Verbenas, which grow as both annuals and perennials, are known for their drought and heat tolerance and long blooming season. Homestead Purple (Verbena canadensis "Homestead Purple") is one of the showiest and most vigorous. It grows as a perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 7 through 10. Homestead Purple verbena does equally well in dry and humid areas and tolerates a variety of soils. It can be planted as a spreading ground cover, trailing over retaining walls or in a hanging pot, and should be grown in full sun.
Select a location that gets full sun all day and has well-draining soil. Allow 3 to 4 square feet per plant.
Dig a hole as large as the rootball of each plant. Gently remove the plant from the pot. Tease the roots apart. Place the plant in the hole and firm the soil around the rootball. Space the plants 18 inches apart.
Water the verbena frequently for the first few weeks. Water only when the soil is dry once the plants have become established. Do not water overhead.
Cut the verbena plants back at the end of the summer to encourage continued flowering. Fertilize the plants lightly with 16-4-8 fertilizer after you cut them back.
Things You Will Need
- 16-4-8 fertilizer
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images