Blue Vervain

What you'll need:

Blue Vervain seeds (you can find these at garden centers or online)

A small pot or a patch in your garden

Regular potting soil or garden soil

Watering can or spray bottle

• Sunny location

When to start:

Blue Vervain loves warmth, so it's best to plant in spring when the weather starts warming up. If you live in an area with cold winters, wait until after the last frost.

Finding a good spot:

This plant enjoys both full sun and partial shade. Find a place where it gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. If planting in pots, ensure they have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

If you have seeds:

1. Fill a small pot with moist soil.
2. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil – don’t bury them too deep, just lightly press them into the surface.
3. Mist the soil gently with water to keep it moist.
4. Place the pot in a warm, bright spot.
5. Seeds should sprout in about 2-3 weeks.
6. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the garden.

If you have seedlings:

1. Dig a small hole in the soil, about the same size as the seedling’s root ball.
2. Gently place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the roots are covered with soil.
3. Lightly press the soil around it, but don’t pack it too tightly.
4. Water immediately after planting.

Planting tips:

• Space plants about 12 inches apart if planting in the ground.
• If using pots, plant one seedling per large pot.
• After planting, water regularly to help the plant settle in.

Watering:

• Keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells.
• Water every 2-3 days, depending on how hot and dry it is.
• It’s best to water in the morning so the leaves have time to dry before evening.

Feeding time:

• Use a general-purpose fertilizer once a month to keep the plant healthy.
• Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the right amount.

Sunlight and temperature:

• Blue Vervain prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
• Ensure it gets enough sunlight each day, but partial shade is also fine.

Minor problem solving:

• If you notice yellow leaves, you might be overwatering; reduce watering frequency.
• See bugs? Rinse them off with clean water or remove them by hand.
• If the plant looks leggy, it might need more sunlight.

When to pick your Blue Vervain:

• You can harvest the leaves and flowers when the plant is in full bloom, usually in mid to late summer.
• The flowers are typically a beautiful blue-violet color and should be vibrant and fresh-looking.

How to pick:

• Use scissors or your fingers to cut or gently pull off the leaves and flowers.
• Harvest in the morning when the plant is most hydrated.

After harvesting:

• Fresh leaves and flowers can be used immediately in teas or dried for later use.
• To dry, hang the stems upside down in a cool, dark place with good air circulation.
• Once dried, store in an airtight container away from direct sunlight.

Q: My Blue Vervain isn't blooming, what should I do?

A: It might not be getting enough sunlight. Try moving it to a sunnier spot or pruning nearby plants that might be shading it.

Q: Can I grow Blue Vervain indoors?

A: Yes, but it needs plenty of light. Place it near a sunny window or use grow lights to supplement.

Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is well-draining and adjust your watering schedule.

Q: Is Blue Vervain invasive?

A: Not typically. It spreads through seeds but doesn’t aggressively take over like some invasive species.

Q: How do I encourage more blooms?

A: Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage more blooms. Also, ensure the plant has enough nutrients and sunlight.