Soil Quality

• Coral bells grow best in well-drained beds of moderate quality. Clay soils collect too much moisture but sandy soils drain too quickly. Overly wet soils lead to root rot while dry soils need more frequent watering. If water collects in the soil after rainfall and remains muddy for more than 24 hours, the soil doesn't drain well enough for the coral bells. Planting in a raised bed filled with well-draining soil alleviates drainage concerns in beds with poor soil.
  
  

Amendments

• Amending the bed prior to planting helps improve soil quality and improves the nutrient content of the planting site. A 2- to 3-inch layer of compost worked into the top 10 inches of the bed aids proper moisture retention in sandy soils so they don't dry out as quickly. Adding compost or organic matter can also improve beds with minimal moisture retention issues by providing aeration that prevents soil compaction and allows the excess moisture to drain more quickly.
  
  

Fertilization

• Coral bell plants don't require fertilization, but light applications throughout summer can aid the plant in producing healthy foliage and abundant flowers. An application of a slow-release balanced fertilizer formulated for summer annuals before planting and again in midsummer provides enough nutrients for the season. Alternatively, a soluble fertilizer applied every month from planting until late summer also replenishes the nutrients in the soil. The recommended rates on the fertilizer label work well for the minimal nutrient needs of the plants.
  
  

Moisture

• Moist soils lead to healthy foliage growth and flowering. Coral bells aren't usually drought tolerant so they require regular irrigation to keep the soil moist throughout the 6- to 8-inch root zone of the plants. Some varieties of coral bells survive dry soil better than others, but best flowering and foliage color occurs in moist soils. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture in the soil. An organic mulch, such as wood chips, also improves the soil quality as the mulch decomposes.