Pulmonaria, commonly known as lungwort, is a favored perennial that brings early spring interest to garden spaces. This plant is celebrated for its attractive foliage, which often features unique silver spotting or mottling, and its charming, bell-shaped flowers that emerge in shades of pink, blue, or white. Pulmonaria flourishes in shady garden areas, making it a popular choice for woodland settings or beneath trees and shrubs. Its early blooms also provide a valuable nectar source for emerging pollinators.
When and Why to Propagate Pulmonaria
Propagating Pulmonaria is best done in early spring, just after the initial flush of blooms, or in late fall once flowering has concluded. These periods allow the plant to recover before extreme weather conditions set in.
Propagation offers several benefits: it rejuvenates older clumps, manages plant spread, and allows gardeners to fill bare spots or create new plantings without purchasing additional plants. Dividing plants every three to five years also helps maintain robust growth and enhances bloom production. Sharing divisions with other gardening enthusiasts is another common motivation.
Propagating Pulmonaria by Division
Division is the most common and effective method for propagating Pulmonaria, ensuring new plants retain the parent’s characteristics. Begin by selecting a healthy, mature plant established for at least three to five years. The day before dividing, water the plant thoroughly to ensure the root ball is moist, which helps reduce stress.
To initiate division, carefully dig around the entire plant using a garden fork or spade, working outwards from the crown to avoid damaging the root system. Once loosened, gently lift the entire clump from the soil. After lifting, shake off excess soil to expose the roots and identify natural divisions. Pulmonaria has a fibrous root system, making it relatively easy to separate.
Sections can often be pulled apart by hand, or cut through the root ball with a sharp knife or clean spade. Each new division should have a healthy portion of roots and several shoots or leaves. Discard any woody or unhealthy sections. Replant divisions promptly into prepared soil at the same depth they were previously growing, ensuring the crown is not buried. Water newly planted divisions generously to help them establish.
Propagating Pulmonaria from Seed
Propagating Pulmonaria from seed is a viable method, though less common for home gardeners than division. It may also result in variations from the parent plant, as many cultivated varieties are hybrids. This means seeds may not produce plants identical to the original, potentially leading to different flower colors or foliage patterns. If collecting seeds, gather them from dried seed pods.
Pulmonaria seeds often require cold stratification to break dormancy and encourage germination. This is achieved by placing seeds in a moist medium, such as sand or vermiculite, in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerating them for four to eight weeks at 34-40°F (1-4°C). After stratification, sow seeds thinly on the surface of a well-draining seed-starting mix in trays or pots, lightly covering them with soil. Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging, and provide bright, indirect light. Germination can be variable, taking anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Caring for Young Pulmonaria Plants
Newly propagated Pulmonaria plants, whether from division or seed, require specific care for successful establishment. Adequate moisture is important, especially during dry spells, as young plants are still developing their root systems. While they prefer consistently moist soil, avoid soggy conditions, which can lead to root rot. Pulmonaria thrives in partial to full shade; newly planted specimens should be placed in locations protected from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
The ideal soil for young Pulmonaria is organically rich, well-drained, and maintains a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the planting area improves soil structure and fertility. Young plants generally do not require heavy fertilization; a light application of a balanced organic fertilizer or a top dressing of compost in early summer provides sufficient nutrients. Pulmonaria is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, but powdery mildew can occur in overly dry conditions or areas with poor air circulation. Ensuring proper spacing between plants promotes good airflow, contributing to healthier growth.