How to grow verbena trailing
Overview
Verbena trailing (Glandularia peruviana) is a herbaceous perennial grown for its cascading habit and clusters of small, colourful flowers. It is ideal for filling gaps in garden beds or spilling from containers and hanging baskets, and thrives in hot, sunny conditions.
Varieties
- Verbena 'Homestead Purple' — A vigorous, deep purple-flowered selection that is widely grown in Australian gardens for its long bloom season.
- Verbena 'Tapien' series — Bred for compact, trailing habit with small flowers in pink, lavender, or white; ideal for hanging baskets.
Soil Preparation
Verbena trailing prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) that is well-draining and moderately fertile. Before planting, work in a handful of slow-release fertiliser or compost, and ensure the site does not become waterlogged—raised beds or containers improve drainage.
Growing Guide
Plant verbena trailing in a position that receives full sun all day. Use a free-draining soil or potting mix, and space plants 25–30 cm apart to allow for their spreading habit. Water sparingly once established—overwatering leads to leggy growth and fewer flowers. Pinch out the growing tips at planting to encourage a bushy, dense shape.
Care
Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10) during the growing season to support continuous bloom. Prune back by one-third after the first major flush to encourage reblooming and maintain a compact shape. Regularly pinch off spent flowers and leggy stems to keep the plant dense and productive.
Companion Planting
Verbena trailing pairs well with petunias, calibrachoa, and lobelia for a vibrant, trailing display. Avoid planting near heavy feeders like tomatoes or corn, which may compete for nutrients and leave verbena struggling.
Common Pests & Risks
Powdery mildew can occur in humid or poorly ventilated conditions—space plants well and avoid overhead watering. Spider mites may appear in dry spells; control them with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap. Treat any infestations promptly to prevent spread.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: usually from overwatering or poor drainage—reduce watering and improve soil drainage. Brown leaf edges: often a sign of salt buildup from fertiliser—flush soil with water and reduce feeding frequency. Leggy growth: caused by insufficient light or lack of pinching—move to full sun and pinch tips regularly. Powdery mildew: white coating on leaves in humid conditions—improve air circulation and apply a fungicide. Few flowers: may be due to too much nitrogen or not enough sun—switch to a balanced fertiliser and ensure full sun.