How Quickly Does Lemon Verbena Plant Grow?

Lemon verbena, scientifically known as Aloysia citrodora, is a popular herb with a refreshing lemon scent and flavor. It is widely used in cooking, teas, and even aromatherapy due to its numerous health benefits. If you are planning to grow lemon verbena in your garden or indoors, it is essential to understand how quickly this plant grows and what factors influence its growth.

Growth Rate of Lemon Verbena

Lemon verbena is a perennial plant that originates from South America. In its natural habitat, it can reach a height of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) tall. However, when grown in other regions, the growth rate may vary depending on the climate, soil conditions, and care provided.

In general, lemon verbena is considered a fast-growing plant. It starts as a small seedling and can grow up to 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) tall within a year under optimal conditions. With proper care and favorable growing conditions, lemon verbena can reach its full height within 2 to 3 years.

Factors Influencing Growth

Several factors play a crucial role in the growth of lemon verbena plants. Understanding these factors will help you provide the ideal conditions for your plant’s growth and maximize its potential.

Climate

Lemon verbena thrives in warm climates with plenty of sunlight. It prefers temperatures between 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C). If you live in an area with mild winters, the plant may remain evergreen throughout the year. However, if you experience frost or freezing temperatures, lemon verbena may die back during winter but regrow in spring.

Soil Conditions

Lemon verbena requires well-draining soil with good fertility. It prefers loamy or sandy soil types with a pH level between 6 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to provide essential nutrients for the plant’s growth. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.

Watering

Proper watering is crucial for the healthy growth of lemon verbena. The plant requires regular watering, especially during dry spells or hot summer months. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, allowing the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Sunlight

Lemon verbena thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. However, it is important to note that insufficient sunlight may result in leggy growth and reduced essential oil production. Place your lemon verbena plant in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.

Pruning

Pruning plays a vital role in shaping and encouraging the growth of lemon verbena plants. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s size, promotes bushiness, and stimulates new growth. It is best to prune lemon verbena in early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and prevent disease.

Tips for Faster Growth

If you want to speed up the growth of your lemon verbena plant, here are some tips to consider:

Starting from Cuttings

Lemon verbena can be propagated from cuttings rather than seeds for faster growth. Take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem cuttings from healthy plants during spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in moist potting mix and provide them with warmth and humidity until they develop roots.

Fertilization

Applying a balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season can help boost the growth of lemon verbena. Choose a fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). Feed the plant every 4-6 weeks according to the package instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of essential oil production.

Mulching

Mulching around the base of your lemon verbena plant can help conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the plant, leaving some space around the stem to prevent rotting. Mulching also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time.

Conclusion

Lemon verbena is a fast-growing herb that can reach its full height within 2 to 3 years under optimal conditions. By providing the right climate, soil conditions, water, sunlight, and regular pruning, you can promote faster growth and ensure a healthy and productive lemon verbena plant in your garden or indoors. Remember to follow the tips mentioned above for faster growth and enjoy the aromatic leaves and delightful flavor this herb offers.