Lantana: A Guide to Growing in Containers
Lantana is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden or patio. It is known for its sweet fragrance and bright blooms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. While lantana is typically grown outdoors in warm climates, it can also be grown in containers in cooler climates.
Types of Lantana Plants for Containers
There are many different types of lantana plants available, but not all are suitable for growing in containers. Some varieties can grow quite large, so it is important to choose a dwarf or weeping variety that will stay relatively small.
- Dwarf lantana: These varieties typically reach heights of only 12 to 16 inches, making them ideal for standard-size containers. Popular dwarf varieties include ‘Chapel Hill’, ‘Patriot’, ‘Denholm White’, and ‘Pinkie’.
- Weeping lantana: These varieties have a vine-like growth habit and are perfect for hanging baskets or containers. Popular weeping varieties include ‘Weeping White’ and ‘Weeping Lavender’.
- Trailing lantana: This species is a bit larger than dwarf lantana, reaching heights of 8 to 14 inches and spreading up to 4 feet wide. It is available in white or purple varieties.
How to Grow Lantana in Containers
Growing lantana in containers is easy, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- Choose the right container: The container should have drainage holes in the bottom and be large enough to accommodate the size of the plant you choose.
- Use a well-draining potting mix: Lantana does not like to sit in wet soil, so it is important to use a potting mix that drains well. You can add a handful of sand, vermiculite, or perlite to improve drainage.
- Place the container in a sunny location: Lantana needs plenty of sunlight to thrive. Place the container in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Water regularly: Water the lantana plant deeply and regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again.
- Fertilize occasionally: Lantana benefits from occasional fertilization. Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Caring for Lantana in Pots
Lantana is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few things you can do to keep it looking its best.
- Deadhead the flowers: Deadheading the flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Simply remove the spent flowers from the plant.
- Prune the plant: If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, you can prune it back by one-third. Pruning will help to promote new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.
- Overwinter lantana indoors: If you live in a cold climate, you will need to bring your lantana plant indoors before the first frost. Place the plant in a cool, well-lit area and water it sparingly.
Conclusion
Lantana is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden or patio. By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful lantana plants for many years to come.
