Lantana (Lantana Camara) grows very well in pots and is often used alone or to create colorful container gardens and hanging baskets. Lantana flowers are bright and colorful and attract hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden space. These delicate verbena style flowers are sure to delight all that grow them and lantana planted in containers and pots can be placed on patios, balconies, in the garden, entryway, and decks.
They love a sunny spot but can also do well in a semi shaded area. Once established they are easy to care for and as long as they are kept well watered and given a good slow release fertilizer every month, they really do not require much special care or attention.
Planting Lantana in Pots
Lantana can be planted in a container any time of year but early spring is best. They love full sun but can also do well in a partially shaded location. Good drainage is a must as they do not like to have their roots sitting in water. Before planting your container it is always best to check the number of drainage holes and even drill a few more or line the bottom of your pot with some small pebbles or gravel. Lantana also can be planted in hanging baskets and do well with other plants with similar growing requirements.
Most potting soil works best but lantanas do benefit from a slightly acidic mix. Also if your potting soil already has fertilizer or food mixed in, you may not need to feed your plants or fertilize them for a few months.
Best Soil For Lantana in Pots
Most commercial potting soil mixes work well for lantana plants. They do well in most soil types but do favor a more acidic mix. They do not need a lot of special plant food or fertilizers. A good general soil mix will work and a general slow release water soluble plant fertilizer is also acceptable. If drainage is an issue you may want to add some small rocks to the bottom of your container .
Caring For Lantana in Planters
Lantana really do not require much special care when growing in a container. You may want to cut back plant shoots and deadhead any spent flower blooms to keep your plants healthy and thriving. They also do well in hanging baskets adding color and interest to your garden and love a sunny spot where birds and butterflies can discover them.
Watering Lantana in Pots
Lantana needs a good weekly soaking to thrive. They can tolerate periods of drought, if your pots dry out between watering. A consistent watering schedule is best. To check if the soil is well hydrated don’t just check the surface of your pot but stick your finger down to the root level to make sure your plants are receiving plenty of moisture. Do not let your plants sit in water or become “boggy” as this can damage root systems.
Fertilizing Lantana in Pots
When planted in the ground, lantana do not need a lot of fertilizer or special attention. In containers because the growing area is more concentrated and less room for the plant’s root system to branch out, you will want to feed your container plants every month with a good general slow release water soluble fertilizer or plant food.
Winter Care For Lantana in Pots
If you live in a cooler climate but wish to keep your plants over the winter you may move them inside a sunny garage or greenhouse so that they will survive the colder winter months. If you climate has milder temperatures you will want to transplant your hanging basket plants into containers and move them and other planted pots next to your house where they will receive extra protection from the cold. Watch your weather reports and if your area is expecting a hard freeze you can cover your plants for extra protection with heavy burlap or old blankets.
Growing Lantana Indoors
Lantana plants are outdoor plants but can be grown indoors during the winter months if placed near or in a sunny window or sun porch. You may need to turn your pots weekly so that the whole plant receives full sun. You will also want to spray your plants weekly or place them on trays of gravel and add some water to keep the humidity level up around your plants. Most homes are heated during the winter months making the air drier and harder on your plants.
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Author Janice Cox - Published 12-15-2021 |