Verbena

Donalena verbenas present broad-leafed dark-green foliage and large flower clusters. They feature a rapid and easy growth habit and a long blooming season. They perform well in hanging baskets and as a ground cover.

Use one plant per 4-inch pot (ready for sales in five to eight weeks) use one to two plants per 6-inch pot (ready in seven to nine weeks), and use three to four plants per 10-inch basket (ready in 10 to 12 weeks).

Plants should be pinched seven to 10 days after planting to encourage branching. An additional pinch is recommended for hanging baskets.  

Full sunlight is preferable (minimum of 6,000 foot-candles). Maintain day temperature at 64 to 80° F and night temperature at 60 to 70° F.

constant feed with a balanced fertilizer at 200- to 250-ppm nitrogen is recommended. Maintain medium moisture levels. Surplus water must be avoided. Growth regulators are optional and not necessary under high light intensities.

Insects to watch for are whitefly, aphids, mites and thrips. Spray plants preventively. Diseases that may affect verbena are powdery mildew, Phythophthora and Pythium. Maintain good air circulation and good sanitation practices. Drench with broad-spectrum fungicide at liner planting.