Virginia Blue Bells - A Spring Gift

by Bailey Sons – March 21, 2018

The Belle Of The Ball In Fine Gardening

Also commonly known as "Virginia cowslip," Virginia bluebells are woodland perennial plants that begin blooming during their second year. Bluebells feature bright blue flowers shaped like bells on round, grayish stems.

Virginia bluebells reach up to two feet tall at mature height. Plants over three or four years old sometimes produce white or pink flowers rather than the perfect sky blue blooms for which the younger plants are famous. The Borage family members like soils rich in organic materials and perform well in shaded locations. This plant grows best in USDA zones 4-7.

However, they may sometimes grow well  in slightly warmer zones if provided with an adequate amount of protection from the hot sun in soil that has been infused with a significant amount of organic amendments.

Virginia Bluebells

This wildflower blooms profusely during April and May and makes an excellent under-planting for trees and shrubs in casual woodland gardens. Because they are dormant in the summer, other woodland plants such as hosta may be planted in the same area to provide interest for the summer months.

Virginia Bluebells will easily self-seed, creating ongoing colonies that can last for centuries.

They're a favorite perennial of homeowners seeking to develop low-maintenance cottage gardens, mainly if they have shaded areas in their yards. These also thrive in damp, swampy soils and are excellent subjects for naturalizing in wildflower meadows.

Various species of bees, hummingbirds, moths, and butterflies visit the plant when it's in flower, seeking nectar from the blooms and assuring pollination. Companion plantings include other woodland wildflowers such as wild bleeding hearts, lupine, ferns, and anemones. These are also relatively deer-resistant plants, which is essential in woodland plantings because visits from deer are almost guaranteed in these areas.

Virginia Bluebells are native to the forest and meadows of the delicate parts of the North American continent. Entire fields of them all are blooming at once frequently greeted early pioneers on their way west during the settling of the country.

Buy your Virginia Blue Bells today at TN Nursery.

Products from the article

hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hosta - Plantain Lilies Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. It is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. It Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. The blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. They grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  They are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  They come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the plants. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.   Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.
From $16.99
$16.99
Rue Anemone - TN Nursery

Anemone Plant

Anemone Plant: Anemone Quinquefolia When it comes to transforming your garden into a vibrant oasis, few flowers can rival the charm of anemones. These colorful flowers, often called windflowers, come in various shapes and hues, making them perfect for adding visual interest to any landscape. Whether you're looking to attract pollinators or simply enjoy their beauty throughout the seasons, they have something special to offer. Having spent quite some time researching and caring for these delightful blooms myself, I'm eager to share wisdom that will help you understand how to select, plant, and care for them effectively in your garden. Let's dive into the enchanting world of them and explore the different types that can breathe life into your outdoor space! The flowers, commonly known as windflowers, are diverse flowering plants valued for their vibrant blooms and seasonal beauty. They thrive in moist, well-drained ground with full to partial sun exposure and need proper care, including regular watering and protection during harsh winters to flourish in your garden. Planting Guidelines For Anemone Plant  Proper planting techniques set the stage for healthy growth and vibrant blooms, making each step crucial to creating an inviting garden filled with colorful ones. It all begins with soil preparation, which is vital because they thrive in moist, well-drained dirt that is full of organic matter. To achieve this, consider mixing compost into your garden soil-it enhances nutrient content and improves drainage. Think of it as giving your flowers a nutrient-rich bed to lie down and rest in; a comfortable home encourages strong root development. Step-by-Step Planting Process For Anemone Plant  Moving on to proper placement, choosing the right location for yours can significantly influence their growth and bloom potential. Look for spots that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally ensuring they bask in at least four hours of sunlight per day. Sunlight helps them build the energy needed for those lovely flowers we all adore. Now that you've selected a sunny spot, it's time to think about the planting depth and spacing. The corms or tubers should be planted about 3'' deep, with the pointed end facing upwards-this way, they'll know which direction to reach out towards the light. Just as importantly, space them roughly 12 inches apart. This spacing provides adequate air circulation and room for growth, helping prevent diseases that could arise from overcrowding. Once you've put yours in the ground, don't forget about the initial watering! It's crucial to water thoroughly after planting; this step helps settle the soil around the roots and kickstarts their establishment process. Aim for keeping the soil lightly moist afterward-not soggy-because while these flowers appreciate moisture, too much water can lead to rotting. Following these careful planting guidelines will set yours up for success. After planting, it's essential to turn our attention toward ensuring they receive optimal care and nurturing for continued healthy growth. Essential Care Tips Keeping them thriving relies heavily on a well-structured care routine. It's important to ensure they get just the right amount of everything. To start, let's discuss the watering schedule. They thrive in a consistent moisture environment; they require regular watering, especially during weeks when rainfall doesn't exceed one inch. A deep watering once a week is usually sufficient. This approach prevents root rot while helping to establish strong, resilient flowers. Remember, it's crucial not to let them dry out completely, as this can stress the flowers and diminish blooming potential. Temperature and Humidity Now let's shift gears and talk about temperature. They are happiest in ideal daytime temperatures of 58-65°F and cooler nighttime temps of 42-50°F. They don't have extensive humidity needs but flourish best in cooler conditions. If you're gardening in particularly hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can keep these delicate flowers happy and prevent wilting. As someone who loves to garden year-round, I soaked in the beauty of these flowers every season by paying close attention to their environment. Over time, I've learned how much they thrive with just the right care! Fertilization and Soil Quality Another vital component of maintaining healthy ones is ensuring they have access to nutrients through proper fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 blend every four to six weeks during the growing season will promote robust growth and more prolific blooms. Also, ensuring that they are planted in well-drained dirt rich in organic matter. This type of soil helps retain moisture without becoming too compacted or wet. Finding that perfect balance of moisture and nutrients is key to unlocking your flowers full blooming potential. Seasonal Care Considerations Let's not forget about the seasonal changes which also require thoughtful care strategies. During transitioning months-like early spring or late fall-adjusting your approach can make a world of difference. For example, if winters are particularly harsh where you live (think zones 6b or colder), protecting your outdoor potted ones from extreme weather might be necessary. Bringing pots indoors during cold snaps or wrapping them in burlap can shield them from frost damage. Understanding the care involves making small adjustments based on environmental changes, watering regimes, and nutrient access. By observing their growth patterns and adapting your practices accordingly, you can create a thriving garden filled with stunning blooms! With this careful attention to their specific needs, we can now explore ways to nurture these flowers for maximum flowering success. Encouraging Healthy Blooms To promote vibrant and continual blooms, understanding the specific needs of them is crucial. Fertilization plays a significant role in this process. Using a balanced liquid fertilizer bi-monthly during the growing season enables these lovely flowers to access necessary nutrients effectively. This feeding strategy supports lush growth and boosts blooming substantially. When they receive the right balance of nutrients, they can produce abundant flowers, turning your garden into a riot of color. Fertilization Not all fertilizers are created equal; a decent rule of thumb is to choose one that has equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-often listed as 10-10-10. This balanced formula nurtures soil health and helps flowers develop strong roots, which is essential for sturdier stems supporting larger blooms. Applying this fertilizer directly after yours start to emerge in spring sets the stage for healthy growth throughout the blooming season. As you consider fertilization, think about deadheading as another crucial practice to encourage blooming. After yours have flowered, remove spent flowers promptly. This signals to the flowers that it should continue producing blooms rather than diverting energy towards seed formation. By regularly clearing away those faded blossoms, you're inviting more vibrant flowers to take their place. Deadheading and Pruning Pruning is another essential step in maintaining flowers health. Regularly check yours for any dead or unhealthy growth. Removing these parts tidies up the look of your flowers and enables them to focus their energy on producing new flowers instead of repairing damage or supporting dying sections. It's like giving them a fresh start-a little encouragement goes a long way! Lastly, keeping a watchful eye on environmental conditions will further bolster your efforts in promoting healthy blooms. They prefer full sun to partial shade, so ensuring they get enough sunlight can make a significant difference. These needs vary slightly between species but generally range from six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for the best blooming results. It's important to stay attentive; even with careful tending, challenges may arise. Understanding how to address these hurdles will help keep the vitality of your garden. Advantages of Them in Gardens One cannot overlook the stunning visual contribution that they provide. From striking poppy-like blooms to delicate, whimsical snowdrop windflowers, their vibrant colors and diverse forms can transform a mundane garden into a spectacular showcase of nature's artistry. Imagine stepping into your yard and being greeted by a dance of colors, as the reds, blues, and whites of various species catch your eye. These flowers bloom at different times, ensuring that there's always something blossoming throughout the growing season. This continuous flow of color not only enhances visual interest but also creates a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat. Low Maintenance They effortlessly meld beauty with simplicity. As one gardener shared, "They are a joy to have-they require minimal care but offer maximum beauty with their stunning blooms." This sentiment resonates with many who appreciate the opportunity to enjoy beautiful flowers without extensive upkeep. Once established, they grow robustly in various conditions and generally withstand periods of dry weather. With a little initial investment in soil preparation and watering until they settle in, these hardy flowers hardly ask for more than a few waterings during dry spells. The ease of maintenance makes them especially appealing for both novice gardeners and busy individuals looking to beautify their landscapes without dedicating countless hours to upkeep. Ecological Benefits Beyond their aesthetic charm and uncomplicated nature lies another significant advantage: the ecological benefits they bring. They attract pollinators. In fact, studies reveal that gardens flourishing with a variety of flowering plants-anemones included-have seen a 30% increase in pollinator presence compared to those with fewer flowers. By planting them, you're not just enhancing your garden's beauty; you're actively contributing to the local environment and acting as a steward for wildlife. Incorporating anemones into your garden not only adds stunning beauty but also supports local ecosystems. They represent a perfect blend of elegance and functionality for any gardening enthusiast.
From $7.99
From $7.99
hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hosta - Plantain Lilies Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. It is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. It Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. The blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. They grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  They are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  They come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the plants. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.   Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.
From $16.99
$16.99
Rue Anemone - TN Nursery

Anemone Plant

Anemone Plant: Anemone Quinquefolia When it comes to transforming your garden into a vibrant oasis, few flowers can rival the charm of anemones. These colorful flowers, often called windflowers, come in various shapes and hues, making them perfect for adding visual interest to any landscape. Whether you're looking to attract pollinators or simply enjoy their beauty throughout the seasons, they have something special to offer. Having spent quite some time researching and caring for these delightful blooms myself, I'm eager to share wisdom that will help you understand how to select, plant, and care for them effectively in your garden. Let's dive into the enchanting world of them and explore the different types that can breathe life into your outdoor space! The flowers, commonly known as windflowers, are diverse flowering plants valued for their vibrant blooms and seasonal beauty. They thrive in moist, well-drained ground with full to partial sun exposure and need proper care, including regular watering and protection during harsh winters to flourish in your garden. Planting Guidelines For Anemone Plant  Proper planting techniques set the stage for healthy growth and vibrant blooms, making each step crucial to creating an inviting garden filled with colorful ones. It all begins with soil preparation, which is vital because they thrive in moist, well-drained dirt that is full of organic matter. To achieve this, consider mixing compost into your garden soil-it enhances nutrient content and improves drainage. Think of it as giving your flowers a nutrient-rich bed to lie down and rest in; a comfortable home encourages strong root development. Step-by-Step Planting Process For Anemone Plant  Moving on to proper placement, choosing the right location for yours can significantly influence their growth and bloom potential. Look for spots that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally ensuring they bask in at least four hours of sunlight per day. Sunlight helps them build the energy needed for those lovely flowers we all adore. Now that you've selected a sunny spot, it's time to think about the planting depth and spacing. The corms or tubers should be planted about 3'' deep, with the pointed end facing upwards-this way, they'll know which direction to reach out towards the light. Just as importantly, space them roughly 12 inches apart. This spacing provides adequate air circulation and room for growth, helping prevent diseases that could arise from overcrowding. Once you've put yours in the ground, don't forget about the initial watering! It's crucial to water thoroughly after planting; this step helps settle the soil around the roots and kickstarts their establishment process. Aim for keeping the soil lightly moist afterward-not soggy-because while these flowers appreciate moisture, too much water can lead to rotting. Following these careful planting guidelines will set yours up for success. After planting, it's essential to turn our attention toward ensuring they receive optimal care and nurturing for continued healthy growth. Essential Care Tips Keeping them thriving relies heavily on a well-structured care routine. It's important to ensure they get just the right amount of everything. To start, let's discuss the watering schedule. They thrive in a consistent moisture environment; they require regular watering, especially during weeks when rainfall doesn't exceed one inch. A deep watering once a week is usually sufficient. This approach prevents root rot while helping to establish strong, resilient flowers. Remember, it's crucial not to let them dry out completely, as this can stress the flowers and diminish blooming potential. Temperature and Humidity Now let's shift gears and talk about temperature. They are happiest in ideal daytime temperatures of 58-65°F and cooler nighttime temps of 42-50°F. They don't have extensive humidity needs but flourish best in cooler conditions. If you're gardening in particularly hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can keep these delicate flowers happy and prevent wilting. As someone who loves to garden year-round, I soaked in the beauty of these flowers every season by paying close attention to their environment. Over time, I've learned how much they thrive with just the right care! Fertilization and Soil Quality Another vital component of maintaining healthy ones is ensuring they have access to nutrients through proper fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 blend every four to six weeks during the growing season will promote robust growth and more prolific blooms. Also, ensuring that they are planted in well-drained dirt rich in organic matter. This type of soil helps retain moisture without becoming too compacted or wet. Finding that perfect balance of moisture and nutrients is key to unlocking your flowers full blooming potential. Seasonal Care Considerations Let's not forget about the seasonal changes which also require thoughtful care strategies. During transitioning months-like early spring or late fall-adjusting your approach can make a world of difference. For example, if winters are particularly harsh where you live (think zones 6b or colder), protecting your outdoor potted ones from extreme weather might be necessary. Bringing pots indoors during cold snaps or wrapping them in burlap can shield them from frost damage. Understanding the care involves making small adjustments based on environmental changes, watering regimes, and nutrient access. By observing their growth patterns and adapting your practices accordingly, you can create a thriving garden filled with stunning blooms! With this careful attention to their specific needs, we can now explore ways to nurture these flowers for maximum flowering success. Encouraging Healthy Blooms To promote vibrant and continual blooms, understanding the specific needs of them is crucial. Fertilization plays a significant role in this process. Using a balanced liquid fertilizer bi-monthly during the growing season enables these lovely flowers to access necessary nutrients effectively. This feeding strategy supports lush growth and boosts blooming substantially. When they receive the right balance of nutrients, they can produce abundant flowers, turning your garden into a riot of color. Fertilization Not all fertilizers are created equal; a decent rule of thumb is to choose one that has equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-often listed as 10-10-10. This balanced formula nurtures soil health and helps flowers develop strong roots, which is essential for sturdier stems supporting larger blooms. Applying this fertilizer directly after yours start to emerge in spring sets the stage for healthy growth throughout the blooming season. As you consider fertilization, think about deadheading as another crucial practice to encourage blooming. After yours have flowered, remove spent flowers promptly. This signals to the flowers that it should continue producing blooms rather than diverting energy towards seed formation. By regularly clearing away those faded blossoms, you're inviting more vibrant flowers to take their place. Deadheading and Pruning Pruning is another essential step in maintaining flowers health. Regularly check yours for any dead or unhealthy growth. Removing these parts tidies up the look of your flowers and enables them to focus their energy on producing new flowers instead of repairing damage or supporting dying sections. It's like giving them a fresh start-a little encouragement goes a long way! Lastly, keeping a watchful eye on environmental conditions will further bolster your efforts in promoting healthy blooms. They prefer full sun to partial shade, so ensuring they get enough sunlight can make a significant difference. These needs vary slightly between species but generally range from six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for the best blooming results. It's important to stay attentive; even with careful tending, challenges may arise. Understanding how to address these hurdles will help keep the vitality of your garden. Advantages of Them in Gardens One cannot overlook the stunning visual contribution that they provide. From striking poppy-like blooms to delicate, whimsical snowdrop windflowers, their vibrant colors and diverse forms can transform a mundane garden into a spectacular showcase of nature's artistry. Imagine stepping into your yard and being greeted by a dance of colors, as the reds, blues, and whites of various species catch your eye. These flowers bloom at different times, ensuring that there's always something blossoming throughout the growing season. This continuous flow of color not only enhances visual interest but also creates a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat. Low Maintenance They effortlessly meld beauty with simplicity. As one gardener shared, "They are a joy to have-they require minimal care but offer maximum beauty with their stunning blooms." This sentiment resonates with many who appreciate the opportunity to enjoy beautiful flowers without extensive upkeep. Once established, they grow robustly in various conditions and generally withstand periods of dry weather. With a little initial investment in soil preparation and watering until they settle in, these hardy flowers hardly ask for more than a few waterings during dry spells. The ease of maintenance makes them especially appealing for both novice gardeners and busy individuals looking to beautify their landscapes without dedicating countless hours to upkeep. Ecological Benefits Beyond their aesthetic charm and uncomplicated nature lies another significant advantage: the ecological benefits they bring. They attract pollinators. In fact, studies reveal that gardens flourishing with a variety of flowering plants-anemones included-have seen a 30% increase in pollinator presence compared to those with fewer flowers. By planting them, you're not just enhancing your garden's beauty; you're actively contributing to the local environment and acting as a steward for wildlife. Incorporating anemones into your garden not only adds stunning beauty but also supports local ecosystems. They represent a perfect blend of elegance and functionality for any gardening enthusiast.
From $7.99
From $7.99
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