Exactly what is the problem with creeping bellflower in gardens (Campanula rapunculoides in botanical parlance). Unlike its tamer Campanula garden cousin, this plant can create absolute havoc for unsuspecting gardeners.
If it’s too late and this invader has already taken over your landscape, read on to learn about removing creeping bellflowers.
What is Creeping Bellflower?
It’s said that the Old World fairytale character Rapunzel got her name from creeping bellflower after her father stole a plant from a witch’s magic garden. The witch gets revenge on the father by hiding Rapunzel away in a tower. The plant was trouble then, and it’s trouble now for anyone who gets it in their garden.
Creeping bellflower is a perennial that thrives in moist soil but tolerates nearly any soil and either sun or shade. The plant is easily identified by its heart-shaped leaves and stalks of drooping, bell-shaped blooms of lavender-blue.
It sounds innocent, but an extensive root system turns any attempt at creeping bellflower eradication into a major challenge.
If that’s not enough, creeping bellflower also regenerates by seed. In fact, the plants spread by sending down roots into every nook and cranny of the garden, including secluded shady spots, and produce between 3,000 and 15,000 seeds every year. It’s easy to see how this invasive week can quickly get out of control.
How to Get Rid of Creeping Bellflower
Eradicate creeping bellflower without using toxic chemicals. A sturdy shovel is your best weapon. Dig the plant out, but be sure to dig at least 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm.) deep and several inches (7.5 cm) around the plant. If you leave any tiny chunks of the tuber-like roots, the plant will regrow.
You may be able to get the upper hand by smothering the plant, which is generally possible only if creeping bellflower is limited to small patches. Cover the patch with several layers of newspaper, then top the paper with a generous layer of soil and mulch. Deprived of light, the plant will eventually die.
Pulling is generally ineffective, although you may prevent reseeding. You may get the shallow, thread-like roots, but the plant will quickly rebound and send out new growth from the deeper roots. Mow or deadhead creeping bellflower consistently to prevent reseeding.
If all else fails, creeping bellflower in gardens may warrant careful application of an organic herbicide, but consult your local university extension service for advice on the best environmentally friendly way to eradicate this plant.
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