Verbascum ‘June Johnson’

Description

Verbascum ‘June Johnson’ is a semi-evergreen perennial admired for its downy grey-green foliage and tall spires of deep pink flowers softly flushed with peach. Furthermore, its upright form brings height and long-lasting colour to sunny borders and mixed perennial plantings.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Plant Verbascum ‘June Johnson’ when the soil is workable and beginning to retain gentle warmth. During this time, roots establish efficiently and, as a result, the plant settles quickly before producing strong flowering stems.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a position in full sun. Adequate light, therefore, encourages sturdy growth and richly coloured flower spikes on Verbascum ‘June Johnson’.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Improve heavier ground with grit or compost to support healthy root development and prevent excess moisture.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth to give roots plenty of space.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost and fine grit into the excavated soil to enhance drainage and structure.
3. Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball sits level with the soil surface, then backfill and firm gently.
4. Water After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and support early establishment of Verbascum ‘June Johnson’.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Consequently, this encourages deeper root growth and improves stability.
• Dormant Period: Reduce watering once growth slows, allowing Verbascum ‘June Johnson’ to follow its natural growth rhythm.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a light, balanced fertiliser to encourage fresh foliage and strong flower stems.
• Mid-Season: Additionally, a gentle supplementary feed can help maintain flowering performance through summer.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes regularly to prolong blooming and keep plants tidy. This also redirects energy back into Verbascum ‘June Johnson’.
• Foliage Care: Leave the basal rosette intact, as it supports the plant’s structure and health.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a thin organic mulch to suppress weeds and improve soil structure.
• Protective Mulch: Keep mulch light and free-draining to avoid excess moisture around the crown.

Final Tips

Verbascum ‘June Johnson’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that thrives in bright, well-drained positions. Plant it where its height can be fully appreciated, avoid waterlogged soil, and Verbascum ‘June Johnson’ will reward you with elegant flower spires from early to late summer.