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Written by Rachel Paxton
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Sunday, 15 July 2007 |
 Growing up I thought lilacs were the most fragrant spring
flowers. It wasn't until I moved into our current home that I
was introduced to the fragrant wisteria vine, now another spring
favorite! My wisteria vine is now in full bloom, and almost
nothing can compare to its large, fragrant purple flowers.
Wisteria is a decidous climbing vine that is very hardy. It can
grow very high and is known for its longevity. Two species of
wisteria are common: Chinese wisteria (W. sinensis), and Japanese
wisteria (W. floribunda). Both can grow to a height of 25 feet
or more. The Chinese variety bloom all at one time, and the
Japanese variety bloom gradually over a period of weeks.
Chinese wisteria blooms grow to 6-12 inches in length and flower
early to mid-May. Depending on the variety, flowers can be
violet-blue, white, or dark purple.
Japanese wisteria clusters can grow 12-18 inches in length and
bloom in late May. Depending on the variety, flowers can be
several shades of pink, white, or several shades of violet.
 Wisteria requires 6-8 hours of full sun each day and moist
well-drained soil. Plants become large and heavy in time, so it
will need some kind of support. Wisteria grows best on
structures such as pergolas, trellises, and arbors. Ours is
growing over the top of a pergola. Keep in mind that older plants
have a trunk several inches in diameter. Make sure the support
can handle the weight of a heavy vine; some purchased structures
will not be able to handle the weight of a well established
wisteria vine. In addition, don't plant a vine too close to rain
gutters and other structures on your home or they may cause
serious damage in time.
Pruning is required to keep your wisteria from taking over. You
can trim off the top of the main branch when it has reached an
optimum height. Train the main branch on the support you have
attached it to, and trim and train side shoots as necessary to
achieve the desired shape. In the winter you can completely
remove poorly spaced branches to improve the overall look of the
vine. Pruning in late spring or early summer, after bloom time,
will promote future flower production. You can cut back vines to
5 or 6 buds remaining. Pruning will actually accelerate the
growth of your vine. If you over-prune your wisteria, however,
don't fret, it will grow back next year and then some.
Waiting patiently for your wisteria to bloom? If you have just
planted your wisteria vine, the vine goes through a "juvenile"
stage where it does not bloom for up to 7 years, so be patient
and keep pruning and training the vines until the blooms appear.
Make sure to plant root cuttings or grafted plants, wisteria
grown from seed can take more than 10 years to achieve its first
blooms.
Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom of four. For tips on
vegetable gardening, growing flowers, herb gardening, attracting
birds and butterflies to your garden, composting, and more, visit
http://www.Garden-Diva.com.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 15 July 2007 )
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