How to Grow Verbena in Ohio

Verbena, a hardy and versatile flowering plant, is a favorite among gardeners for its vibrant blooms and long-lasting flowers. Known for attracting butterflies and pollinators, verbena can garden beautifully in Ohio’s varied climate. With the right conditions and care, you can grow this stunning plant successfully. In this article, we will explore the steps to grow verbena in Ohio, including the best planting practices, care tips, and common challenges.

Understanding Verbena

Before delving into the specifics of growing verbena, it’s essential to understand this plant’s characteristics. Verbena is divided into two main categories: annuals and perennials. Annual verbenas typically bloom all summer long until the first frost, while perennial varieties come back year after year, providing you with a continuous display of color.

Types of Verbena:
– Annual Verbena: Known for their vibrant colors such as purple, red, pink, and white. They are often used in flower beds and hanging baskets.
– Perennial Verbena: Includes varieties like Verbena bonariensis, which is taller and attracts butterflies.

Choosing the Right Variety for Ohio

Ohio’s climate varies from humid continental in the north to humid subtropical in the south. When selecting verbena for your garden, consider varieties well-suited for these conditions:

Recommended Varieties

Verbena rigida: A drought-tolerant perennial ideal for sunny spaces.
Verbena bonariensis: This tall perennial attracts pollinators and works well in mixed beds.
Annual Verbena (Verbena hybrids): These are commonly found in nurseries and provide a range of colors.

Starting Verbena from Seeds or Transplants

You have two main options when it comes to starting verbena: seeds or transplants.

Starting from Seeds

Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date (around mid-April in Ohio).
Soil: Use a seed-starting mix that drains well.
Light: Place trays under grow lights or in a sunny window.
Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Transplanting: Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions about 1-2 weeks before transplanting them outdoors.

Using Transplants

If you prefer a head start:
1. Purchase healthy verbena transplants from a local nursery or garden center.
2. Ensure they are disease-free and correctly labeled.

Preparing Your Garden Bed

Choosing the right location is crucial for successful verbena growth.

Location

Sunlight: Verbena thrives in full sun; aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil Type: Opt for well-draining soil; sandy loam is ideal. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain water.

Soil Preparation

Testing pH: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 – 7.0).
Amending Soil: Incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility.

Planting Verbena

Once your seeds are ready or you have purchased transplants:

Planting Time

For transplants, wait until after the last frost—typically mid-May in most areas of Ohio.
If sowing directly outdoors, wait until temperatures consistently stay above 65°F.

Spacing

Space annual verbenas about 12-18 inches apart to allow air circulation.
Perennial varieties should be spaced according to their mature width (generally around 18-24 inches).

Planting Directions

Dig holes slightly larger than the root ball.
Place plants in the hole at the same depth they were growing in their containers.
Fill with soil and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets.

Watering Needs

While verbena is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, it requires regular watering during its initial growth phase:

Frequency: Water deeply once a week if there’s no rainfall during dry spells.
Method: Avoid overhead watering; instead, water at the base of the plants to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing Your Verbena

Although verbena is not a heavy feeder, a little nutrient boost can promote healthy growth.

Fertilization Schedule

Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting time.
Apply an additional feeding when flowering begins (usually late spring).

Organic Options

Consider using organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion or compost tea every few weeks during the growing season.

Pruning and Deadheading

To encourage more blooms throughout the summer:

Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to promote new growth.
Pruning: If plants become leggy or overgrown, lightly prune them back mid-summer.

Pest and Disease Management

While verbena generally resists pests and diseases, some issues can arise:

Common Pests

Aphids can infest new growth; control them with insecticidal soap.
Spider mites thrive in dry conditions; maintain adequate humidity around plants.

Diseases

Fungal diseases like powdery mildew may occur if air circulation is poor; ensure proper spacing between plants.
Root rot can result from overly wet soil; avoid excessive watering.

Winter Care for Perennial Varieties

In Ohio’s cold winters, proper care ensures that your perennial verbenas come back year after year:

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your plants before winter sets in to insulate roots.
Pruning: Cut back dead stems in early spring before new growth begins.

Conclusion

Growing verbena in Ohio can transform your garden into a colorful oasis filled with life and beauty. By understanding its needs—from sunlight requirements to watering schedules—you can cultivate a thriving environment for this delightful flowering plant. Whether you choose annuals or perennials, following these guidelines will help ensure success year after year.

With patience and care, you’ll find that verbena not only enhances your garden aesthetic but also creates habitats for beneficial pollinators—a rewarding addition to any Ohio landscape! Happy gardening!