Tips for Growing Mountain Bells

The sunny warm welcome of bright yellow daffodils is one of the first signs of spring. Paired with pastel tulips and purple crocus, they make for a garden that is fresh and cheerful. After the blooms have faded, one can look forward to a lively burst of yellow, purple, rose, and white blossoms atop the foot tall stems of mountain bells.

Mountain bells are a member of the Allium family, which also includes onions, chives, and garlic. According to the International Society for Horticultural Science, "there are more than 500 species of Allium" and seeds of 467 types have been included in the National Gene Bank. The Allium family has long been appreciated for its culinary contributions to kitchens around the world, and it is also sometimes used for medicinal purposes.

The flowering varieties of the Allium genus have been popular with gardeners since the middle of the 19^th century. Mountain bells are hardy and easy to grow. They are naturally deer and rodent resistant. Even though they are related to the onion, their scent is sweet and pleasant. Planning ahead for color, you'll want to plant these bulbs in the fall in any garden, zones 3-8.

The bulbs should be planted in an area that gets full sun and is well drained. If left to sit in water, the bulbs may rot and become diseased. If the area that you would like to plant in is not well drained, you can add peat moss, sand, or organic material to amend the soil prior to planting.

Dig a hole 6-8" deep and place the bulbs in the hole with the point facing up. Bulbs should be spaced about 6" apart. Cover with dirt and water the area well so that roots and sprouts can get started before winter. In the spring, you'll have a burst of beautiful blooms that can be cut and used in floral arrangements or for drying. After blooms have faded, let the foliage grow as it will help nourish the plant for next year's growth. In mid-summer the remaining foliage will die off and can then be trimmed back.

Mountain bells add an explosion of color to your garden to fill the gap between early blooming bulbs and annuals, or early summer blooming perennials. The bulbs will multiply, and can be left to naturalize in your landscape, adding more color every year. The radiant burst of blooms along with the sweet smell of spring is sure to brighten the spirits of anyone who wanders through your garden full of mountain bells.