Growing Bells of Ireland: Trade Secrets for Successful Seed Germination

Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis) is also known as shellflower. This annual heirloom flower originates from Asia, although it is popular throughout Ireland and many other countries, where it grows well in cool climates. It grows tall spikes of green bell-shaped calyxes. Inside these bells, tiny white and lavender flowers will form. If left on the plant, they will eventually go to seed.

Bells of Ireland are fragrant flowers with a scent often described as fresh and citrusy. Their stalks are popular for both fresh and dried arrangements, and they are a popular plant with flower farmers. Bells can also be grown in containers or all kinds of flower beds and landscapes and are deer-resistant.

There are several ways to grow Bells of Ireland from seed. We usually start our seeds indoors and then transplant them into our flower garden. However, you can also direct sow in the fall. Winter sowing is another method to use. And, of course, you can always let them go to seed naturally, and they will sprout again next spring.

The method you use will depend on your desired results. Letting the plants go to seed naturally is an excellent way to maintain a cottage garden.

The secret to germinating Bells of Ireland seeds is to give them a period of cold and dark followed by light and warmth. 

• The seeds need stratification for successful germination.
• To aid germination, chill the seeds for 2 weeks at 40°F.
• Direct sow outdoors in fall or early spring.
• Don’t cover with soil.
• Light is required for germination.
• Germination temperature - 65-75ºF
• Days to germination: 14-21

When starting Bells of Ireland seeds indoors, use 3" deep containers. These plants develop taproots that can be easily damaged during transplanting. Deep containers allow for deep root growth and less disturbance.

Transplanting should be done while the seedlings are still small. They will have 2 or 3 true leaves. Bells of Ireland have one main taproot. If this gets damaged, it will result in a stunted or dead plant, so transplant carefully for minimal disturbance.

Slowly acclimate the Bells of Ireland seedlings to their outdoor climate. You can harden them off and transplant outdoors before the last spring frost as long as the nighttime temperatures are consistently above 40ºF.

Space plants 10 to 12 inches apart. Dig a hole as deep as the roots and bury the plant to the depth it was already growing.

Once your Bells of Ireland plants are growing in the garden, they don’t need a lot of maintenance. Keep young plants well watered and give them plenty of sunshine. Bells of Ireland are often grown as a spring and early summer flower. They are a hardy annual that likes cool temperatures and dies out in the hot summer. The plant will survive to 10ºF, although the seeds can survive freezing temperatures.

Bells of Ireland love full sun even though they don’t like overly hot weather. Some afternoon shade will help them stay cool in warmer climates.

Grow Bells of Ireland in nutrient-rich soil that holds moisture. These flowers thrive when their taproot can grow deep. We always recommend amending your flowerbed with compost before planting.

Water consistently without allowing the soil to be waterlogged. When soil is dry more than 1 inch deep, it is time to water.

When planted in nutrient-rich soil, Bells of Ireland don’t need additional fertilizer. However, if you have poor soil, you can apply additional fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks to encourage more growth. A side dressing of compost can be applied as well.

Rain and wind can blow over tall stalks of bells. Because they are phototropic, once they are blown over, they will bend towards the light. If you want tall, straight stalks, use netting or some other form of support to keep the plants upright.

A fun fact is that Bells of Ireland will continue to elongate after they’ve been cut. So you may notice them getting taller in your vase.

You can harvest when over half the stalk has little white flowers inside the bells.

Spines grow right below the bells and get bigger as the plant matures. You’ll want to wear gloves to harvest.

The little leaves that stick out from the bells can be cut off. It’s a matter of preference for looks, but these leaves don’t last as long in a vase as the rest of the plant.

Bells of Ireland usually stay fresh for 8-10 days in a vase.

If you are growing Bells of Ireland in a cottage garden, you can let some of the stalks go to seed. The germination rates can vary, but the seeds will self-sow and sprout in spring.

Watch for leaf spot and crown rot during overly wet and rainy times.

Like any plant, aphids and spider mites can burrow into the crevices. To control infestations, use natural pest control methods.

Companion plants that work well with Bells of Ireland are ones that have the same growing conditions. Sweet peas, snapdragons, and stock flowers are all cool-weather flowers.

You can also consider growing flowers that will make beautiful arrangements together because of their color and shape. Some of our favorites to pair with Bells of Ireland are Envy and Polar Bear zinnias, dahlias, and hydrangeas.

When designing your flower garden, you can plan ahead for flowers that you can plant after the Bells of Ireland are finished. Asters, marigolds, and sunflowers are all options for summer planting.

Bells of Ireland are excellent filler flowers for bouquets and gardens. Their size, shape, and color make them a beautiful accent wherever they are. They can be grown from seed indoors or outdoors. Once established, this cool-weather annual is low-maintenance. Start growing this heirloom flower in your garden and enjoy its unique beauty.