SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Cover lightly; requires darkness to germinate.
Seed To Bloom:
14-16 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Start inside 8-12 weeks before last frost and keep at 70-80°F. Cover flats with cardboard or black paper to exclude light until germination starts. Germinates irregularly, be patient, but best germination indoors in February and March.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in mid-spring after last frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Tall verbena has strong, wiry stems supporting clusters of lilac flowers in rounded heads. The freely-produced nectar attracts butterflies, including Monarchs, and hummingbirds. This care-free verbena is the star of low-maintenance gardens, such as meadow and cottage gardens, planted in large drifts in the company with grasses and other airy plants or contrasted with coarse-leaved plants, such as woodland tobacco and sunset hibiscus. Pinch when 4" tall to encourage branching. Self-sows.
Watering Details:
Moderate drought tolerance once established but best with 1" of water per week.
Soil pH:
Slightly acid to alkaline
Fertilizer:
Mix in 2" of compost prior to planting.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Cut when half of the florets are open.