The first time that I saw a Wisteria, I knew that I wanted one for my garden. A neighbor, had a Wisteria tree and when it was in full bloom it was the most beautiful tree that I had ever seen. Wisterias are vines that can live a long time and because of how sturdy they can become they can be grown as a standard or tree form. Most gardeners grow them as a vine, but beware they do need a very STRONG structure to climb on. They are hardy, vigorous growers that can grow to about 25 feet and can live a very long life. This is a plant that requires a committed gardener because you will be doing lots of pruning to keep it in bounds. Wisteria prefers full sun and moderately fertile moist soil that does not dry out excessively. They will adapt to most soils, but prefer neutral to slightly acid. Do not fertilize this plant with nitrogen unless you want to spend lots of time pruning.
Wisteria flowers are pea like and very fragrant. They come in white, pink, lilac-blue, bluish-purple or purple depending on the variety. They bloom in spring and produce a flat seed pod. If you grow from seed, it will take 10 to 15 years for your plant to bloom. Cuttings will bloom much earlier. Young plants can be fertilized until they fill the alloted area you want them to grow in.Once the plant matures do not fertilize unless growth and color are not good. If you stimulate vegetative growth you will limit your flowers. When you purchase a Wisteria, buy one with a single trunk or leader.
Grow Wisteria on a strong structure like a wood pergola, arbor or trellis. If you grow it on your house, keep it in bounds to prevent damage to your home. This is what it can do to a fence (see pictures).
If your Wisteria does not bloom it could be caused by the following:
Grow Wisteria on a strong structure like a wood pergola, arbor or trellis. If you grow it on your house, keep it in bounds to prevent damage to your home. This is what it can do to a fence (see pictures).
If your Wisteria does not bloom it could be caused by the following:- Young plant - needs time to mature if it was grown from seed. Purchase grafted Wisteria vines instead.
- Not enough sun.
- Pruned incorrectly.
- Flower buds could have been killed due to a severe winter.
- Excessive nitrogen fertilizer.
To encourage blooming, try adding a superphosphate (0-20-0) in early spring and proper pruning during the year including root pruning in late fall. Wisteria does not transplant very well. Wisteria is a beautiful vine that can be outstanding in a garden setting. Just remember this plant will require more maintenance than most plants.
Happy Gardening!
The Creative Gardener