Even though the different species of heather come from very different parts of the world, they all need to be cared for in a similar way. Erica tetralix is native to Europe, as is Irish bell heather (bot. Daboecia cantabrica).

The bell heather is a great addition to the autumn garden

Plant the bell heather

The bell heather can be planted well in normal potting soil or special rhododendron soil, you are welcome to mix both with a little sand. Erica is rarely kept as a houseplant, but with its bell-like flowers it is a beautiful eye-catcher in the garden or on the balcony.

Water and fertilize the bell heather

The Irish bell heather tolerates some waterlogging, because it is also native to bogs. On the other hand, if your bales dry out, this will damage the plant. By the way, it prefers lime-free water.

For other types of heather, allow the soil to dry out a little before watering the plant again. Fertilize only from time to time between April and September. However, the dose should only be small. Fertilization is not necessary in fresh soil.

The bell heath in winter

While Irish bell heather is conditionally hardy, South African bell heather or cap heather is not. Both prefer to overwinter frost-free, at around 5 °C to 10 °C. The bell heather prefers a bright winter quarters, but also tolerates partial shade. Due to its low price, however, the bell heather is rarely overwintered, but rather a new plant is bought in the next season.

The propagation of bell heather

It is true that the bell heather can be propagated both by seeds and by cuttings. But since these plants can be found quite cheaply in the trade, hardly any plant lover makes the effort. If you enjoy it, just give it a try.

The most important care tips:

  • tolerates neither waterlogging nor dry balls
  • Water regularly, daily in a sunny location in summer
  • only fertilize a little
  • not hardy
  • ideal hibernation temperature: approx. 3 °C to 10 °C
  • Propagation by cuttings or seeds

tips

Since the bell heather is not hardy, it should be brought into the apartment in good time before the first night frosts or taken to the winter quarters if you don't want to buy a new plant next time.

Category:

Herbs