About Purple Bell Vine
Rhodochiton atrosanguineus, commonly known as Purple Bell Vine, is a beautiful and exotic plant that produces stunning bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink and purple. Introduced from Mexico in the 1800s, this vining annual with heart-shaped leaves will cling and transform trellises or arbors from spring through fall. Growing Purple Bell Vine from seed is a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
When to Plant Purple Bell Vine Seeds
It’s safe to start planting Purple Bell Vine seeds 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost.
Where to Plant Purple Bell Vine Seeds
Wait until the danger of frost has passed before transplanting seedlings to the garden. Choose a sunny location in your garden with well-draining soil. Purple Bell Vine prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few hours each day.
How to Plant Purple Bell Vine Seeds
Fill the seed trays or small pots with seed-starting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Moisten the seed-starting mix with water. It should be damp but not waterlogged. Sow the seeds on the soil's surface, pressing them gently into the soil. Purple Bell Vine seeds are small and delicate, so be careful not to bury them too deeply. Mist the soil with water to keep it moist, and cover the seed trays or pots with plastic wrap or a plastic dome to create a mini greenhouse. This will help to maintain humidity and create a warm and moist environment for the seeds to germinate. Place the seed trays or pots in a warm and bright location, such as a sunny windowsill or under a grow light. The temperature should be around 70 to 75°F for optimal germination.
How to Care for Purple Bell Vine
Once the seedlings have emerged, remove the plastic wrap or dome and move the seedlings to a bright and sunny location. If you are using grow lights, adjust them to be 6 to 12 inches above the seedlings. Water the seedlings regularly, but be careful not to overwater them. The soil should be moist but not saturated. If necessary, fertilize the seedlings with a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a week. This will help to provide them with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. After three to four weeks, when the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, transplant them into larger pots, about four to six inches in diameter, filled with potting soil. Be careful not to damage the delicate roots of the seedlings during the transplanting process. Pinch off the tips of the seedlings when they reach a height of two to three inches. This will encourage the seedlings to bush out and become fuller.
