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Verbena: When to Plant for Best Blooms in Southern California
- Wilzave Quiles Guzmán
- Jul 28
- 4 min read
Verbena is a vibrant, sun-loving plant that thrives in the warm climates of Southern California, especially in areas like Los Angeles, Riverside, and the Palisades. But to unlock its full potential, timing is everything. Knowing when to plant verbena ensures a stunning landscape with long-lasting color and healthy growth.
In this guide, Deloya Masonry shares expert advice on the best time to plant verbena, including climate-specific tips for our Southern California clients. Whether you're planning a drought-tolerant flower bed, updating a patio planter, or creating pollinator-friendly borders, planting verbena at the right time is key to success.
Why Timing Matters for Verbena
Planting verbena at the correct time:
Encourages rapid root development
Reduces the risk of transplant shock
Promotes longer blooming periods
Prevents disease from cold or wet conditions
When planted too early or too late, verbena may struggle to establish itself, leading to fewer blooms and more maintenance.
Ideal Time to Plant Verbena in Southern California
🌼 Spring Is Best
For most varieties of verbena, early spring (March through April) is the best time to plant in Southern California. The weather is warm but not hot, allowing roots to settle before summer heat kicks in.
Soil temperatures should be consistently above 55–60°F
Daytime temps between 65–75°F are ideal
Avoid planting before the last frost (rare in SoCal but still relevant inland)
🌿 Can I Plant Verbena in Fall?
Yes! In warmer microclimates (like coastal Los Angeles or the Palisades), you can also plant verbena in the fall (September through early November). This gives the plant time to develop roots over the winter and bloom early in spring.
However, be cautious in cooler inland regions like Riverside, where sudden cold snaps may harm young plants.
What About Planting Verbena from Seed?
If you're starting verbena from seed:
Indoors: Start seeds 6–10 weeks before the last expected frost
Outdoors: Direct sow after danger of frost has passed and soil warms up
Germination typically takes 14–28 days, so patience is essential. You’ll also want well-draining soil, consistent sunlight, and occasional misting to help the process.
Southern California Growing Zones
Southern California spans several USDA Hardiness Zones, which affects your planting timeline:
Region | USDA Zone | Best Planting Time |
Los Angeles | 10a–10b | March–April or Sept–Oct |
Palisades | 10b | March–April or Sept–Oct |
Riverside | 9b–10a | Late March–Early May |
Prepping the Soil for Verbena
Planting at the right time is just part of the equation. For strong growth, your verbena also needs proper soil prep:
Soil type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil
pH level: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)
Soil temperature: At least 55°F
Tip: Mix in organic compost before planting to improve drainage and provide essential nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing—verbena prefers lean soil.
Planting Verbena in Containers vs. In-Ground
Container planting: Ideal for patios, balconies, and small spaces. Use high-quality potting mix and ensure good drainage.
In-ground planting: Works best for large-scale landscaping projects like borders, pathways, and pollinator gardens.
Deloya Masonry often uses verbena as a colorful accent in custom hardscape installations—like along retaining walls, near water features, or edging stone patios. Our team selects seasonal planting times based on your specific site conditions.
How Long Does It Take for Verbena to Bloom?
If you plant in early spring, most verbena varieties begin blooming within 6–8 weeks. Some hybrid varieties bloom faster. With the right care, you can expect:
Early blooms: Late spring
Peak blooms: Summer
Extended blooms: Until the first frost (even into December in coastal areas)
Maintenance Tips for Healthy Verbena
After planting verbena at the right time, maintain it with these simple practices:
✅ Water wisely – Keep soil slightly moist but avoid soggy conditions
✅ Prune back – Light trimming encourages more blooms
✅ Deadhead spent flowers – Promotes continuous flowering
✅ Watch for pests – Aphids or spider mites may appear during heat waves
Most importantly, plant in full sun (6–8 hours daily) to maximize growth and color.
Why Choose Deloya Masonry for Your Southern California Landscape?
At Deloya Masonry, we don’t just build patios, retaining walls, or fire pits—we design full outdoor living experiences. Our team specializes in integrating climate-appropriate plantings like verbena into custom landscaping projects. We understand local conditions in Los Angeles, Riverside, and surrounding areas, ensuring that your plants and hardscapes thrive together.
Whether you need help with seasonal planting, drought-tolerant garden planning, or a full landscape redesign, we’re here to bring your vision to life.
Final Thoughts: Time It Right for Verbena Success
Planting verbena at the right time gives you the best chance of lush blooms, healthy growth, and a low-maintenance garden. In Southern California, that usually means early spring or early fall—depending on your location and goals.
🌿 Ready to add color and life to your landscape with perfectly timed verbena planting? 📞 Contact Deloya Masonry today to schedule a consultation and design your dream outdoor space.
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