Lantana are fragrant natives of tropical regions in the Americas and Africa. These broadleaf evergreen shrubs are drought-hardy in landscapes and cold-hardy to slightly below freezing, so they can be grown as perennials in Florida and other warm regions. Upright varieties are best grown in containers for landscape use, but they also work well in combination planters.Trailing varieties are best suited for hanging baskets and cascading elements in combination planters. Adding lantana to your spring program will attract pollinators and customers alike.
General Growing Tips For Your Rooted Cutting Liner
For best results with Lantana, we recommend using a well-drained soil with a constant feed program of 200-250 ppm N. Maintain a pH between 5.6 - 6.2. Optimal EC of 2.0 to 2.2 mS/cm.
Pinching
We recommend that you first pinch Dark Purple 5-10 days after transplanting to your final container. Pinch frequently to promote proper plant shape. Deadhead blooms to encourage fresh flowering.
Spacing
Lantana should be spaced adequately to allow airflow and light penetration between the foliage. Usually 2’ centers on baskets will be enough.
Height Control
Plant Growth Regulators are effective in keeping Lantana short, especially when grown pot-tight in 1801s. Allow 3-5 weeks from the last spray for the plant to flower.
Pests
Whiteflies, aphids, and leafminers are the primary problem pests with Lantana.
Disease
Dark Purple are not prone to many diseases, but watch for botrytis while the days are short. This grey rot is usually associated with wet or humid conditions. You can prevent botrytis by allowing the plant to dry out between waterings, allowing for good airflow in your greenhouse, and spacing to allow the sun to penetrate to the soil level. The most common chemicals used to treat botrytis are Medallion and Banrot. Use them as a drench according to each label’s instructions.
Planting Dark Purple Liners
- We recommend planting 5 starter plants per 10 inch basket. Use a well-drained soil in your baskets and plant your starter plants deep, allowing the ellepot to be completely covered by the soil. If you are planting 4” pots, 1 plant per pot should be sufficient. Plant it directly in the middle of your pot.
- Pinch Dark Purple 5-10 days after transplanting to your final container. Pinch frequently to promote proper plant shape. Deadhead blooms to encourage fresh flowering.
Rooted Cuttings
Cuttings vary in size between different plant families. These rooted starter plants will arrive ready to be transplanted in to your final container. If they are to be used in a landscape application, you will need to establish them in a 4 inch pot or an 1801 before planting outside.
Lantana Dark Purple Quick Reference Guide
| 4 Inch crop time | 6 Weeks |
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| 10 Inch crop time | 8-10 Weeks |
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| Bloom Period | Constant |
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| Color | Purple |
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| Habit | Mounding, Upright |
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| Height | 16-20 inches |
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| Light | Full Sun |
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| Minimum Temp | 60 |
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| Perennial Zone | Zones 9-11 |
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| Water Needs | Light, Moderate |
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| Patented Plant | No |
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