Lemon Verbena Plant Stages of Growth

Lemon verbena, also known as Aloysia citrodora, is a perennial herb that is native to South America. It is widely cultivated for its fragrant leaves, which are used in cooking, tea, and aromatherapy. The lemon verbena plant goes through several stages of growth before reaching maturity. In this article, we will explore these stages and provide tips on how to care for your lemon verbena plant at each stage.

Stage 1: Seed Germination

The first stage of a lemon verbena plant’s growth begins with seed germination. Lemon verbena seeds are small and should be sown in a well-draining potting mix. Start by filling a seed tray or small pots with the potting mix and lightly press the seeds into the soil. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during this stage.

Germination typically takes around 10 to 14 days. During this time, it is crucial to provide the seeds with warmth and light. Placing the seed tray in a warm location or using a heating mat can help speed up the germination process. Once the seeds have sprouted, they can be moved to a brighter location or under grow lights.

Stage 2: Seedling Growth

Once the lemon verbena seeds have successfully germinated, they will enter the seedling stage. At this point, it is important to provide the young plants with adequate care and attention to ensure healthy growth.

Transplant the seedlings into larger pots once they have developed their first true leaves. This will provide them with more space for root development. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

During the seedling stage, it is important to provide the plants with plenty of light. Place them in a sunny location or use grow lights to ensure they receive adequate light for at least 12 hours a day. Regularly water the seedlings, keeping the soil slightly moist but not overly wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is essential to find the right balance.

Stage 3: Vegetative Growth

As the lemon verbena plants continue to grow, they will enter the vegetative stage. During this stage, the plants will focus on developing a strong root system and growing their foliage. Proper care during this stage will contribute to healthy and robust plants.

Continue to provide the plants with ample light, either by placing them in a sunny location or using grow lights. Lemon verbena plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Water the plants regularly, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. It is also beneficial to add a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Regularly prune the lemon verbena plants during the vegetative stage to encourage bushier growth. Pinch off the top of each stem to promote branching and increase foliage production. Pruning will also help maintain a compact shape and prevent the plants from becoming leggy.

Stage 4: Flowering

Once the lemon verbena plants have reached maturity, usually after several months of vegetative growth, they will begin to produce flowers. The flowering stage is an exciting time for lemon verbena growers, as it signals that their efforts have paid off.

Lemon verbena flowers are small and white with a delicate fragrance. They attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for fruit set in some varieties. It is important to continue providing adequate light, water, and care during the flowering stage to ensure a successful bloom.

While the flowers are beautiful, it is worth noting that they can detract from the flavor of the leaves. Some growers choose to remove the flowers to maintain the highest quality foliage. However, if you are growing lemon verbena for its ornamental value, leaving the flowers intact can add a lovely touch to your garden.

Stage 5: Harvesting

The final stage of a lemon verbena plant’s growth cycle is harvesting. Lemon verbena leaves are best harvested before the plant enters its dormant phase in winter. The leaves should be picked in the morning when their essential oils are most concentrated.

To harvest the leaves, simply pinch them off at the stem. You can harvest individual leaves as needed or prune back larger sections of the plant. Lemon verbena leaves can be used fresh or dried for later use. They are highly fragrant and have a strong lemony flavor, making them a popular addition to teas, desserts, and savory dishes.

Conclusion

Growing a lemon verbena plant from seed is a rewarding experience. From seed germination to harvesting, each stage brings its own joys and challenges. By providing the plant with proper care and attention at each stage, you can ensure healthy growth and abundant harvests of fragrant lemon verbena leaves. So grab your gardening tools and get ready to embark on a journey of growth with your lemon verbena plant!