How to Grow Verbena

Start Verbena seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

Verbena typically matures in about 85 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Verbena should be started indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

Verbena requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

Space Verbena plants 12 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Verbena has moderate (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Verbena is rated moderate. Allow flower clusters to dry on the plant. Collect dry seed clusters. Break apart dry clusters to release seeds, dry 1 week in open envelope.

Properly dried and stored Verbena seeds remain viable for up to 2 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Many commonly sold Verbena varieties are F1 hybrids, meaning seeds saved from them will not grow true to the parent plant. For reliable seed saving, look specifically for open-pollinated or heirloom varieties.