Growing Wisteria
Some Things to Keep in Mind When Growing Wisteria
There are many good reasons to want to learn about growing wisteria. In addition to the lovely fragrance that it emits throughout the spring, various types of wisteria are also impossibly beautiful to the eyes.
Still, as with many things that are beautiful, dealing with them comes with a price. If proper care is not taken when growing wisteria, it can easily and quickly take over an entire yard. It is for this very reason that many gardeners choose not to include wisteria.
Many, however, cannot resist its beauty and are willing to put in a little extra work in order to be able to see its light purple blooms throughout the spring and summer. Here are some things to keep in mind when growing wisteria.
Location
As with many types of plants, choosing the ideal location is very important when growing wisteria. Remember that once it starts growing, your only concern regarding the care of the plant will be pruning. For that reason, it is important to make sure that the plant will be easy to reach.
Another consideration is the climate. When growing wisteria, keep in mind that the plant prefers warmer climates. It should not be planted in areas where it is heavily shaded. The soil should be deep and well draining.
Pruning
This plant is a favorite among those who enjoy bonsai. Of course, to those growers, the constant pruning is part of the fun. Even if you are not into bonsai, you must get used to the pruning requirements of growing wisteria.
While it is possible to train the plant, doing so will take some time. In the meantime, you will need to prune it lest it take over the entire yard.
From Cuttings or Seeds?
Growing wisteria from cuttings is a popular choice. While growing from seeds might not be particularly difficult, when you start from seeds it can take several years for the plant to produce any blooms. While there are some who enjoy such a challenge, many others simply do not care to wait that long to see a bloom.
Other Tips
The best time to plant from cuttings or from a container is in the spring. Keep in mind that this plant is quite fast growing and will need a good support structure. While it does require a lot of care, if you fail to properly trim back the plant it can grow too heavy for the support structure.
Even if you do not mind the look of the growing wisteria as it begins to take over your yard, it is best to prune it each year. This will keep the plant manageable.
It is possible to train the wisteria into the form of a small tree. To do this, you will need to provide a very sturdy stake on which the wisteria is to be placed in an upright position. Simply trim away the side growths and let the center vine continue to grow.
However you choose to go about growing wisteria, with proper care it is a plant that will give you years of enjoyment.