What Could Be Hindering My Wisteria From Blooming?
“I planted a wisteria vine a few years back, and each year, leaves grow, but the plant fails to bloom. Can you tell me why my wisteria isn’t flowering?” he inquiries.
Birds & Blooms
Reader Barbara Mall from Dingman’s Ferry, Pennsylvania.
According to gardening expert Melinda Myers, “A frequent complaint among gardeners cultivating wisteria is poor blooming. The solution lies in being patient; these plants require several years to reach maturity and produce flowers. Excessive nitrogen can hinder blossoming and promote excessive vegetative growth.”
vine growth
So reduce fertilization and opt for a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer if you think wisteria requires additional nutrients.
For gardeners in the north, the climate presents an extra hurdle—as Chinese and Japanese wisteria vines withstand frost well, severe winter chill might destroy their flower buds. Established plants often only produce blooms following milder winters. Given that you cannot dictate the weather, expect to appreciate stunning leaves during most growing seasons instead.
Or consider using Kentucky wisteria (
Wisteria macrostachya
I’ve observed this blooming in Zone 4; the blooms are smaller and develop on new growth. Although not as spectacular, it offers greater reliability.
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Select Native Wisteria for Enhanced Flowering
“My wisteria boasts lush leaves, yet fails to produce flowers. During early summer, tiny spherical fruits start appearing instead. What could be the issue?” queries reader Bev Lutkenhaus from Calmar, Iowa.
Melinda states, “Those tiny berries are probably flower buds. Factors such as late spring frost, inconsistent temperatures, and excessively dry soil can stop the buds from blooming or lead them to fall off the plant entirely.”
It’s likely that you’re cultivating either Chinese or Japanese wisteria, which are types of Asian wisteria. These species may require over 15 years before they produce their first flowers.
can be invasive
in some states.
Gardeners in the Midwest typically find more success when cultivating American wisteria (
Wisteria frutescens
). Although it might not be as impressive as the Asian wisterias since the flowers come out alongside the leaves, it tends to bloom more consistently.
Plant American wisteria in full sunlight with robust structural support in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. This vine attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees.
long, fragrant vines
When it flowers in spring, American wisteria also acts as a host plant for larvae of various skipper butterflies.
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When to Prune Wisteria
“I’ve got wisteria growing around my pergola, and I’m struggling to keep up with pruning it! Is there anything I can do to reduce its rapid growth?” queries reader Mary Beth Rechichar from Grindstone, Pennsylvania.
Melinda states, “Should this be a Chinese or Japanese wisteria (
Wisteria sinensis
and
Wisteria floribunda
, respectively) they are both invasive in your state and numerous other states. Take this into account
removing the plant
To avoid the necessity of pruning and the danger of it invading adjacent natural areas where it can climb, strangle, and ultimately kill trees.
The native wisteria (
Wisteria frutescens
It is less assertive yet remains an energetic climber. Yearly, modest trimming can assist in controlling well-established specimens. As these vines produce blooms on fresh shoots, you may trim them during their inactive phase and still enjoy blossoms. Refrain from over-pruning and avoid excess fertilizing as both can lead to overly robust development.”
Did you know
With judicious trimming, fragrant wisteria can be cultivated as a climbing vine, bush, or petite tree.
Stop Birds From Feasting on Wisteria Flowers
“For the first time this past year, my 6-year-old wisteria was covered with flowers! Can anything be done to prevent the birds from feasting on these beautiful blooms so I can appreciate them as well?” queries reader Carmen Fraser from Brooklin, Ontario.
Melinda remarks, “Congrats! Your perseverance with the wisteria has been rewarded. While netting can be awkward and not very appealing, it often works well for safeguarding the flowers. Alternatively, consider using deterrents such as spinning pinwheels, noisy pots, discarded CDs, or tiny mirrors placed around your plant. For optimal outcomes, set up these protective measures prior to when the birds start visiting, and switch up the types and positions of your bird-scaring techniques.”
About the Expert
Melinda Myers
is the designated gardening expert for
Birds & Blooms
She is a television and radio presenter, writer, and syndicated columnist who has authored over 20 gardening books. Melinda obtained her master’s degree in horticulture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
