Watering Coral Bells

Coral Bells have medium water requirements, which means established plants require weekly waterings depending on the conditions. You can normally tell when a Coral Bells needs water by feeling the soil. If the top 2 to 3 inches of the soil is dry, then it is time to water.

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Coral Bells have a shallow root system, so these plants can quickly dry out when planted in sunnier areas. As long as you make it a point to check on the plant and the soil and keep up with watering, the plant will grow and thrive. 

How To Tell If Coral Bells Needs Watered

Coral Bells prefer consistent watering and maintaining slightly damp soil. Signs that a Coral Bells is too dry include wilting or drooping leaves. The plant may recover if you water as soon as you notice signs of dehydration. Do not overcompensate by giving a dry plant extra water; just make sure the soil is saturated. 

How Often To Water Coral Bells

Coral Bells need daily watering for the first week after they are planted. For the remainder of that first growing season, they will need consistent water, and every few days is typically enough.

Plants that are established are somewhat drought tolerant, and weekly watering is enough. Remember that Coral Bells may not need water during rainy times, or they may need more water during a drought. Coral Bells are native to North America, so pay attention to the weather and feel the soil to determine the best time to water.

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Can you overwater Coral Bells? If the plant has received too much water, you can expect the leaves to turn yellow. Let the soil dry out before watering again. 

Coral Bells are excellent container plants because of the colorful foliage, but plants in pots typically dry out more quickly. Potted Coral Bells should be watered when the top few inches of the soil feel dry and generally need water every couple of days. Warm weather can cause the soil to dry out more quickly, so keep a close eye on your Coral Bells during the peak heat of summer.

Best Time To Water Coral Bells

Water Coral Bells as necessary early in the day during the spring and summer so the roots and plant will have time to soak up the water before the temperature starts to climb. You can water later in the day if the leaves are drooping or the plant is showing signs of dehydration.

Coral Bells are cold-hardy and can survive the winter in most areas. The plant does not need water during the winter in cold regions. Coral Bells may need water in areas that experience mild winter; however, dormant plants will not need much water.

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How to Water Coral Bells?

Step 1 - Feel the top 2 to 3 inches of the soil.

Water if the soil feels dry. Do not water if the soil is wet.

Step 2 - Drench the soil.

Thoroughly water the plant to make sure the entire root system is wet.

Step 3 - Water the soil around the plant.

The foliage is susceptible to fungal infections and bacterial diseases if the leaves are wet, and the plant’s preference for partial shade can help promote these issues. Watering the soil and keeping the leaves dry can reduce the risk. 

Step 4 - Monitor the plant during dry spells.

Coral Bells have shallow root systems, so the plants are prone to drying out during sweltering weather. Routinely check on the plant to prevent it from drying out during times of drought.

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Coral Bells Watering Tips

  • Water Coral Bells when the top 2 to 3 inches of the soil is dry.
  • Drench the soil around the plant, but keep the foliage dry.
  • Water during the morning before the day is hot.
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

 

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 Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 15-12-2021