| Increase Bloom on Trumpet Vines |
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Trumpet vines are a favorite plant for attracting hummingbirds to the garden. But lots of leaves and no flowers are a common problem for gardeners. Don’t give up; you can get this vine blooming for you and the hummingbirds to enjoy.
Make sure the plant receives plenty of sunlight. Move plants to a full sun location if needed. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers near the plant. These encourage leaf and stem growth and discourage flowers. Instead consider using a low nitrogen slow release fertilizer on this and all your plantings. It’s a good choice for all your plants' needs. And only use a blossom booster if your soil test indicates you need more phosphorous. Most garden soils are high to excessive in phosphorous and adding more can interfere with the uptake of other nutrients. A bit more information: Trumpet vines bloom on new growth and can be pruned late winter or early spring. Prune established plants yearly to control the rampant growth. Remove weak and damaged stems back to the main framework. Cut the side shoots back to two or three buds from the main stems that form the framework. If a major branch dies, prune back to the base. Then train the strongest shoot to replace it. You can renovate this vine by pruning all the growth back to 12 inches above the ground. |
Be patient. Trumpet vines need to reach maturity to flower. This can take up to five or seven years.
