Why Your Lemon Verbena Plant Is Growing Sideways

If you have noticed that your lemon verbena plant is growing sideways instead of upright, you may be wondering what could be the cause of this unusual growth pattern. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a popular herb known for its lemony fragrance and culinary uses. It is typically a bushy shrub that grows upright, but sometimes it can exhibit strange growth habits. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons why your lemon verbena plant is growing sideways and how to correct this issue.

Lack of Sunlight

One of the most common reasons why lemon verbena plants grow sideways is the lack of sunlight. Lemon verbena is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sun conditions. When it does not receive enough sunlight, it may start to lean or grow horizontally in an attempt to reach more light.

To ensure proper growth, make sure your lemon verbena plant is located in a spot where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If your plant is growing indoors, place it near a south-facing window or use artificial grow lights to supplement the natural light.

Improper Pruning Technique

Pruning plays an essential role in shaping the growth of your lemon verbena plant. If you are pruning your plant incorrectly, it can lead to irregular growth patterns, including sideways growth.

When pruning lemon verbena, always use sharp and clean pruning shears. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Then, trim back any excessively long branches to promote bushier growth. It is important to make clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud to encourage new growth in the right direction.

Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at a time as this can stress the lemon verbena and result in erratic growth patterns. Regular and proper pruning will help maintain an upright growth habit.

Poor Soil Drainage

Another factor that can contribute to sideways growth in lemon verbena plants is poor soil drainage. If the soil around the plant retains too much water, it can cause the roots to become waterlogged and weak. As a result, the plant may start to lean or grow horizontally.

To prevent this issue, ensure that your lemon verbena is planted in well-draining soil. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or peat moss into the soil to improve drainage. Additionally, avoid overwatering your plant and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions.

Lack of Nutrients

Lemon verbena plants require regular feeding to thrive and maintain an upright growth habit. If your plant lacks essential nutrients, it may struggle to grow vertically and instead grow sideways.

To provide your lemon verbena with the necessary nutrients, fertilize it every four to six weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Look for a fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the package instructions for application rates and frequency.

Pests and Diseases

Sometimes, pests or diseases can be the underlying cause of sideways growth in lemon verbena plants. Common pests that may attack lemon verbena include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can weaken the plant and disrupt its growth patterns.

Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of pests or diseases. If you notice any infestations, treat them promptly using organic insecticides or insecticidal soap. Additionally, ensure that your lemon verbena is planted in well-drained soil and provide adequate air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.

Correcting Sideways Growth

If your lemon verbena plant is already growing sideways, there are steps you can take to correct its growth pattern. Gently stake the plant using garden stakes or bamboo poles. Secure the stems to the stakes using soft plant ties or twine. This will help support the plant and encourage it to grow upright.

Additionally, consider rotating the plant every few days to ensure that all sides receive equal sunlight. This can help redirect the growth and encourage the plant to straighten up.

In conclusion, if your lemon verbena plant is growing sideways, it is likely due to a combination of factors such as lack of sunlight, improper pruning, poor soil drainage, lack of nutrients, or pests and diseases. By addressing these issues and providing the necessary care, you can encourage your lemon verbena plant to grow upright and thrive in its natural form.