key growing information

How to Grow Bells of Ireland

How to grow bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis) from seed: chilling seed, direct sowing or starting in pots, staking, sun and soil, and cutting for fresh or dried use.
By Hensley’s Seed Co.

Bells of Ireland - Key Growing Information

Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis) stalks.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

Allow 12–21 days at 65–68°F (18–20°C). Germination improves if seed is chilled at 35–40°F (1.7–4.4°C) for 1–2 weeks first.

SOWING:

Tall plants may need staking.
Direct seed (recommended): Plant in early spring once the soil is 50–60°F (10–16°C). Leave the seed uncovered, because it needs light to sprout.
Transplant: Start seed 6–8 weeks before planting out in individual 3" containers or cell packs; the plants form taproots and dislike being moved. Water from below or with a mist so seed isn't buried. Harden off and plant outdoors once frost is no longer a danger.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Full sun to partial shade.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Any soil with good drainage.

PLANT SPACING:

10–12" apart.

HARDINESS ZONES:

Grown as an annual.

HARVEST:

Cutting often encourages side shoots to flower.
Fresh: Cut when about half the bells along the stem are open and still green.
Dried: Wait until the bells feel firm.

USES:

Fresh and dried arrangements, the back of beds, borders and cottage gardens.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Moluccella laevis

Source and attribution

Migrated library resource. Original named people, organizations, research, and factual provenance are retained.