Trailing Verbena Care: Tips For Growing Trailing Verbenas

The arrival of spring and warmer weather often marks a time to begin tidying up our homes and beautify flower beds. For many homeowners, this means the planting of flowering annuals such as pansies. While traditional favorites are essential, the addition of plants like trailing verbena can add much needed dynamic to green spaces, containers, and hanging baskets. Learning more about trailing verbena plants will help gardeners better determine whether or not this flowering annual is an ideal candidate for their flower border.

What is a Trailing Verbena? 

Several types of verbena flower exist, all of which vary greatly in terms of adaptability to climate and weather conditions. Trailing verbena flowers are a popular bedding annual that thrives in regions where temperatures remain relatively mild. Though the plant may not be able to be grown throughout the entirety of summer in some regions, those who experience hotter temperatures can enjoy the plant from late winter and into spring. Coming in a wide range of colors, plants produce a showy profusion of clustered blooms that are sure to impress guests and passers-by. 

Growing Trailing Verbenas

Growing trailing verbenas in the garden allows for great versatility in the landscape. Site selection will be the chief requirement. Trailing verbena plants will require a location that is well draining and receives ample sunlight. These plants will benefit from afternoon shade, as high temperatures can cause them to wilt during the day. 

After transplant, water trailing verbena plants well and make certain to maintain a consistent irrigation schedule. If possible, avoid wetting the plant’s foliage. In addition to watering, trailing verbena care will require daily deadheading, or the removal of spent blooms. This will ensure that the plant continues to produce flowers for the longest duration possible. 

Though growing trailing verbena plants is relatively simple, there are some issues of which growers should be aware. These flowering plants are commonly susceptible to powdery mildew, as well as a multitude of fungal and bacterial infections. When growing this plant, always look for varieties that are labelled as disease resistant. Choosing resistant varieties can assist growers in maintaining healthy and vibrant flower beds all season long.