Bleeding Heart Flowers: Complete Growing and Plant Care Guide

Bleeding Heart/Pixabay Image

 

 

The bleeding heart, scientifically known as ‘Lamprocapnos spectabilis’ (formerly ‘Dicentra spectabilis’), is a captivating plant native to Asia. Its name originates from its distinct heart-shaped flowers, which appear to "bleed" a white or red drop. This perennial plant is cherished for its beauty, blooming primarily in the spring, and it comes back every year, making it a favorite among gardeners. However, proper care is essential to maintain its health and ensure regular blooming. Here’s a detailed guide to caring for and propagating this stunning plant.

 

Characteristics and Overview

 

Bleeding heart plants belong to the Papaveraceae family, which also includes poppies. While beautiful, they are toxic to both humans and pets, so caution is needed in households with animals or young children. A fully grown bleeding heart plant can reach heights of 1 to 3 feet and spread out over 2 to 3 feet. Its ideal growing conditions include partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. These plants thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9 and prefer cooler, humid environments with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F.

 

Planting and Initial Care

 

Choosing the Right Spot

The ideal location for planting a bleeding heart is a shaded, protected area that avoids direct, harsh sunlight. Direct sun exposure can cause the plant to go dormant earlier than expected and reduce its blooming time. A woodland garden setting is ideal, as it mimics the plant's natural habitat.

 

Planting the Roots

 

When planting a bleeding heart, place its roots about 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface, ensuring the crown remains just under the soil. If the crown is planted too deeply, it could rot. Use rich, organic soil with excellent drainage. Adding compost before planting can significantly enhance soil quality and provide the plant with the necessary nutrients. Once planted, water regularly but ensure the soil remains moist, not soggy.

 

Watering and Soil Conditions

 

Bleeding hearts prefer soil that retains moisture but drains well, as they are sensitive to both overwatering and drought. The top inch of the soil should be kept moist throughout the growing season. Even during summer dormancy, continue to water the plant lightly to maintain hydration, but avoid waterlogging the soil. Proper soil moisture prevents root rot, a common issue with bleeding hearts.

 

Fertilization and Mulching

 

Bleeding heart plants generally do not require heavy fertilization, especially if they are planted in organically rich soil. If your soil is lacking in nutrients, applying a slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring will suffice. Additionally, mulching with organic materials, such as leaf mold, helps to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. This mimics the plant’s natural environment, promoting healthier growth.

 

Pruning and Maintenance

 

Unlike some flowering plants, bleeding hearts don’t require aggressive pruning. However, as the plant enters dormancy, its foliage may turn yellow or brown. At this stage, you can trim back the unsightly leaves to tidy up your garden. If you prefer to allow the plant to reseed, avoid deadheading the flowers.

 

Propagating Bleeding Hearts

 

Propagation can be done through several methods, including seeds, clump division, and stem cuttings. Division is the simplest and most common method, particularly for rejuvenating older plants.

 

Propagation by Division

 

To propagate through division, wait until after the plant has finished blooming. Using a shovel, dig around the plant’s crown and lift the root ball from the soil. You can then divide the root ball using a sharp, sterilized knife, ensuring that each section has at least one growth bud. Replant both the original and the divided sections in well-drained soil, and water thoroughly.

 

Propagation by Stem Cuttings

 

Bleeding hearts can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 3- to 5-inch cutting from a healthy plant in the spring or early summer, dip the cut end into a rooting hormone, and place it in a container filled with a soilless potting mix. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to maintain humidity, and keep the container in indirect light. Once new growth appears, the cutting can be transplanted outdoors.

 

Growing From Seed

 

Though not as common as propagation by division, bleeding hearts can be grown from seed. If starting indoors, place the seeds in a pot and refrigerate them for six to eight weeks to simulate winter conditions. This cold treatment will trigger germination when the pot is returned to warmer, sunnier conditions. Bleeding hearts also self-seed in gardens, though they are not invasive.

 

Pests and Diseases

 

Several pests and diseases can affect bleeding heart plants, including aphids, scale, slugs, and snails. Aphids and scale insects can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil, while slugs and snails can be removed by hand. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot can also afflict bleeding hearts. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overhead watering and ensure the plants have proper air circulation. If a plant becomes infected, remove the diseased parts and apply a fungicide.

 

Overwintering and Dormancy

 

Bleeding heart plants enter a natural dormancy phase as the weather cools. The foliage dies back, but the roots remain alive underground, storing energy for the next growing season. Before the first frost, cut the stems back to 1 or 2 inches from the ground and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to protect the roots. This mulch layer helps retain moisture and insulates the plant from freezing temperatures. Remove the mulch in the spring as the soil begins to thaw.

 

Common Growing Issues

 

While bleeding hearts are generally low-maintenance, some common issues can arise when growing conditions are not optimal. For example, yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, too much sun, or an alkaline soil pH. To remedy this, adjust your watering routine, provide additional shade, and test your soil’s pH to ensure it’s slightly acidic or neutral.

 

Diseases like verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt, and root rot can cause the plant to wilt and die rapidly. These fungal infections are often fatal, so infected plants should be removed and disposed of to prevent the spread of the disease.

 

Encouraging Blooms

 

Bleeding hearts are primarily spring-blooming plants, but their blooming period can extend into early summer in cooler climates. To encourage a second bloom, you can cut the plant down to 1 inch above ground after the first flowering. Keeping the plant in partial to full shade and ensuring the soil remains moist will also promote a longer blooming period.

 

In summary, the bleeding heart is a hardy yet elegant perennial that, with the right care, can bring lasting beauty to your garden year after year. From selecting the ideal planting location to protecting the plant from pests and diseases, a little attention to detail goes a long way in ensuring the health and vibrancy of this charming plant.