Verbena Seeds and Plants

How to Sow

START INDOORS in a warm, well-lighted area 8-10 weeks before last spring frost. Water the seed flat the night before sowing because seeds are sensitive to high moisture levels. Sow seeds 1/8" deep in seed starting formula. Bottom heat speeds germination. Keep evenly moist.

How to Grow

Seedlings emerge in about 20 days at 65°F. Before transfer to garden, accustom seedlings to outdoor conditions by moving to a sheltered place outside for a week. SET PLANTS 12" apart in a sunny location, in well-drained soil, after danger of frost. Water until plants are established or during extended dry weather. Deadhead or shear back verbenas after the main flush of flowers to encourage rebloom. Divide in spring if they outgrow their space, lose vigor, or propogate.

Harvesting

Use verbenas to add bright color to any sunny planting in dry, well-drained soil. Combine them with nasturtium, gazanias, blanket flowers, lavenders, achillea, sedums, purple coneflower, and yuccas. Garden verbenas make good edging and container plants. They also attract butterflies, beneficial insects, and hummingbirds to the garden.