When is the Best Time to Transplant Coral Bells?

With their delicate bells and striking foliage, coral bells (Heuchera) are a beloved staple of gardens across North America While these compact perennials are relatively low-maintenance, transplanting them occasionally helps maintain their vigor. Proper timing is key tosuccess when dividing coral bells. In this article, we’ll explore when and how to transplant coral bells for optimal results

Why Transplant Coral Bells?

• Promotes new growth – Dividing congested clumps stimulates the production of new leaves and flowering stems. This keeps the plant looking fresh

• Controls spread – Coral bells form expanding clumps that can outgrow their space over time Dividing them helps keep their spread in check

• Multiplies your plants – Dividing coral bells gives you new plants for free! The divided sections regenerate into fully rooted plants.

• Improves bloom – Old, congested coral bell clumps tend to bloom less. Dividing them rejuvenates flowering.

• Relieves overcrowding – Dividing overgrown clumps prevents competition between plants for light, nutrients and moisture.

When to Divide Coral Bells

Coral bells can be divided either in early spring or fall. Each season has its pros and cons:

Spring

Pros:

• Cool, moist conditions reduce transplant stress
• Entire growing season for roots to establish before winter
• Blooms and foliage will mature quickly after transplanting

Cons:

• Disturbing emerging growth may reduce blooms for one season
• Divisions must be kept consistently moist until roots recover

Fall

Pros:

• Plants can be divided a few weeks after bloom period ends
• Soil retains summer warmth to aid rooting
• No disruption of active spring growth

Cons:

• Less time for root development before winter
• Requires more attention to watering before the ground freezes
• Delayed maturity and bloom the following growing season

How to Transplant Coral Bells Step-By-Step

Follow these simple steps for transplanting coral bells successfully:

1. Prepare holes for divisions

Dig holes in the new location(s) before dividing the plant. Space holes 12-18 inches apart. Make holes wide enough to easily accommodate the root mass.

2. Water the plant well

A day or two before dividing, water the coral bells plant thoroughly. Well-hydrated plants recover from division with less stress.

3. Dig up the plant

Use a garden fork to loosen the soil around the plant’s roots. Carefully lift the entire plant out of the ground. Knock off excess soil but avoid damaging the roots.

4. Divide the root mass

Gently pull or cut the root mass into smaller clumps of 3-5 vigorous shoots each. Use a sharp knife to divide congested root balls.

5. Plant the divisions

Place each divided clump into a prepared hole at the same depth it was originally growing. Spread roots out evenly.

6. Backfill holes

Refill the holes with soil, pressing gently around the roots to remove air pockets. Water in well.

7. Provide post-transplant care

Water divisions regularly for the first few weeks after transplanting. Apply mulch to conserve moisture. Avoid fertilizing until new growth is established.

Ideal Conditions for Transplanting Coral Bells

To minimize shock, transplant coral bells when conditions closely match the following:

• Soil temperature – Cool spring soil or warm fall soil retains heat to stimulate root growth after transplanting. Avoid summer’s heat.

• Soil moisture – Transplant in moist soil after recent rains or deep watering. Prevent drying out.

• Air temperature – Cool, cloudy spring or fall days are ideal. Avoid hot, sunny weather.

• Time of day – Late afternoon or evening transplants avoid drying midday sun and heat.

Meeting these parameters will help give divided coral bells the best start in their new location. Pay close attention to watering needs for several weeks after transplanting. With proper aftercare, coral bells establish quickly and resume vigorous growth.

What to Expect After Dividing Coral Bells

Don’t be alarmed if your freshly divided coral bells display some shock after being relocated:

• Wilting or drooping leaves – Normal reaction to disturbance. Leaves recover in a few days with watering.

• Fewer blooms – Flowering decrease is temporary. Abundant blooms return within 1-2 growing seasons.

• Smaller new leaves – Maturing foliage will reach normal size.

• Brief slowing of growth – Plants divert energy to root development before new top growth.

• Possible lower vigor the first year – Divisions need time to reach full size and strength.

With proper timing and careful handling, dividing coral bells is a simple, rewarding task. Transplanting reinvigorates overgrown clumps and generates new plants from a single perennial. Just be sure to transplant coral bells at the optimal time of year and provide attentive aftercare. The results are well worth the small effort!