Verbenas are popular in gardens and outdoor spaces because they are relatively low maintenance, and when properly cared for, these plants are loaded with clusters of vibrantly colored flowers. Whether newly planted or established, fertilizing your Verbena can help your plant stay healthy and grow rapidly.
How to Fertilize Verbena
When planting, the easiest way to fertilize Verbena is to mix organic matter, like compost or manure, into the soil. Verbenas are not very fussy when it comes to soil and can handle poor quality soil, but they grow and bloom best in soil with high organic content. A slightly acidic soil pH of 5.8 to 7.2 is ideal.
A balanced fertilizer applied monthly during the growing season can help encourage more flowers and extend the blooming period—water the plant before applying a water-soluble fertilizer. Wet roots are better able to absorb the fertilizer and avoid fertilizer burn.
Best Time To Fertilize Verbena
Fertilize Verbena once per month as soon as the plant starts to bloom. Container plants can be fertilized every two weeks to help sustain growth and flowers. In warm climates, perennial Verbena can grow year-round. Continue to fertilize if your Verbena is blooming, but stop fertilizing if the plant goes dormant.
Best Fertilizer For Verbena
A topdressing of organic matter is an excellent choice to feed plants. The best commercial fertilizer for Verbena is a slow-release formula for blooming plants. Look for a ratio around 3-1-2, or use Miracle Grow Shake 'n Feed.
Verbena Fertilizing Tips
- Start fertilizing Verbena when the first round of flowers start to bloom
- Use a slow-release fertilizer intended to promote flowering
- Apply fertilizer once per month until the plant stops blooming
- Water the plant before feeding to prevent fertilizer burn
Warnings
-Always wear protective gloves and a face mask when handling chemical fertilizers.
-Closely follow all directions and storage guidelines that are on the fertilizer label.
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 12-13-2021 |