Evergreen Wisteria: Non-Invasive Alternative To Wisteria

Tired of dealing with the aggressive nature of traditional wisteria? Try planting Callerya reticulata, or evergreen wisteria vine for a change. While wisteria vines bring to mind tall plants with graceful hanging blooms, it can outgrow its intended space. A smaller, more practical form of wisteria may be your best bet.

Soil & Fertilizer Needs

Evergreen wisteria plants (Callerya reticulata) grow best in rich, loam soils. Soil that remains consistently moist throughout the season is ideal and is beneficial to the plant’s overall health and production of flowers.

Evergreen wisteria vines benefit from routine fertilization. Liquid foliar sprays are especially effective throughout the plant’s flowering period. Slow-release granular fertilizers are yet another option and are best applied in early spring.

Water & Light Requirements

Evergreen wisteria plants should not be allowed to dry completely between waterings. This is especially important in regions that experience excessive heat or arid conditions. Weekly irrigation using drip irrigation system or soaker hoses may be needed to ensure that water is delivered deep into the plant’s root zone. These species will perform best when situated in beds that receive full sun throughout the day. Though the plant will tolerate some shade, less-than-ideal conditions may diminish their bloom.

Evergreen Wisteria Support

Callerya reticulata is a broadleaf evergreen climbing vine that can reach 16.5 feet (5 m.) so training it on a plant support system is necessary if you are not pruning it to keep it compact. Established wisteria vines need little additional care from growers. Spreading quickly, gardeners will need to make certain that the plants are able to vine over strong, secured supports. Common structures for wisteria include trellises, arbors, and pergolas.

Pruning Evergreen Wisteria

Evergreen wisteria vines are frequently pruned to develop a more shrub-like appearance. This is especially helpful when the plant is grown in small spaces or containers. Routine pruning helps to promote new growth, and branching, which will result in more robust plants. Though the plant is considered to be evergreen within its hardiness region, it is deciduous in other regions and, in winter, may be damaged by harsh conditions. Dead or broken stems should be removed promptly in early spring before active growth resumes.

Evergreen Wisteria Propagation

There are several options available for multiplying numbers of evergreen wisteria within their landscape. One of the most common ways is by allowing the plant to produce seed rather than deadheading the blooms. Though evergreen wisteria seeds are known to germinate readily, the process requires some patience. In most instances, several growing seasons are needed before new plants can begin flowering. Evergreen wisteria can also be propagated through cuttings. To take cuttings, simply remove a small segment of the plant’s stem. Green growth will root readily after being placed into trays filled with moist growing medium. Under ideal conditions, gardeners can expect rooting to begin within several weeks.

Problems, Pests, & Diseases

Though evergreen wisteria plants seldom have problems with insects or diseases, careful observation will help to diagnose and treat any potential issues. Foliar diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew are the most common. Fortunately, routine garden sanitation practices can help diminish the impact of these problems. Smaller pests, like aphids or whiteflies, may also frequent the plant, however, these insects are seldom a cause for concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

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