Heuchera (Coral Bells)
Heuchera are clumping perennials with very colorful foliage and exquisite spikes of small bell-shaped flowers. Recent breeding efforts have added many new color variations to this genus. All grow well in partial shade and well-drained soil. They tolerate more sun with sufficient moisture. Plants bloom early to mid-summer.
| Growing Temperature: | 60-65° F |
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| Soil pH: | 5.5-6.2 |
| Fertility: | Heuchera are moderate feeders. A controlled release fertilizer may be used. |
| Pests and Diseases: | The primary disease to watch for is Rhizoctonia crown rot. Botrytis is another disease that could become problematic. Botrytis, like Rhizoctonia, often occurs during the overwintering process but is also likely to occur under dense plant canopies. Other observed diseases include Pythium, Phytopthora, powdery mildew, rust and leaf spots. Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas will appear as reddish-brown spots that may cause the leaf to distort, and Xanthomonas takes the appearance of small, brown, angular to circular spots with yellow halos. With good watering practices and adequate air circulation, the occurrence of most diseases can almost be negated. |
| Potting and Timing: | Plant in a well-drained soilless media. |
| Moisture: | Heuchera prefer average moisture levels. They do not tolerate overly wet or overly dry conditions. Under high light intensities, marginal leaf burn may occur if the plants become water stressed.
Do not allow to dry out between waterings. When irrigation is necessary, water them thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. |
| Planting Level: | Plant plug even with the soil surface. |
| PGRs/Pinching: | Remove flowers until plants reach desired size. PGRs are not nessesary if grown under proper conditions and spacing. |
| Lighting: | Provide 30 - 50% shade in the north and 50 - 70% shade in the south. |
