Overwintering Verbena (Vervain) in Cold Climates

Keep Your Verbena Alive Through Freezing Temps

Some verbena varieties are winter-hardy, but in unpredictable climates (like Maryland), it’s wise to hedge your bets.

Three Safety Nets

1. Save seeds: Collect in fall; start indoors in February.
2. Take cuttings: Root 4-inch stem tips in water over winter; pot up in spring.
3. Mulch heavily: If left in ground, cover crown with 6–8 inches of straw or leaves after hard freeze.

Spring Division

If the plant survives, divide in early spring to rejuvenate and multiply. Verbena benefits from regular division every 2–3 years.