When to Plant Bleeding Hearts

Bleeding hearts, also known as Dicentra spectabilis, are a beautiful addition to any garden. With their unique heart-shaped flowers and delicate foliage, they add a touch of whimsy and romance to any landscape. However, before planting these gorgeous perennials, it is important to understand when the best time to plant them is. Here, we will explore when to plant bleeding hearts.

Planting Time

The best time to plant bleeding hearts is in the early spring or fall. In the spring, it is best to plant them after any chance of frost has passed, ensuring that the soil is no longer frozen. In the fall, it is best to plant about six weeks before the first expected frost. This will give the bleeding hearts enough time to establish their roots before the ground becomes too cold.

Soil Preparation

Before planting your bleeding hearts, it is important to prepare the soil. They prefer moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, add some lime to increase the pH. If it is too alkaline, add some sulfur to lower it. Additionally, bleeding hearts prefer soil that is rich in organic matter, so be sure to add some compost or aged manure to the soil prior to planting.

Location

Bleeding hearts thrive in partial shade to full shade. They prefer a location where they will receive morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Be sure to select a location where the soil is well-drained, as they do not do well in areas with standing water. Additionally, bleeding hearts can grow up to three feet in height, so plan accordingly when selecting a planting location.

Planting Technique

When planting bleeding hearts, it is important to dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Gently spread the roots out and place the plant in the hole, making sure that the crown of the plant is level with the soil. Fill in the hole with soil and tamp it down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant well.

Care

Once your bleeding hearts are planted, they will require minimal care. Be sure to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Additionally, bleeding hearts benefit from a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and control weeds. During the growing season, you can feed your bleeding hearts with a balanced fertilizer every six to eight weeks to encourage healthy growth and blooming.

In conclusion, bleeding hearts are a beautiful perennial that can add a touch of romance to any garden. By planting them in the early spring or fall in a location with partial to full shade and well-drained, rich soil, and taking care to prepare the soil and plant them correctly, they can thrive with minimal care. Keep this in mind when planning your next garden project!