UPDATE: Gardeners are urged to divide their verbena plants this fall to maximize blooms for the upcoming season. With September and October being the ideal months for this essential gardening task, now is the time to act before the first frost arrives.
Why This Matters NOW: Verbena is renowned for its vibrant flowers that attract pollinators and enrich any garden. By dividing existing plants, gardeners not only expand their collections at no cost but also rejuvenate overcrowded clumps, ensuring healthier growth. This quick and easy process can lead to stunning displays in the spring.
Key Timing: Experts recommend dividing verbena in the fall after the flowering period but before the ground freezes. If you live in cooler climates, dividing in spring is also a viable option. Doing so in fall allows the plants to establish roots in warm soil, taking advantage of seasonal rainfall. Gardeners should ensure that divisions have 4-6 weeks to root before the frost, especially in US hardiness zones 8-11.
How to Divide Verbena: Follow these simple steps to successfully multiply your verbena plants:
1. **Dig Up the Plant:** Use a sharp spade or garden fork to carefully lift the verbena from the ground, avoiding root damage.
2. **Remove Soil:** Clear excess soil to examine the root network and identify separable sections.
3. **Divide the Clump:** Employ a sharp tool to split the root ball, ensuring each piece has healthy roots and stems.
4. **Replant Quickly:** Place the divisions in well-draining soil, ensuring the crown is at the same level as the original plant.
5. **Water Thoroughly:** Deeply water the new plants to help them establish quickly, checking regularly to prevent drying out.
For best results, consider using a soil moisture meter to monitor hydration levels. Experts also suggest a light feed with balanced fertilizer to promote growth.
Expert Tips: Avoid dividing verbena during winter or summer as these conditions increase stress on the plants. Winter division risks cold damage, while summer division requires constant watering to prevent dehydration.
Shop for Tools: To facilitate this process, gardeners can invest in essential tools like a sharp spade, hori-hori garden knife, or a reliable garden fork.
As the gardening season transitions, this opportunity to divide verbena offers a chance to enhance your garden’s visual appeal and support local ecosystems. Share this urgent gardening news with fellow enthusiasts to inspire them to take action now!