Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as tall verbena or purpletop vervain, is a beautiful and versatile flowering plant that attracts butterflies and bees. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow Verbena bonariensis:
Sunlight and soil: Verbena bonariensis thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining and moderately fertile. Verbena bonariensis is tolerant of various soil types, but it prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0-7.5.
Planting time: Verbena bonariensis can be started from seeds or transplants. If starting from seeds, sow them directly in the garden in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. If using transplants, plant them in spring or early summer.
Planting seeds: Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and loosening it to a depth of about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them into the soil, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Planting transplants: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the transplant. Place the plant in the hole, making sure it is at the same depth as it was in the container. Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil around the roots.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination and establishment period. Once established, Verbena bonariensis is moderately drought-tolerant and can tolerate some dryness between waterings. Water deeply when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded bark, around the base of the plants. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Leave a gap between the mulch and the stems to prevent moisture buildup and potential rot.
Support: Verbena bonariensis can grow quite tall, reaching heights of 3-6 feet (90-180 cm). As they grow, the slender stems may require support to prevent them from bending or breaking. Install stakes or use plant supports early in the growing season to provide support.
Fertilization: Verbena bonariensis is not a heavy feeder and generally doesn't require excessive fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a general-purpose granular fertilizer in early spring to provide some nutrients. Follow the package instructions for the recommended amount.
Deadheading: Verbena bonariensis produces clusters of small, purple flowers on long stalks. Deadheading (removing faded flowers) can help promote continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding, as this plant can be prolific in reseeding.
Pest and disease control: Verbena bonariensis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common issues such as aphids or powdery mildew. If necessary, treat any infestations or infections promptly using appropriate methods.
Verbena bonariensis is a self-seeding plant, meaning it may reseed and produce new plants in subsequent years. This can be a desirable trait if you want it to naturalize in your garden, but you can also remove the seed heads to control reseeding. Enjoy the beautiful, airy clusters of flowers and the visits from pollinators that Verbena bonariensis attracts.
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