Growing Wisteria in a Pot
Wisterias can be beautiful and fragrant additions to your garden, patio or balcony if you can find an area with the right conditions for them. But if you don’t have the right conditions, don’t worry – you can still enjoy the beauty of wisteria by growing them in containers.
Choosing the Right Container
The first step to success is selecting the best vessel for your wisteria. Depending on the variety, some wisteria can get quite big, so opt for a large container. The larger the pot, the better it will be for the plant’s root system. It should also have plenty of drainage holes on the bottom to let water out.
The Right Soil
Potting soil should be used to fill up the container. Wisteria generally prefers soil that is slightly acidic – that means the pH should be around 5.5 to 6.5. If you need to bring the pH down, additives like composted leaves or pine bark can do the trick.
Watering
Wisteria need regular watering, especially if they are planted in a pot. Check the soil regularly and, if it feels dry, water thoroughly. Be sure to let the top inch of soil dry out between each watering so as not to drown the plant.
Fertilizing
Wisteria like plenty of fertilizer to stay healthy. Use a slow-release fertilization every two months during the growing season and make sure to follow the instructions on the label for the amount and frequency.
Pruning
As with all wisteria, those planted in pots will need to be pruned regularly. Prune off weak and dead branches every year and lightly prune the vine from time to time as well. This will keep the plant from becoming too sprawling and encourage more blooms.
Winter Care
Winter care for a potted wisteria is similar to that of a regular wisteria. During the winter months, protect the roots from the cold by insulating the pot with something like straw. The plant itself should be pruned back below any frost line in your area.
Conclusion
Growing a wisteria in a pot can be a wonderful way to enjoy the fragrant beauty of this plant. With the right potting soil, watering, fertilizing and pruning, your wisteria can easily thrive in a container.
