Coral bells (Heuchera spp.) are a beloved choice for gardeners looking to add vibrant color and interesting texture to their landscapes. These low-maintenance perennials are known for their beautiful foliage that comes in shades of purple, green, silver, and bronze, and they can even produce delicate, bell-shaped flowers on tall stems. While coral bells are relatively easy to grow, knowing how to care for them properly will ensure they thrive and look their best year-round.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your coral bells in top shape, from choosing the right location and soil to seasonal care and troubleshooting.
What Are Coral Bells?
Coral bells, scientifically known as Heuchera, are native to North America and are typically grown for their attractive, colorful foliage. While their flowers are small, coral bells’ leaves range from deep burgundy to bright chartreuse, creating a bold, textured look in any garden bed or container.
Coral bells are versatile plants that do well in a variety of settings. Whether you plant them in shade gardens, borders, rock gardens, or containers, they can add beautiful colors and textures to your outdoor spaces. With proper care, these perennials will return year after year, providing lasting beauty.
Choosing the Right Spot for Coral Bells
Coral bells are relatively low-maintenance plants, but selecting the right location is crucial to their success. Consider the following factors when deciding where to plant your coral bells.
1. Light Requirements: Finding the Right Balance of Sun and Shade
Coral bells are known for their vibrant foliage, and the amount of sunlight they receive directly influences their health and color. Understanding their light needs is essential for selecting the right planting spot.
Ideal Light Conditions:
- Partial Shade to Full Shade: Coral bells generally thrive in locations with partial shade to full shade. In these areas, they receive some dappled sunlight, which is gentle enough to prevent leaf scorch and fading.
- Morning Sun, Afternoon Shade: For most varieties of coral bells, the best light exposure is morning sun and afternoon shade. Morning sunlight is softer and less intense, allowing the plants to absorb sunlight without the stress of the harsh midday and afternoon sun. This balance helps maintain vibrant foliage and supports healthy growth.
- Tolerance to Sun in Cooler Climates: Some coral bells varieties can tolerate more sunlight, especially in cooler climates. In regions where summer temperatures aren’t as extreme, coral bells may benefit from more hours of direct sunlight. However, even in these cases, it’s important to avoid full afternoon sun, as prolonged exposure can cause stress to the plant.
Signs of Too Much Sunlight:
- Leaf Scorching: If the leaves begin to look scorched, with brown or crispy edges, it’s likely that the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight, especially in hotter climates.
- Color Fading: Excessive sunlight can cause the vibrant foliage colors of coral bells to fade, diminishing the plant’s visual appeal. Particularly for varieties with darker or more intense colors, too much sun can significantly impact the foliage’s vibrancy.
2. Soil Conditions: Providing Well-Draining, Nutrient-Rich Soil
Soil quality is another critical factor in the health of coral bells. These plants are somewhat particular about their soil conditions, as improper drainage or the wrong pH can lead to stress and disease.
Preferred Soil Type:
- Well-Draining Soil: Coral bells perform best in rich, well-draining soil. The roots of these plants do not like to sit in stagnant water, so it’s essential to choose a location where excess water can drain away easily. In heavy, clay soils that tend to retain water, there is a higher risk of root rot, which can quickly kill the plant.
- Loamy or Sandy Soil: A slightly acidic to neutral loam or sandy soil is ideal. If your garden soil tends to be heavy or compacted, consider amending it with organic matter like compost, which will improve drainage and add nutrients to the soil.
- Slightly Acidic to Neutral pH: Coral bells prefer soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). Soil that is too alkaline or too acidic can affect nutrient availability, leading to poor growth and potential issues with leaf discoloration. Before planting, it may be helpful to test your soil’s pH, and amend it if necessary, by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.
Improving Soil Drainage:
If your soil retains too much water, or if you live in an area with heavy clay soil, consider the following options:
- Add Organic Matter: Compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf litter can help break up compacted soils and improve drainage. These organic materials not only enhance soil texture but also provide essential nutrients that coral bells need for strong growth.
- Raised Beds or Containers: If your soil conditions are particularly poor, you may want to plant coral bells in raised beds or containers. These options allow you to control the soil quality and ensure proper drainage while also giving your plants an elevated, more attractive growing environment.
3. Spacing and Air Circulation: Allowing Room to Grow
Proper spacing between plants is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of coral bells. Crowded plants can lead to poor air circulation, which in turn can create a favorable environment for fungal diseases and other issues.
Importance of Spacing:
- Adequate Spacing: Coral bells should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. This spacing allows for ample airflow around the plant and helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases, which can thrive in damp, stagnant air.
- Mature Size Consideration: Keep in mind that coral bells can spread over time, so plan accordingly for their mature size. Some varieties of coral bells have a more compact growth habit, while others may spread out a bit more. Check the specific requirements for your variety to determine the appropriate spacing.
Benefits of Proper Spacing:
- Good Air Circulation: Adequate spacing helps keep the foliage dry by allowing air to circulate freely around the plants. This is particularly important in preventing fungal infections like powdery mildew or rust, which can spread when moisture is trapped in crowded spaces.
- Healthy Root Growth: Ample space for root expansion is also critical. When plants are too close together, the roots may become crowded, competing for nutrients and water. Proper spacing ensures that each plant has enough room to grow and thrive.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Aside from the health benefits, proper spacing also allows each plant to be seen in its full beauty. Coral bells often feature vibrant foliage in a variety of colors, and when planted with adequate space, these plants create a more striking visual display.
Additional Considerations When Choosing the Right Spot
Microclimates:
Consider the existence of microclimates in your garden when selecting a planting location. Some areas of your yard may receive more shade due to nearby trees or structures, or might be shielded from the wind by fences or walls. Pay attention to how different areas of your garden are affected by sunlight, wind, and temperature fluctuations throughout the day. These microclimates can influence how well coral bells perform, so choose a spot that aligns with their light and soil needs.
Protection from Harsh Winds:
Coral bells have delicate leaves that can be easily damaged by harsh winds. It’s a good idea to plant them in areas that are sheltered from strong winds, which can cause the leaves to shred or become discolored. A slightly protected corner, or near other taller plants or structures, can provide a buffer against wind damage while still offering the necessary light and soil conditions.
Planting Coral Bells: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve chosen the right location, planting coral bells is relatively straightforward. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
1. Prepare the Soil: Set the Foundation for Healthy Growth
Before you plant your coral bells, it’s important to prepare the soil properly. The right soil conditions will make all the difference in helping your plant thrive. Coral bells require soil that is well-draining, nutrient-rich, and slightly acidic to neutral.
Steps to Prepare the Soil:
- Loosen the Soil: Start by loosening the soil in the area where you plan to plant your coral bells. Use a garden fork or spade to break up any compacted soil. This will help the roots spread out easily once the plant is in place.
- Improve Drainage: If your soil is heavy or clay-like, it’s essential to amend it for better drainage. Coral bells don’t like sitting in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot. Compost or well-rotted manure can be added to improve both the texture and fertility of the soil. Mix it in thoroughly to ensure proper drainage and nutrient content.
- Adjust Soil pH (if necessary): Coral bells prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH between 6.0 and 7.0). You can test the soil pH with a simple test kit from a local garden center. If your soil is too alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur or organic matter like peat moss.
Why Preparing the Soil Matters:
Properly prepared soil creates the perfect environment for coral bells’ root systems to grow and establish themselves. Healthy, loose, and well-drained soil allows the roots to easily access nutrients and moisture, which encourages strong, vigorous plant growth.
2. Dig the Hole: Give Your Coral Bells Room to Grow
Once your soil is prepared, the next step is to dig the hole for your coral bells. It’s important to dig the hole to the right size to ensure your plant’s roots have room to spread out comfortably.
Steps for Digging the Hole:
- Measure the Root Ball: The hole you dig should be slightly wider than the root ball of your coral bells but not deeper than the root ball itself. This gives the roots plenty of space to expand without being too deep, which could cause issues with rot.
- Hole Depth: Aim to dig a hole that is the same depth as the root ball of the plant. The crown of the plant (where the leaves meet the roots) should be level with the surrounding soil when planted. Planting too deep can cause the crown to rot, which is a common issue with coral bells.
- Wider Than Deep: While the depth is crucial, it’s just as important to make the hole wide enough so that the roots can spread out easily. This gives the plant room to establish itself in the soil and grow stronger.
Why the Hole Size is Important:
If the hole is too small, the roots will be cramped, which can stunt the growth of the plant. If it’s too deep, the crown could rot, causing the plant to struggle or even die. Getting the hole size just right allows the coral bells to take root and grow vigorously.
3. Place the Plant: Positioning for Success
Now that your hole is ready, it’s time to place the coral bells in their new home. Proper positioning is essential to avoid future problems, such as crown rot.
Steps for Properly Placing the Plant:
- Place the Coral Bells in the Hole: Carefully remove the plant from its container and gently shake off any excess soil around the roots. Place the plant in the hole, making sure that the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) is level with the soil surface.
- Check the Root Position: Before filling in the hole, ensure that the roots are not twisted or overcrowded. Spread them gently outward to encourage even growth. If the roots are too tightly packed, make small cuts in the root ball to encourage better spreading.
- Avoid Planting Too Deep: One of the most common mistakes when planting coral bells is planting them too deep. The crown of the plant should be at or just slightly above the soil level. Planting too deep can suffocate the plant and lead to crown rot, a common issue in coral bells.
Why Proper Placement Matters:
Planting the crown too deep can create a damp environment around the crown, leading to fungal infections or rot. On the other hand, planting it too high can expose the roots to dry conditions and can affect the plant’s stability. Correct placement ensures the coral bells have the best chance for healthy growth.
4. Backfill and Water: Settling In
After positioning the coral bells, it’s time to backfill the hole with soil and water the plant thoroughly. This ensures the roots make good contact with the surrounding soil and provides essential moisture to help them settle into their new environment.
Steps for Backfilling:
- Fill the Hole: Gently fill the hole with the soil you dug out earlier. As you backfill, press the soil lightly to remove any air pockets around the root ball. Be careful not to pack the soil too tightly, as it can restrict root growth.
- Water the Plant: Once the hole is filled, give the coral bells a thorough watering. This helps to settle the soil around the roots and ensures the plant has immediate access to moisture. Make sure to water the plant deeply, ensuring the water reaches the root zone.
- Check for Settling: After watering, check to see if the soil has settled. If the soil level appears to have dropped, add more soil around the plant to make sure the crown is still at the correct level.
Why Backfilling and Watering Properly is Important:
Proper backfilling and watering create a stable environment for the plant’s roots. Watering helps to remove air pockets that might prevent roots from making full contact with the soil, ensuring they can establish themselves more quickly. Without this crucial step, the plant may have trouble adapting to its new home.
5. Mulch: Protect and Preserve
The final step in planting coral bells is to add mulch around the base of the plant. Mulching is essential for maintaining consistent moisture, regulating soil temperature, and preventing weed growth.
Steps for Mulching:
- Apply a Layer of Mulch: Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, covering the soil but keeping it a few inches away from the crown of the plant. Materials like wood chips, shredded bark, or leaf mulch are great options for mulching coral bells.
- Maintain the Mulch Level: Be careful not to pile the mulch too high around the plant, especially near the crown, as this can trap moisture and cause rot. Keep it slightly away from the crown to allow air circulation.
- Water Again: After mulching, give the plant another light watering to settle the mulch into place and help the plant adjust to its new surroundings.
Why Mulching is Essential:
Mulch helps coral bells retain moisture during dry periods, ensuring they don’t dry out. It also keeps the soil temperature stable, which is especially beneficial in fluctuating climates. Additionally, mulch prevents weeds from overtaking the base of the plant, which could compete for nutrients and water.
Watering Coral Bells: Finding the Right Balance
Coral bells require consistent moisture, but they don’t like to be waterlogged. Here’s how to strike the right balance.
1. Frequency of Watering
Water coral bells regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting to help establish the roots. Once established, they can tolerate short dry spells, but they do best with consistent moisture.
2. Amount of Water
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. Water deeply so that moisture reaches the roots, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to avoid leaving the soil soggy.
3. Watering During Drought or High Heat
In periods of extreme heat or drought, increase your watering frequency slightly to prevent stress. If you live in a particularly hot climate, consider misting the leaves during hot afternoons to help them stay cool.
Fertilizing Coral Bells for Optimal Growth
Coral bells aren’t heavy feeders, but occasional fertilization can promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Here’s what you need to know about feeding your coral bells.
1. When to Fertilize
Fertilize coral bells in early spring, just as they start to grow, and again in mid-summer if necessary. Avoid fertilizing in late fall, as this can encourage tender growth that may not survive the winter.
2. Type of Fertilizer
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost to provide nutrients. An all-purpose 10-10-10 fertilizer works well, but you can also opt for organic options, like compost or well-rotted manure, for a gentler, more natural approach.
3. How to Apply
Apply fertilizer around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the leaves and stems. Water after fertilizing to help nutrients reach the roots.
Pruning and Trimming Coral Bells
Regular pruning keeps coral bells looking tidy and promotes healthy growth. Here’s how to maintain your plants throughout the year.
1. Removing Dead Leaves
Coral bells’ leaves will occasionally die back, particularly during the winter months. Remove any dead or damaged leaves in early spring to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s appearance.
2. Trimming Flower Stalks
If your coral bells produce flower stalks and you prefer them purely for their foliage, you can trim the flower stalks once they finish blooming. This helps redirect energy back into the foliage, keeping the plant lush.
3. Rejuvenating Overgrown Plants
Coral bells can become leggy or overgrown after a few years. In early spring or late fall, you can trim them back by about one-third to rejuvenate the plant and encourage fuller growth.
Seasonal Care for Coral Bells
To keep your coral bells looking their best, it’s essential to provide the right care each season. Here’s a breakdown of what they need throughout the year.
Spring
- Remove any dead leaves that accumulated over the winter.
- Fertilize lightly to support new growth.
- Water regularly to help them establish after winter dormancy.
- Check for pests and diseases, treating any issues early.
Summer
- Water consistently, especially during hot weather.
- Monitor for pests, as coral bells can attract aphids and spider mites in the summer months.
- Remove faded flowers and trim any leggy foliage as needed.
Fall
- Cut back dead or diseased foliage to reduce the risk of winter rot.
- Mulch around the base to protect roots from freezing temperatures.
- Avoid fertilizing in late fall, as this can encourage growth that’s vulnerable to frost.
Winter
- Protect with a layer of mulch if you live in a cold climate to insulate roots.
- Avoid excessive watering during winter dormancy, as they don’t need much water while they rest.
- Consider covering with a frost cloth in extremely cold areas for added protection.
Common Problems and How to Solve Them
Like any plant, coral bells can encounter a few issues. Here are some common problems and tips for addressing them.
1. Leaf Scorching
If coral bells receive too much direct sunlight, their leaves may develop scorched or faded spots. To prevent this, relocate the plant to a shadier area or add shade cloth to reduce sun exposure.
2. Root Rot
Coral bells are susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Ensure your plants are in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If you notice yellowing leaves or wilting, check the roots for signs of rot and remove any affected portions.
3. Pest Infestations
Coral bells can sometimes attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to remove pests, and keep the area around the plants clean to prevent infestations.
4. Leggy Growth
If coral bells start to look leggy, they may need pruning or more sunlight. Trim back overgrown areas to encourage denser growth, and make sure the plant receives adequate light.
Propagating Coral Bells: Multiply Your Favorite Plants
If you love your coral bells and want more, propagation is a great way to expand your garden. Here’s a quick guide on how to propagate coral bells through division.
1. When to Divide
The best time to divide coral bells is in early spring or early fall, when the weather is mild, and the plant is not actively blooming.
2. Dig Up the Plant
Carefully dig around the base of the coral bells, lifting the root ball from the soil.
3. Separate the Clumps
Gently separate the root ball into smaller clumps, each with a healthy crown and roots.
4. Replant
Plant each division in a prepared area, water thoroughly, and keep the soil moist until the new plants are established.
Choosing the Right Coral Bells Variety
Coral bells come in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can choose varieties that complement your garden’s design. Here are a few popular options:
- ‘Palace Purple’: Known for its deep purple leaves and compact growth, this variety is perfect for borders.
- ‘Lime Rickey’: With vibrant lime-green foliage, ‘Lime Rickey’ brightens up shaded areas.
- ‘Caramel’: This variety has warm, amber-colored leaves that look stunning in fall gardens.
- ‘Silver Scrolls’: With silvery leaves and dark veins, this variety adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
Final Thoughts
Coral bells are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden, with colorful foliage that can elevate your landscape year-round. By providing the right light, soil, water, and seasonal care, you can enjoy healthy, vibrant plants that look stunning season after season. With a little attention to detail and the right care practices, you’ll be rewarded with coral bells that continue to thrive and enhance your outdoor space. So, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to the world of perennials, coral bells are a plant worth keeping beautiful year after year.