How to Plant Lantana in the Ground

Lantana is a beautiful and easy-care perennial plant that produces beautiful, colorful blooms. It is ideal for garden beds, borders, or even container gardens. Here's how to plant lantana in the ground and grow it successfully.

1. Choose a location with full sun.

Lantana thrives in full sun, so choose a location in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should be well-draining and nutrient-rich.

2. Prepare the soil.

Use a garden fork or cultivator to loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches. Remove any weeds or rocks from the area. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, into the soil to improve drainage and add nutrients.

3. Dig a hole.

Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the lantana plant. Make sure that the hole is deep enough so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

4. Plant the lantana.

Remove the lantana plant from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, gently pressing down around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly after planting.

5. Mulch the area.

Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or bark chips, around the base of the lantana plant, taking care not to cover the plant's stem.

6. Water regularly.

Water the lantana plant deeply once a week to help establish its root system. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. In hot, dry weather, you may need to water more frequently.

7. Fertilize as needed.

Lantana plants are not heavy feeders, so fertilize only as needed. Use a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) once a month during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for application rates.

8. Prune as needed.

Lantana plants benefit from pruning to promote bushy growth and abundant blooms. Prune back the plants by about one-third in early spring before new growth begins. After the first wave of blooms are spent, trim back the plant by about one-third to encourage a second wave of blooms.

In conclusion, planting lantana in the ground requires a sunny location, well-draining soil, and regular watering. With proper care, you can enjoy the beautiful blooms of lantana in your garden year after year.