I've read all the letters on this subject and none are from my area (zone 8). I'm the envy of the neighborhood with large verbena that has spread like wildfire and is still putting on a show, and the smaller, finer verbena which has done well if not spectacularly. Should I cut it back? I water with a dripper at the center of each plant. Our soil is red, full of minerals, and rocky. Apparently they love it. Thank you!! |
Sounds as though your verbena is spectacular! As difficult as it might be for you, pinching the stem tips back throughout the growing season and a hard pruning in the fall will actually keep your verbena happy and healthy. It flowers on new growth so the more new growth you can encourage, the more blooms you'll see. Cut the plant back by at least one-third this winter. This will remove enough of the growth to make your plant want to grow well next spring. If there is winter damage, you can cut it off next spring. Best wishes with your verbena! |