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Minnesota Gardening

Virginia Bluebells

18 years ago

In my shade garden, I grow virginia bluebells, which are just beautiful in the spring when flowering. However by early summer the blossoms are gone and the leaves are starting to die back, which is natural, but unsightly. I'm thinking that I shouldn't remove the leaves as they are probably helping to regenerate the plant, like daffodils. Am I right about this, and if so, does anyone have any suggestions on how to make this garden a little more appealing to the eyes this time of year? Thanks for your help!

Chris

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Comments (5)

selkie_b
18 years ago
I leave mine and just plant stuff around them. I believe its the same deal as other perennials and if we whack them back we may not get beautiful strong plants next spring.

-Marie
luvmydaisies
18 years ago
I have hosta planted close to my bluebells because they are blooming and done by the time the hosta are leafed out.
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birdwing
18 years ago
I was told that virginia bluebells are not perrenials but strong reseeders. As long as you make sure they get to seed stage and shake them out you don't have to worry about the old plants..
dentaybow
18 years ago
Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) is a true perennial. They are fibrous rooted (not a bulb) and so can be cut back after blooming, unless you want them to set seed.
Jan
felixzippy
Original Author
18 years ago
Everyone, thanks so much for your help. Jan, I'll now feel safe cutting back my plants. The bloom is totally spent and appears to have dried and already popped open. Now I can clean up my garden. Thanks again!

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