Verbena plants are a popular choice for gardeners due to their beautiful flowers and easy maintenance. While they are relatively easy to grow, harvesting them can be a bit tricky, as it requires proper timing and technique. In this article, we will discuss the optimal time and technique for verbena plant harvesting.
The best time to harvest verbena plants is when they are in full bloom. This is typically in the late summer or early fall months. You will want to wait until the flowers have fully opened and are at their peak before harvesting them.
It is important to note that if you harvest the flowers too early, they may not have developed their full flavor or fragrance. On the other hand, if you wait too long, the flowers may start to wilt and lose their potency.
When harvesting verbena plants, it is important to be gentle and precise. Follow these steps for optimal results:
Choose a dry day: It is best to harvest verbena plants on a dry day when there is no risk of rain. Wet flowers can quickly turn moldy, which can ruin your entire harvest.
Use clean tools: Make sure your gardening shears or scissors are clean and sharp before starting your harvest. This will help prevent damage to the plant and ensure a clean cut.
Cut just below the flower head: Using your shears or scissors, snip off the flower head just below the base. Try to avoid cutting any leaves or stems, as this can damage the plant.
Store in a cool, dry place: Once you have harvested your verbena flowers, store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to use them.
There are many uses for harvested verbena plants, including:
Q: Can I harvest verbena plants more than once in a season?
A: Yes, you can harvest verbena plants multiple times in a season. However, make sure to wait until the flowers have fully bloomed before harvesting again.
Q: Do I need to remove the entire flower head when harvesting verbena plants?
A: No, you only need to remove the flower head when harvesting verbena plants. Leave the leaves and stems intact.
Q: Can I harvest verbena plants when they are wet?
A: It is not recommended to harvest verbena plants when they are wet, as this can cause them to mold quickly.
Q: How should I store harvested verbena plants?
A: Store harvested verbena plants in a cool, dry place until you are ready to use them.
Harvesting verbena plants can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. By waiting until the flowers have fully bloomed and using clean tools to make precise cuts, you can ensure a successful harvest. Use your harvested verbena flowers in a variety of ways to enjoy their fragrant and therapeutic benefits all year long.