing indoors. Proper cold treatment improves germination significantly.

When and How to Sow Coral Bell Seeds

With stratified seeds, it’s time to sow. Follow these tips for success:

• Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last expected spring frost.

• Fill sterile containers with seed starting mix. Moisten mix well before planting.

• Sprinkle seeds evenly across the surface. Do not cover them. Light aids germination.

• Gently press seeds into the mix to ensure good contact.

• Mist lightly to settle seeds. Cover trays with plastic to retain moisture.

• Provide bottom heat of 70°F until sprouted if needed.

• Once sprouted, move to bright light like a sunny window.

Follow proper sowing techniques for the best start for your coral bell seeds.

Caring for Young Coral Bell Seedlings

With the right care, coral bell seeds germinate within 14-30 days. Here are tips for robust seedlings:

• Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated. Use plastic domes to retain humidity.

• Provide 14-16 hours of bright light daily. A sunny window, grow lights, or greenhouse are ideal.

• Maintain warm temperatures around 70°F for fast growth.

• Transplant sprouts to larger containers once 2 true leaves emerge. Use well-draining soil.

• Begin fertilizing weekly with half strength liquid fertilizer once established.

• Allow air circulation with a fan to strengthen seedlings.

Proper care results in stocky, vigorous coral bell seedlings ready for transplanting.

Acclimating Seedlings for Planting Outdoors

Once frost danger has passed in spring, it’s time to transition coral bells outside. Follow these hardening off tips:

• Move pots outdoors to filtered sunlight for increasing time periods over 7-10 days.

• Protect from weather extremes and winds initially. Bring plants back indoors overnight.

• Reduce watering during hardening off to slow growth and prepare plants.

• Transplant on a calm, cloudy day to avoid transplant shock.

• Hold off fertilizing for 2-3 weeks until transplants establish.

Hardening off properly fortifies delicate seedlings for a successful transition to the garden.

How to Plant Coral Bells Outdoors

Here are tips for transplanting hardened off coral bells into the garden:

• Prepare planting beds well in advance by mixing in ample compost to enrich soil. Improve drainage if needed.

• Space coral bells 18-24 inches apart in areas receiving morning sun and afternoon shade.

• Dig holes the width of the root ball and the same depth plants were growing in pots.

• Carefully place plants into holes and backfill with surrounding soil, tamping down gently.

• Water transplants thoroughly after planting and as needed until established.

• Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch around plants to retain moisture and limit weeds.

With attentive care, freshly planted coral bells will flourish.

Ongoing Care of Coral Bells Grown from Seed

To keep your homegrown coral bells looking their best, be diligent with care:

• Water thoroughly only when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid soggy soil.

• Prune away damaged foliage in late winter to allow fresh growth.

• Remove spent flower stems after blooming concludes to encourage reblooming.

• Divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years in early spring as needed.

• Apply slow release organic fertilizer once in early spring.

• Keep area around plants clean of weeds and debris.

• Protect from slug and snail damage. Hand pick pests and use organic bait as needed.

• Replenish mulch around plants each spring, maintaining 2-3 inch depth.

With attentive maintenance, your seed-grown coral bells will thrive for years of beauty.

Troubleshooting Problems with Coral Bells

Watch for these potential issues:

• Lack of flowering can indicate too little sun. Move plants or prune back encroaching trees.

• Powdery mildew on leaves calls for improved air circulation. Treat with neem oil.

• Root rot from overwatering requires allowing soil to dry between waterings and improving drainage.

• Chewed foliage may mean applying slug/snail bait or copper tape as barriers.

• Poor growth could signify the need for fertilization and adequate sun exposure.

Catch problems early and take prompt action to restore plant health.

The Rewards of Growing Coral Bells from Seed

Starting coral bells from seed offers many benefits:

• It’s an economical way to gain many new plants. Seeds cost just pennies apiece.

• You can discover exciting new leaf forms, colors, and flower types.

• It allows you to propagate treasured heirloom varieties.

• You gain great satisfaction nurturing plants from seed to garden.

• It enables easily sharing plants with gardening friends.

Take advantage of these rewards by sowing coral bell seeds this season!

Tips for Success Growing Coral Bells from Seed

Follow these tips to get the most enjoyment from seed-grown coral bells:

• Start with high quality seeds from healthy parent plants.

• Provide proper moist chilling stratification to enhance germination.

• Sow seeds very shallowly at the right time indoors.

• Care for seedlings attentively to avoid stresses.

• Harden off transplants fully before planting outdoors.

• Select a site with organic, moist but well-draining soil.

• Mulch plants well and keep them consistently watered.

• Divide plants when they outgrow space to expand your collection.

• Share extras with gardening friends and neighbors.

With sound techniques, you’ll soon have a thriving patch of elegant coral bells to enjoy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about Growing Coral Bells from Seed

New gardeners have many common questions when starting coral bells from seed. Here are helpful answers:

What are some good coral bell varieties to grow from seed?

Top choices include ‘Kimono’, ‘Lipstick’, ‘Obsidian’, and ‘Plum Pudding’ for striking foliage. ‘Firefly’ and ‘Pinstripe’ produce showy flowers.

How long does it take for coral bells grown from seed to bloom?

Most seed-started coral bells flower within 2 years. Some may bloom the first season if planted early enough.

Should you cover coral bell seeds when planting?

No, coral bell seeds require light to germinate and should be pressed into the soil surface but not covered with mix.

What are the optimal soil conditions for growing coral bells?

Heucheras thrive in nutrient-rich, moist but well-draining loamy soil. They also tolerate poorer soils if adequate organic matter is added.

How much sun do coral bells need?

Most do best with morning sun and afternoon shade. At least 4 hours of direct sun maintains best foliage color.

Are coral bells deer resistant?

Yes, coral bells are rarely damaged by deer. Their foliage has a bitter taste that deters browsing.

Should you deadhead coral bell flowers?

Yes, removing spent blooms improves appearance and promotes additional flowering. Cut back stalks to the base after blooming.