Verbena Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

If you are a gardening enthusiast, you have likely come across the beautiful and vibrant verbena plant. With its clusters of colorful flowers and delicate foliage, verbena is a popular choice for many gardeners. Whether you are starting your verbena plants from seeds or looking to store them for future use, this guide will provide you with all the information you need for successful storing, sowing, and germination.

Storing Verbena Seeds

Before we delve into the process of sowing and germinating verbena seeds, it is important to understand how to properly store them. Storing your verbena seeds correctly will ensure their viability and increase the chances of successful germination.

1. Harvesting Seeds: The first step in storing verbena seeds is to harvest them. Wait until the flowers have bloomed and started to fade. At this point, the seed heads will have formed. Gently gather these seed heads and place them in a paper bag.

2. Drying Seeds: Once you have collected the seed heads, allow them to dry completely before removing the seeds. This can take several days or even weeks, depending on the humidity levels in your area. Place the paper bag in a cool and dry location, away from direct sunlight.

3. Removing Seeds: After the seed heads are fully dried, gently crush or shake them to release the seeds. Be careful not to damage the seeds during this process.

4. Cleaning Seeds: To ensure that only viable seeds are stored, it is important to separate any debris or chaff from the seeds. You can do this by gently blowing on the seeds or using a fine mesh sieve.

5. Storing Seeds: Once you have cleaned the seeds, place them in an airtight container such as a glass jar or a plastic bag with a ziplock seal. Make sure to label the container with the date and type of seeds. Store the container in a cool and dark place, such as a refrigerator or a basement, to maintain seed viability.

Sowing Verbena Seeds

Now that you have properly stored your verbena seeds, it is time to sow them. Sowing verbena seeds can be done either indoors or directly in your garden, depending on the climate and growing conditions.

1. Indoor Sowing: If you live in an area with a short growing season or harsh weather conditions, starting your verbena seeds indoors will give them a head start. Fill small seed trays or pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.

2. Sowing Depth: Gently press the seeds into the soil, but do not cover them completely as they require light for germination. A depth of 1/8 inch (3 mm) is usually sufficient.

3. Moisture and Temperature: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. Verbena seeds require warm temperatures to germinate, around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Using a seedling heat mat can help maintain optimal temperature levels.

4. Germination Time: Verbena seeds typically germinate within 10-20 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, provide them with bright light by placing them near a sunny window or using grow lights.

5. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into individual pots or into your garden. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in their final location.

Germinating Verbena Seeds

If you have stored verbena seeds from a previous season or received them as gifts, it is essential to test their viability before sowing them. Performing a germination test will help you determine the percentage of seeds that will successfully sprout.

1. Seed Viability Test: Take a damp paper towel and place a few verbena seeds onto it. Fold the paper towel over the seeds, making sure they are in contact with the moist surface. Place the paper towel in a plastic bag and seal it. Keep the bag in a warm location, around 70-75°F (21-24°C).

2. Checking Germination: After a week, check the paper towel to see how many seeds have sprouted. Count the number of germinated seeds to calculate the germination rate. If less than 50% of the seeds have sprouted, it is advisable to purchase fresh seeds for better results.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure successful storing, sowing, and germination of your verbena plant seeds. With their vibrant colors and delicate beauty, verbena plants can add a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the joy of growing your own verbena from seeds!