
The best fertilizers for Wisteria are low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus. Wisteria absorbs nitrogen from the air, and too much nitrogen prevents blooms and encourages foliage growth. Often, Wisteria only needs a light feeding with compost.
How to feed a wisteria plant?
In addition to knowing about feed for wisteria, you have to fulfill the plant's water, light and pruning requirements: Plant your wisteria in full sun and well-drained soil that's kept consistently moist (but never wet).
How long does it take for Chinese wisteria to grow?
Botanical Information. The plant is native to parts of China, and is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8. Chinese wisteria can take up to 20 years to mature enough to produce flowers, but once it has matured, this plant it is very long-lived; it can live up to 100 years.
Can You Grow Chinese wisteria on the side of a house?
Landscape Uses Because Chinese wisteria is such a vigorous grower, experts advise against letting them climb up a porch or the side of your house. Instead, let them grow on a garden arbor well away from the house. Such arbors, roofed by Chinese wisteria plants, are a perfect focal point for English cottage gardens.
See more

Should I fertilize my wisteria?
Wisteria Fertilizer Requirements Fertilize your wisteria with a low-nitrogen product once every year, or every other year. Nitrogen fertilizing does encourage growth (but remember: not too much nitrogen!), so this is a critical step.
What can I feed my wisteria to make it flower?
You can also use rose or flowering shrub fertilisers. In containers, feed wisteria with liquid tomato fertiliser, Phostrogen, Miracle-Gro or a similar flowering plant food. Alternatively you can mix controlled-release fertiliser into the compost.
What nutrients does wisteria need?
In maturity, the plant requires high levels of potassium and phosphorous. Only a soil test can let you know which of these nutrients is deficient in the soil. If the wisteria requires a dose of phosphorous, apply superphosphate, or 0-20-0 at a rate of 2 ounces per square yard of soil.
How do I get my wisteria to bloom more?
To encourage your Wisteria to flower and produce more blooms, you should focus on the plant's environment and overall health. Ensure it's getting enough sunlight, the right amount of water, and there's not too much nitrogen in the soil. Pruning your Wisteria correctly can also encourage more blooms.
Why is my wisteria all leaves and no flowers?
The most likely reason your wisteria won't bloom is due to too much nitrogen. When a wisteria plant has too much nitrogen, it will have plenty of foliage growth, but very little and maybe no blooms. Another reason for wisteria blooming problems is the environment they're growing in.
Why is my wisteria going yellow?
Overly boggy, soggy soil is not a condition that a wisteria will put up with and that excess moisture will manifest in limp, yellowing leaves that will start to fall off the plant. Check your drainage and stop watering until you can maintain proper porosity.
Is bonemeal good for wisteria?
Fertilize the wisteria in the late spring with a 0-20-0 fertilizer. This is also known as superphosphate or bone meal. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 3 to 5 pounds per 100 square feet.
How do you take care of a blue Chinese wisteria?
This Wisteria tree can grow in full sun to part shade, but more sun will provide the most blooms. While Wisteria prefer moist, well-drained, fertile soil, they are quite adaptable and even drought tolerant once established. Water deeply with a hose about 2 times weekly for the first 2 to 3 months.
What is a high potash feed?
Plants that bear flowers or fruit are likely to perform better or produce higher yields when given fertilizer that is high in potash. Fertilizers that are produced for specific plants, such as rose fertilizer and tomato fertilizer, are rich in potash and also have other minerals that these plants need.
How do you promote wisteria growth?
Grow wisteria against a sturdy wall, such as up the front of a house, in moist but well-drained soil, ideally in a south- or west-facing direction. Prune in February and again in August. Feed with a high potash fertiliser in spring to encourage flowers.
Does wisteria need a lot of water?
Since this vine is an aggressive grower, there's no need for fertilizing and being drought-tolerant, wisteria requires little watering.
What month does wisteria flower?
Wisteria rewards well, a beautiful climber flowering between April and June, and sometimes a second flush in August. Wisteria floribunda (which twines clockwise) is originally from Japan, and w. sinensis (twines anti clockwise) is from China and is the more vigorous of the two.
Why is my wisteria not blooming?
Your Wisteria could be refusing to bloom because it's too young, or it was grown from seed and will take many years to produce bloom. Care-related reasons include insufficient sunlight, soil conditions, incorrect pruning, and not enough or too much water. The last reason is out of anyone's control: late spring frost.
How do you make wisteria jelly?
0:3717:50WISTERIA JELLY.. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipEasier now guys let me tell you something the stem the leaves and then the older wisteria they haveMoreEasier now guys let me tell you something the stem the leaves and then the older wisteria they have uh little bean pods those are very poisonous you do not want to use those in your jelly.
What month does wisteria bloom?
Wisteria rewards well, a beautiful climber flowering between April and June, and sometimes a second flush in August. Wisteria floribunda (which twines clockwise) is originally from Japan, and w. sinensis (twines anti clockwise) is from China and is the more vigorous of the two.
What type of soil does Chinese wisteria like?
Soil. Chinese wisteria likes humusy, moderately fertile, and slightly acidic soil. Good drainage is key for the plant. Make sure the soil in your growing site fits the bill for this plant because it dislikes being transplanted.
How long does it take for a Chinese wisteria to grow?
Chinese wisteria can take up to 20 years to mature enough to produce flowers. But it also tends to be very long-lasting, living up to 100 years. Botanical Name. Wisteria sinensis. Common Name. Chinese wisteria. Plant Type. Deciduous perennial vine. Mature Size.
Why is Chinese wisteria considered an invasive species?
In fact, in many parts of North America, the plant is regarded as an invasive species due to its ability to spread with vigor. Chinese wisteria sends out runners that can quickly overwhelm nearby plants and structures.
How cold can wisteria grow?
Chinese wisteria can withstand temperatures down to around minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit. But its buds might die in prolonged cold, causing the plant to flower less. This plant likes high humidity but can grow in drier climates as long as its soil remains moist.
When do Chinese wisterias bloom?
Chinese wisteria ( Wisteria sinensis) is a deciduous perennial vine with a twining growth habit. Like all members of the wisteria group, Chinese wisteria is a stunning bloomer. From May to June, it bears large, drooping clusters of fragrant flowers that are typically a bluish-purple.
Is Japanese wisteria invasive?
Like Chinese wisteria, the Japanese species is known to be invasive in North America. Its flowers are considerably more spectacular and it requires more sun than Chinese wisteria. American wisteria is a smaller species, growing only two-thirds as long as the Chinese and Japanese species.
Can you prune wisteria in winter?
For instance, you can apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer, which can promote blooming. You also can try heavily pruning the plant right after it blooms and again in the winter to encourage more buds. Wisteria can be subject to leaf-chewing insects, but the damage is rarely serious. There are no notable disease issues.
How many varieties of wisteria are there?
There are at least 10 varieties of wisteria but most gardens contain one of three types. Chinese wisteria (Wisteria siensis) can grow to 90 to 100 feet long and the flowers appear before the leaves on 9 to 12 inch racemes (clusters). Japanese wisteria (W. floribunda) is a smaller plant, topping out at about 30 feet and blooming as ...
How big does a Japanese wisteria grow?
American wisteria (W. frutescans) is much less robust and aggressive, usually grows about 25 to 30 feet long with 9-inch flower racemes. Amethyst Falls, the most common variety currently found in ...
Can you fertilize wisteria?
It can be tempting to fertilize wisteria, but it’s not advised. While most plants need nitrogen, it encourages leafy growth, not flowers. So feeding wisteria nitrogen increases the size of the plants, but not its number of blooms; in fact, it could stunt the plant’s blooming. (GETTY IMAGES)
Do wisterias bloom?
Some wisteria plants never bloom. Yet another consideration is lighting; wisteria need sunlight to bloom. Note that I said to bloom, not to grow. You can get a huge vine, covered with leaves but without adequate light, no flowers. Pruning is something else to consider.
Is nitrogen good for wisteria?
However, as with most other things in life, it is only good in moderation and in the case of wisteria, never. Nitrogen encourages leafy growth, not flowers, so adding nitrogen increases the size of the plant but not its number of blooms.
How long does a wisteria vine grow?
However, wisteria is known for growing rapidly and taking over the local planting area. The vines can reach lengths of up to 75 to 100-feet in length, and the vine gets heavy, especially when it starts to flower. Wisteria is a seeking plant, and it will work its way into any nook or cranny thy find.
What is a wisteria vine?
Wisteria is a vine that produces cascades of purple to bluish flowers during the late spring and summertime. These vines make a spectacular addition to your pergola or patio, providing a visual element that enhances your yard’s living areas.
What diseases do wisterias have?
Here’s a quick list of pests and diseases to look for on your wisteria vines. Dieback and leaf spot. Crown gall and root rot. Viral and fungal diseases, like mildew and mold.
What diseases can be found on vines?
Viral and fungal diseases, like mildew and mold. Insects like Japanese beetles, aphids, mealybugs, and leaf miners. Scale growing on the vines. Use organic pesticides and fungicides to remove disease from your plants, and check the plants each day until they return to health.
What to do if your pet eats a flower?
If your pets or children consume the seeds or the flowers, rush them to the emergency room and call the poison control hotline for advice while you’re driving to the hospital.
Can wisteria be planted near a house?
Wisteria is a seeking plant, and it will work its way into any nook or cranny thy find. Therefore, we recommend that you avoid planting wisteria near to your home, as the vines can become problematic for homeowners. If the plant scales your wall, it might reach the roof, causing damage to the structure.
Where are wisteria native to?
Wisteria species native to the United States include; Kentucky wisteria (Wisteria macrostachya) and American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens). Both of these varieties are native to America and make a suitable alternative to the Asian types.
Can You Keep Wisteria In a Container?
When planted in the ground, Wisteria takes little to no input from the gardener. And though Wisteria kept in a container does require a bit of extra care, it is possible to grow this stunning plant in a pot.
Should You Keep Your Wisteria In a Pot or Not?
If you’ve had your eye on a Wisteria but can’t decide whether it should be kept in a container or planted directly into the ground, there are a few things you should consider before making the decision. Below you’ll find a list of the pros and cons of keeping your Wisteria in a planter.
What Type of Wisteria Grows In Containers?
The Wisteria most frequently spotted in gardens are Wisteria ( Wisteria floribunda ), Chinese Wisteria ( Wisteria sinensis ), and Silky Wisteria ( Wisteria brachybotrys ). These are vigorous and quick-growing Wisteria, but they can still be grown in containers.
Where To Place Your Wisteria
Your Wisteria can thrive in a container if put in an area where it will be exposed to the proper outdoor conditions. As with most plants, the main thing to consider when choosing the perfect location is how much light the Wisteria will receive. For best results, place your Wisteria somewhere it gets full sun.
The Best Pot to Use for Wisteria
Wisterias develop a large, strong root system. In fact, the root system is so substantial that it can damage a house’s foundation over time if it is planted too close to your home. So, what pot should you use to contain this monster grower?
The Best Soil For Container Wisterias
In the ground, Wisterias need well-drained, fertile soil. The same holds true for Wisteria in containers. Use a potting mix that contains compost, peat moss, and perlite to provide adequate drainage but still retains enough moisture for the vine’s needs.
Caring For Wisteria in Containers
While there are a few extra steps to growing Wisteria in a container, a couple of upsides make it worth the work. Wisteria in a pot is easier to control, won’t damage your foundation, and can be moved (as long as it isn’t vining up something immovable.)
How to propagate wisteria?
However, if you want a challenge, take softwood cuttings in mid spring. Cut lengths of new stem of about 15cm long, removing from the parent plant above a leaf joint. Cut the material back to about 10cm, just below a leaf joint.
Which way does wisteria grow?
There are many species of wisteria but the two most popular are Wisteria sinensis and Wisteria floribunda. Wisteria sinensis grows in an anticlockwise direction and Wisteria floribunda clockwise. When buying a wisteria ensure you buy a plant that has been raised by grafting.
How long does it take for a grafted wisteria to grow?
Grafted plants can take up to five years to flower. Most nurseries only offer grafted wisterias for sale. Wisteria has incredibly strong and woody stems and in time the trunks can become as thick as small tree trunks – it’s not a climbing plant for a delicate trellis.
How long does it take for wisteria to bloom?
Wisterias take time to flower; expecting flowers before the plant is four years old may be unrealistic. Wisterias that are grown from seed can take up to 20 years to flower but these are rarely, if ever, sold. Here, David Hurrion offers advice on locating, pruning and feeding your wisteria, for maximum blooms.
Which wisteria has the longest pendant?
Wisteria floribunda ‘Multijuga’ (pictured) – of all the wisterias this has the longest pendants of flowers. Lilac flowers that appear with the leaves in June. Reaches a height of 9m. Wisteria floribunda ‘Kuchi-beni’ – mauve-pink flowers in June with the foliage. Floribunda types are not as vigorous as others.
Can a wisteria plant move?
The ideal support is a solid wall with strong galvanised wires to support the plant. Wisteria plants are almost impossible to move once settled, so make sure you can provide them with the space and support they require.
Can wisteria be grown in a pot?
Wisterias can be grown in containers but they will never be as successful as those planted in the garden. Ideally, only plant wisteria in a pot if you’re training the plant as a standard tree. Choose the largest container you can find and use a good tree and shrub compost. Water well and feed in spring.
Where is Alan Titchmarsh's Wisteria Garden?
Wisteria tunnel in full bloom at Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan Credit: Alamy Stock Photo.
Can wisteria be grafted?
Plants that aren’t grafted and have been propagated by layering or cuttings can be irritatingly flower shy; there are ways to encourage blooming in older reluctant plants. Wisteria needs a sunny wall. Don’t waste your time giving it a wall facing north or east.
Where is the gateway to paradise?
Gateway to paradise: the wisteria-clad entrance to Dunsborough Park at Ripley, Surrey. Of the many varieties available, I particularly favour the old favourite Macrobotrys, which has flower trails that can be about 2ft long.
Is it a slow start to spring?
There’s a lot to be said for a slow start to spring. Yes, it’s frustrating to wait so long for floral joys after a cold, wet and snowy winter, when army-blanket skies were the order of the day, week after week, month after month. However, late springs reduce the risk of premature growth that can often be severely burned by late frosts.

Culture
Appearance
- Chinese wisteria, like all members of the wisteria group, is a stunning bloomer, bearing large, drooping clusters of fragrant flowers, usually bluish-purple, lavender, or mauve in color. Bloom time is usually mid-spring to early summer. A few kinds bear white blooms, such as silky wisteria (W. brachybotrys \"Shiro-kapitan\"). W. sinensis \"Alba\" also bears white flowers.
Cultivation
- Chinese wisteria is a vigorous climber that can easily grow to 25 feet. Trellises and other supports must be very sturdy because the mature vines are very heavy and can break apart flimsy supports. The flowers are rabbit-proof (rabbits tend not to eat any part of the plant, in fact). This plant is deer-resistant, as well. Chinese wisteria is part of the pea family, as evidenced by the velvety see…
Management
- Wisteria needs very little in the way of care, other than frequent and vigorous pruning to keep the vines under control. The plant will send out runners that can quickly overwhelm nearby structures. Feeding is usually unnecessary for this plant, but regular watering is recommended. If you have trouble getting the vines to flower (this plant's most ...
Treatment
- To train wisteria vines, choose a single upright stem to attach to a vertical support, then religiously remove any side shoots as they appear, forcing the plant into upward growth. Pruned correctly, wisteria will form a beautiful overhead shade canopy. Once the plant reaches the height you want, vigorously trim the tips of the plant to stunt its further growth.
Toxicity
- In much of North America, particularly on the east coast where conditions resemble that of the plant's native environment in China, Wisteria sinensis is listed among invasive plants. All parts of the plant contain a toxin known as wisterin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea; growers should be wary of pets and children eating the flowers or seed pods.
Varieties
- A subspecies, Kentucky wisteria (Wisteria frutescens var. macrostachya), is sometimes considered an entirely different species. Another native alternative for Americans is W. macrostachys (\"Blue Moon\" is a popular cultivar).