Bleeding Hearts in containers....

[Philo_Lover]

I have a Day Lily and a Bleeding Heart in seperate pots that are about 15 inches in diameter. I live in zone 5 so i was wondering how long can i keep them in there and still see good growth?

[pruninggal]

The day lilly will probably outgrow it's pot in a year or two - they have nice big roots that will outcompete other things. You might have better luck separating them and keeping one or the other in a pot by themselves.

Pruninggal

[Philo_Lover]

Im sorry you misunderstod me...They are both in seperate pots all by them selves.

[Newt]

Hi Philo-lover,
You should put them in the ground at least 6 weeks before the ground freezes so their roots will have time to establish.

Newt

[Daytons]

I think they will both return if you leave them in the pots as they are very hardy plants. However, in subsequent years, they may not bloom as well because their roots will need more room to grow.

[Newt]

Daytons,
I wouldn't take the risk of leaving plants in pots out of the ground in winter in zone 5. I have seen some survive cold winters, but a 15" pot just doesn't seem large enough for a freeze and thaw cycle that could destroy the roots. I've done it in zone 7 with variable results. Some have made it and some haven't.

Newt

[mla2ofus]

I agree with Newt, however you could, and probably should, divide them anyway. They both have ENORMOUS root systems. Put some in the ground and leave some in the pots. That way, if you lose the ones in the pots you'll still have the plants in the ground. :) PS. I just transplanted an old fashion bleeding heart and was still finding it's roots 3 feet out from the plant and they were still over an inch thick! :shock:

[Philo_Lover]

Great thanks...