The Platycodon grandiflorus 'Fairy Snow' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
balloon flower
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Fairy Snow'
The balloon flower (Platycodon Grandiflorus 'Fairy Snow') is a member of the campanulaceae family. It is a perennial plant and blooms from the middle of summer (July) through to early autumn (early to mid-September). It grows to many heights, depending on variety, although the Fairy Snow variety grows to around 18", and produces white, bell shaped blooms. It is a low maintenance charm with a moderate drought tolerance, grows in most any soil type, and is recommended for gardens, beds, borders, or containers. These attractive flowers will bring a bright, snow-white charm to any outdoor space.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 8
Flowers:
White with blue inside veins Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
watering
The balloon flower prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not saturated. Water regularly during active growth, providing 1 to 2 inches of water per week. It can also benefit from a layer of mulch to help keep the soil cool and moist. During the winter months, watering should be reduced to every 1 to 2 weeks; in cooler climates, no additional watering may be necessary.
sunlight
Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Fairy Snow') prefers full sun for most of the day as it is a sun-loving plant. At least 6 hours of sunlight are recommended. However, during the hottest parts of the day, afternoon shade may be beneficial. If the plant is in a container, it is important to turn the container throughout the day to provide exposure to all sides. Good air circulation is also important for this type of plant to help reduce humidity and prevent fungal problems.
pruning
Balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Fairy Snow') is a hardy plant that typically requires very little pruning. However, pruning can enhance the plant’s growth and help maintain its desired shape. The best time to prune is in early spring before new growth begins. Before pruning, be sure to remove any dead, damaged or diseased branches as these should not be encouraged to remain. To promote bushiness, cut back stems by 1-third to 1-half of their current lengths. To encourage a more compact shape, try tip-pruning or lightly shearing the plant. Tip-pruning is done by trimming the top of each stem back to either a 6-inch or 12-inch length. Shearing, done with scissors or hedge shears, removes all of the foliage from the stems and gives the plant a more rounded shape. A light pruning in late summer may also be done to remove any faded or spent flowers and encourage re-bloom and air circulation throughout the foliage. After late summer pruning, be sure to fertilize the Balloon flower to help it recover and produce new growth before winter.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
The Platycodon grandiflorus 'Fairy Snow' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Is it easy to propagate balloon flowers from seeds?
Propagating balloon flowers from seeds is possible but it is not particularly easy. Because the seeds are rather small compared to the size of the flower, it can be hard to collect, sow, and properly cultivate them. Additionally, the seed does not experience a long shelf life, so it is important to sow them immediately after collection. The seeds also have a long germination time which can be a tricky process, and even then, balloon flowers may take up to 2 to 3 years to start blooming once planted.
Is it possible to grow balloon flowers indoors?
Yes, it is possible to grow balloon flowers indoors. Balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus) are herbaceous perennials that can survive in a wide range of temperatures and light conditions, making them suitable for indoor cultivation. While best grown outdoors in zones 4 to 9, they can be grown in bright, indirect light indoors, usually near a south-facing window. Planting the flower in a small pot with well-draining potting soil and watering regularly (but not too often) will help the balloon flower thrive indoors.
Should I remove the faded flowers of balloon flowers?
Yes, you should remove the faded flowers of balloon flowers. Removing the faded flowers encourages the plant to produce more flowers, extends the blooming season, and helps to keep the plant healthy. If you are growing balloon flowers as a cut flower, you may want to consider removing the faded flowers as it may help to extend the season of the flower’s beauty. Additionally, removing faded flowers can help to prevent the spread of disease or pests.
Could balloon flowers survive in a cold climate?
Balloon flowers can survive in a cold climate, but they may not last as robustly as they would in a warmer climate. While they don't require a lot of care, they may need a little extra attention in a cold climate - like protecting them from the cold winter winds with burlap or lightweight row covers. They prefer a light soil, so adding mulch to their environment can also help them stay warm and happy in colder climates.
Is it possible to grow balloon flowers from cuttings?
Yes, it is possible to grow balloon flowers from cuttings. To do so, take a few cuttings from a healthy, mature plant and remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the cutting into a rooting hormone and then insert it into a container filled with moist potting soil. Cover the container with plastic and keep it warm and moist. With a little bit of luck, the cutting will root in about six weeks and you can then transplant the newly rooted cuttings in their own containers.
Are balloon flowers annuals or perennials?
Balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus) are perennials, meaning that they live for more than one growing season. They are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. They are native to China and Japan and are part of the campanulaceae family.
Should I mulch around balloon flowers?
Yes, mulching around balloon flowers is a great way to keep the soil moist and provide additional nutrition. Mulch also helps keep weeds away and can help reduce disease problems. It will also help prevent the plant from drying out, especially in hot weather. Make sure to use organic mulches such as grass clippings or compost, and keep the mulch away from the crown of the plant.
Could balloon flowers be used in a rock garden?
Yes, balloon flowers can be used in a rock garden. These flowers are known for their rosette shaped foliage and star-shaped pink or blue flowers that make them perfect for rock gardens and other harsh growing environments. Plant them in clusters in sunny areas with good drainage to enjoy their blooming beauty, year after year. Low maintenance and drought tolerant, balloon flowers are perfect for bringing color and texture to your rock garden landscape.
