Dharaseeds
Verbena - Tall
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Verbena - Tall: A Vibrant, Hardy Addition to Your Garden
Verbena - Tall is a striking, hardy perennial known for its tall spikes of colorful flowers and its ability to thrive in a variety of climates. With its upright growth habit and abundant blooms, this variety of verbena adds both height and vibrant color to any garden. Perfect for borders, containers, or as part of a mixed flower bed, Verbena - Tall is loved for its low-maintenance care and long blooming period.
Key Benefits
- Colorful Blooms: Produces clusters of bright, colorful flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Hardy and Resilient: Tolerates a range of growing conditions, making it perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period: Blooms from late spring to early fall, providing continuous color throughout the growing season.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand dry conditions, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Upright, bushy plants with long, slender stems topped with vibrant flower clusters in shades of purple, pink, red, or white.
- Growth Habit: Tall, reaching up to 2-3 feet in height, making it ideal for background planting or as a cut flower.
- Size: Flowers bloom in dense clusters, typically 2-4 inches in diameter.
- Bloom Time: Blooms from late spring to early fall, offering long-lasting color.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Best Planting Time: Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in early fall for a late-season display.
- Ideal Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C–29°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Sow seeds about 1/8 inch deep in well-drained soil.
- Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for their bushy growth habit.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, although it can tolerate partial shade in hotter climates.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Water regularly, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Drought-Tolerant: Once established, Verbena - Tall is drought-resistant and can tolerate periods of dry weather.
Fertilization
- Moderate Feeding: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth and blooming. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Weeding and Mulching
- Weeding: Keep the area free of weeds, which can compete with Verbena for nutrients.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Generally resistant to pests, but can occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Use organic insecticidal soap if needed.
- Diseases: Verbena - Tall is relatively disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.
Harvesting
- Time to Maturity: Verbena - Tall reaches full bloom in about 60-90 days from planting, depending on growing conditions.
- Cutting for Arrangements: For fresh flower arrangements, cut the stems when the flowers are fully open. This will encourage additional blooms and extend the flowering period.
Storage
- Cut Flowers: Store cut Verbena flowers in a cool, water-filled vase. Change the water every few days to prolong freshness.
- Seed Saving: Allow the flowers to dry on the plant and collect seeds for future planting.
Culinary Uses
- Edible Flowers: While primarily grown for ornamental purposes, Verbena flowers can be used in culinary applications, such as garnishing salads, desserts, or beverages.
- Herbal Teas: Some varieties of Verbena can be used to make herbal teas, offering a subtle lemon flavor.
Conclusion
Verbena - Tall is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that brings vibrant, long-lasting color to any garden. Its hardiness, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels. Whether used in flower beds, containers, or as part of a mixed garden, Verbena - Tall will enhance the beauty of your outdoor space and provide a valuable source of nectar for beneficial insects.