Moss Verbena Seeds - Verbena tenuisecta

8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 8-11 - This plant is a true perennial in these zones, returning each year. It can also be grown as an annual in cooler climates.

Best performance in Zones 8-10, where it will thrive with minimal care. It can handle the heat and humidity of these climates, producing continuous blooms.

Cooler Climate Zones (7 and below) - Can be grown as a warm-season annual. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed up.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil for successful germination, with a minimum of 65F to sprout. Optimal soil temperature is between 70F and 85F for quick and reliable germination.

Growing Season - As a perennial, it will grow and bloom from spring to fall in its native zones. When grown as an annual, it requires 60-90 frost-free days to mature and bloom.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:

Indoors: Start seeds 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date.

Outdoors: Direct sow seeds after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has consistently reached at least 65F. Moss Verbena is heat-loving and will not germinate well in cold soil.

Seed Starting:

Prepare a Seed Tray: Fill a seed tray or small pots with a light, well-draining seed starting mix.

Sow Seeds: Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil. Moss verbena seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them.

Water & Cover: Gently mist the soil to moisten it, then cover the tray with a clear plastic dome or wrap to maintain humidity.

Provide Warmth: Place the tray in a warm location with a consistent temperature of 70F to 85F. A heat mat is highly recommended to ensure consistent germination.

Patience is Key: Germination can be slow and erratic, taking anywhere from 14 to 30 days. Be patient and keep the soil consistently moist.

After Germination: Once seedlings appear, remove the plastic cover and move them to a sunny location or under grow lights to prevent them from getting "leggy."

Transplanting & Direct Sowing:

Hardening Off: If you started your seeds indoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting.

Choose a Location: Select a spot in your garden with full sun. Moss verbena thrives in at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It tolerates poor soil but requires good drainage.

Planting: Space plants 12-18 inches apart. The plant will spread to fill in the space, creating a dense groundcover.

Watering: Water newly transplanted seedlings regularly until they are established. Once established, they are highly drought-tolerant and will only need watering during extended dry periods.

Care & Maintenance:

Fertilizing: Moss verbena generally doesn't require fertilizer. If your soil is very poor, a light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring can encourage growth.

Pruning: To encourage bushier growth and a tidier appearance, you can trim back the stems after a flush of blooms. This will also promote a new round of flowering.

Pests & Diseases: This plant is very resistant to most pests and diseases. Ensure good air circulation and well-draining soil to prevent fungal issues.