How to Care for Bleeding Heart: Tips to Keep this Flower Healthy and Beautiful

Bleeding heart is a beautiful perennial that adds a romantic touch to any garden. Also known as Dicentra, its dainty, heart-shaped flowers dangle from arching stems. Its feminine beauty makes it easy to understand why this plant is a favorite among gardeners. In order to keep your bleeding heart in tip-top shape, it’s important to know how to care for it properly.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that bleeding heart prefers to grow in partial shade, rather than full sun. This is because the plant can become scorched if exposed to too much direct sunlight. It’s best to plant it in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.

Next, it’s important to make sure that your bleeding heart is planted in well-draining soil. The plant is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet, so make sure to avoid planting it in areas that are prone to standing water. A good rule of thumb is to plant your bleeding heart in soil that is rich in organic matter.

When it comes to watering your bleeding heart, it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. A good way to check the moisture level is to stick your finger into the soil. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water your plant.

Bleeding heart also prefers a cool and moist environment, so it’s important to mulch around the plant to help retain moisture. This also helps to protect the roots from extreme temperature fluctuations.

During the growing season, it’s important to fertilize your flower regularly. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer is best, and can be applied every 4-6 weeks. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper application.

Once the blooming period is over, it’s important to cut back the foliage to the ground to encourage new growth. This also helps to prevent disease and pests from overwintering in the dead leaves.

With proper care and attention, this perennial will reward you with beautiful flowers year after year. This delicate and romantic flower is a perfect addition to any garden, and with the right care, it will thrive for many seasons to come.

In summary, Care for your bleeding heart perennial by providing them with partial shade, well-draining soil, consistent moisture, cool and moist environment, regular fertilization and cut back the foliage after blooming period. With proper care, your bleeding heart will reward you with beautiful flowers year after year.

See other flowers on my favorite spring perennials list.