Everything You Need to Know About Growing Veronica Spicata (Spiked Speedwell)

If you are looking to add a burst of vibrant, violet-blue color to your garden, Veronica Spicata, also known as Spiked Speedwell, is an excellent choice. This easy-growing perennial is a favorite among gardeners for its striking spikes of long-lasting flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. With more than 500 species within the Veronica genus, Veronica Spicata stands out as a versatile and beautiful addition to any landscape.

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Why Choose Veronica Spicata?

Veronica Spicata is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in rock gardens, along foundations, and in border beds. Its vibrant flowers attract butterflies and bees, while deer and rabbits tend to steer clear. This plant is not only visually appealing but also functional for pollinators in your garden.

Key Features of Veronica Spicata:

Showy spikes of violet-blue flowers
Easy-growing and low-maintenance
Attracts butterflies and bees
Resistant to deer and rabbit damage

Veronica Spicata Care Tips

Taking care of Veronica Spicata is relatively easy, making it a suitable choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Here are some essential care tips to help your Spiked Speedwell thrive:

Light:

Veronica Spicata thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Soil:

Ensure well-drained, loamy soil for optimal growth.
Amend poor or clay soil with compost before planting.
Regularly add a layer of compost around the plant for nutrients.

Water:

While mature plants are drought-resistant, young plants require regular watering.
Provide about one inch of water per week for best results.

Temperature and Humidity:

Spiked speedwell is tolerant of various climate conditions but should be protected from strong winds.

Fertilizer:

Veronica Spicata blooms well without frequent feeding.
Consider fertilizing annually or every other year for optimal growth.

Types of Veronica Spicata

Veronica Spicata includes several popular cultivars, each offering unique characteristics and visual appeal. Here are some varieties to consider for your garden:

Veronica Spicata ‘Glory’
Veronica Spicata ‘Giles Van Hees’
Veronica Spicata ‘Icicle’
Veronica Spicata ‘Sunny Border Blue’
Veronica Spicata ‘Rotfuchs’ (Red Fox)

In addition to these varieties, other Veronica species like V. longifolia ‘Sunny Border Blue’ and V. teucrium ‘Royal Blue’ also make excellent garden plants.

Pruning and Propagating Veronica Spicata

To ensure healthy growth and abundant blooming, consider the following pruning and propagating techniques for Veronica Spicata:

Pruning:

Deadhead faded flower spikes during the bloom season to encourage branching.
Cut back foliage after the first frost to maintain plant health.

Propagating:

Divide plants every three to four years to keep them vigorous.
Take softwood cuttings for propagation in late spring or summer.

Growing Veronica Spicata from Seed

While Veronica Spicata is primarily propagated through division or cuttings, growing from seed is also an option. Sow seeds directly in the garden during spring to mid-summer for germination in two to three weeks. Self-seeding may occur naturally, or you can collect seed heads for controlled planting.

Potting and Overwintering Tips

For container gardening enthusiasts, taller varieties of Veronica Spicata can serve as stunning focal points in your garden. Remember to consider the following tips for potting and overwintering your Spiked Speedwell:

Potting:

Use well-draining soil in pots and provide stake support for tall blooms.
Avoid frequent transplanting to protect the plant’s root system.

Overwintering:

Reduce watering during winter to prevent waterlogging.
Shield the plant from excessive precipitation and moist soil to ensure survival.

Common Pests and Maintenance

Despite its resilience, Veronica Spicata may attract pests like snails, slugs, and aphids. To manage these pests, consider using bait for snails and slugs and neem oil for aphids. Regular maintenance, including pruning and watering, will help your plant thrive for years to come.

In conclusion, Veronica Spicata (Spiked Speedwell) is a versatile and vibrant perennial that adds beauty and pollinator-friendly benefits to your garden. By following these care tips and techniques, you can enjoy a flourishing display of violet-blue flowers from late spring through early summer. Whether you plant it in rock gardens, border beds, or containers, Veronica Spicata is sure to enhance your outdoor space with its long-lasting blooms and easy-growing nature.