The hardy balloon flower is relatively easy to propagate, both by sowing and by dividing the root ball. You don't have to choose one method, you can use both in parallel and achieve different results.
How can balloon flowers be propagated?
To propagate balloon flowers, you can divide the root balls of plants that are at least four years old in spring or sow the seeds in February or March on well-moistened substrate. Please remember that seeds you collect yourself are not of the same variety.
In July and August, the Chinese bellflower delights the viewer with flowers in different shades of blue, sometimes pink or bright white. The flower color depends a little on the location, because the blue-flowering varieties need a lot of sunlight, while other colors prefer partial shade. By cutting the wilted flowers you can extend the short flowering period a little.
Propagation by sharing
If your plants are at least four or five years old, then you can think about propagating them by division. To do this, dig up the root ball in spring and divide it with a sharp spade. Plant the cuttings in the same or a different location. Put well-rotted compost (€12.00 on Amazon) into the planting hole before reinserting the root parts at the same depth as before.
Propagation by sowing
The seeds of your balloon flowers are not of the same variety, which means that if you sow seeds from your own flowers, you will not necessarily get the plants you expect. The collected seeds should be stored in a dry place until used. If you want a specific flower color or height, then you should buy seeds of the desired balloon flower.
Sow your balloon flowers in seed pots in the greenhouse or on the windowsill from around the end of February. The seeds are only lightly pressed against the soil because they germinate in the light. Gently moisten the surface without washing away the seeds. Keep containers dry and warm, but away from direct sunlight.
The most important things in brief:
- self-collected seeds not pure variety
- Light germinator
- Slightly moisten the substrate and seeds
- Protect seedlings from direct sun, get used to it slowly
- Root division only in older plants
- fertilize the root parts organically when planting
- water well until sprouting
Tip
Repot your balcony plants about every three to four years and use this opportunity to divide the plants.
