Why is my verbena leggy?

There are several reasons why your verbena might be growing leggy. Leggy growth refers to long, spindly stems that aren’t as compact and full as they should be. Here are some possible causes:

1. Insufficient sunlight: Verbena plants thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If your verbena is not getting enough sunlight, it may stretch towards the light, resulting in leggy growth. Make sure your verbena is planted in a location with ample sunlight.

2. Overcrowding: If your verbena is planted too close to other plants, it may compete for light and space. This can lead to leggy growth as the plant stretches to reach sunlight. Consider spacing your verbena plants adequately to allow for proper air circulation and light exposure.

3. Nutrient deficiencies: Verbena plants require well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If the soil lacks essential nutrients, the plant may grow weak and leggy. Ensure that you have fertilized your verbena with a balanced fertilizer to provide it with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

4. Improper pruning: Pruning verbena is essential to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. However, if you prune too much or at the wrong time, it can result in leggy growth. Prune verbena in early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth, and then lightly trim the plant throughout the growing season to encourage branching and compactness.

5. Inadequate water: While verbena is drought-resistant, it still requires regular watering to maintain optimal growth. If your verbena is not receiving enough water, it may grow leggy as a survival mechanism to reach deeper soil moisture. Ensure that your verbena receives about 1 inch of water per week, either from irrigation or rainfall.