- Species and varieties: Verbena is a genus in the family Verbenaceae. The mix colors verbena seeds typically refer to a variety of Verbena hybrida, which is known for its vibrant and diverse color range including shades of red, pink, purple, white, and blue.
- Hybrid or heirloom: Mix colors verbena seeds are often hybrid varieties. Hybrid verbenas are bred for their improved vigor, disease resistance, and a wider range of colors compared to heirloom varieties.
- Pruning and training: Regular deadheading of spent flowers encourages continuous blooming. Pruning back the plant by one-quarter to one-half in mid-summer can promote a fresh flush of growth and blooms. Verbena can be trained to grow in hanging baskets, containers, or as ground cover.
- Fertilization needs: Verbena benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied at planting time. During the growing season, a monthly application of a water-soluble fertilizer can help maintain vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Hardiness zones: Verbena is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7-11. In these zones, verbena can be grown as a perennial. In cooler climates, it is often grown as an annual.
- Climate requirements: Verbena thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers warm temperatures and can tolerate drought conditions once established. It is not frost-tolerant and should be planted after the last frost date in cooler climates.