Growing verbena in Minnesota can be a rewarding venture for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Known for its vibrant blooms and ability to attract pollinators, verbena can add color and life to your garden or landscaping. However, due to Minnesota’s unique climate, appropriate techniques must be employed to ensure proper growth and thriving plants. This article will guide you through the essential steps to successfully grow verbena in the North Star State.
Verbena is a diverse genus of flowering plants that includes perennial and annual varieties. The most commonly grown types are verbena bonariensis (tall verbena) and verbena rigida (bitter verbena), both known for their clusters of small flowers that create a beautiful display in gardens. While many species are native to warmer regions, there are ways to cultivate them successfully even in the colder climate of Minnesota.
Minnesota experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. The USDA Hardiness Zones for the state range from 3b to 5a, which means choosing the right variety of verbena is crucial. Most verbenas thrive in zones 7-11 but can still be grown as annuals in colder zones or as perennials in microclimates that offer some protection from extreme cold.
When selecting verbena for your Minnesota garden, consider these popular varieties:
Verbena bonariensis: A tall perennial that reaches heights of 3-4 feet; it attracts butterflies and blooms from mid-summer to fall.
Verbena rigida: Often grown as an annual in colder climates, this variety produces bright purple flowers and has a bushy growth habit.
Trailing Verbena (Verbena hybrid): Ideal for hanging baskets or containers, this type features cascading blooms that thrive in sunny locations.
Moss Verbena (Verbena tenuisecta): A hardy option that tolerates heat and drought once established, this variety can also be grown as a perennial in protected areas.
By choosing the right species based on your specific gardening conditions, you can ensure successful growth throughout the growing season.
Verbena thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, evaluate your soil type. If your garden has heavy clay or compacted soil, consider amending it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and nutrient content. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is optimal for most verbenas, so conducting a soil test can help you understand how to adjust your garden’s acidity if necessary.
Choosing the right location is vital for healthy verbena growth. These plants prefer full sun exposure; ideally, they should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In Minnesota’s cooler climate, maximizing sunlight helps encourage blooming and plant vigor.
To further enhance growth potential, consider providing protection from harsh winds or severe cold temperatures during early spring or late fall. Planting near structures such as walls or fences can provide shelter and create a microclimate that supports better growth conditions.
The best time for planting verbena in Minnesota is after the last frost date in spring, typically between mid-May and early June depending on your specific area within the state. For those looking to extend the growing season, starting seeds indoors around six to eight weeks before the last expected frost can give your plants a head start.
While direct sowing seeds outdoors is an option, transplanting seedlings tends to yield better results due to increased control over initial growth conditions. When transplanting small seedlings:
Verbena prefers moderate watering; however, over-watering can lead to root rot. It’s crucial to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. During hot spells, you may need to water more frequently, especially for container-grown plants.
While verbena isn’t particularly demanding regarding fertilization, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting time can promote healthier growth and increased blooming potential. Follow up with a light application every four to six weeks throughout the growing season if you notice slower growth or blooming.
Regular deadheading—removing spent flowers—encourages more blooms throughout the season by redirecting energy back into flower production instead of seed formation. Additionally, pruning back leggy growth can promote bushier plants.
While verbena is relatively pest-resistant, keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids and spider mites. If you observe any infestations:
In Minnesota’s harsh winters, most verbenas are treated as annuals unless they’re planted in microclimates where conditions are milder. For those wishing to attempt perennial success:
If you wish to expand your verbena collection without purchasing new plants every year, consider propagation techniques:
Growing verbena in Minnesota may present challenges due to climate considerations; however, with careful planning, selection of suitable varieties, and attentive care practices, it’s entirely feasible to enjoy these stunning plants within your landscape design. With their remarkable ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies while providing stunning visual appeal throughout summer and fall months, verbena serves as an excellent addition to any Minnesota garden enthusiast’s repertoire. Embrace the beauty of verbena by implementing these strategies and revel in your successful gardening endeavor!