Coral Bells (Heuchera) Not Blooming Year 3: Cold Shock or Overfeeding

'Palace Purple' coral bells in a shady border bloomed year 2 but not year 3 despite healthy foliage. Two likely causes:

1. Late Freeze / Harsh Winter

Root damage from cold forces the plant to prioritize leaf production (photosynthesis) over flowering. Energy goes to root repair.

2. Over-Fertilization

High nitrogen = lush leaves, no flowers. Stop fertilizing now.

Recovery Plan

• No fertilizer this year.
• Next spring, apply a bloom booster (high phosphorus) after last frost per label.
• Ensure good drainage—crown rot kills heucheras silently.

If cold shock was the cause, it should bloom normally next year. If overfed, the bloom booster corrects the balance.