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Leaning lavatera

WildlifeloverWildlifelover Posts: 380
in Problem solving
I popped a small lavatera olbia rosea into a large barrel in the spring (it was previously in a bought 2 ltr pot) and it has grown massively but is leaning very badly. It is planted on the eastern side of the garden, receiving around 8 hours of sun a day. 

Could the leaning be due to the conifers behind the barrel or something else? The plant was straight upon planting it.

is there anything I can do to rectify this leaning?

Many thanks.


Posts

  • PlantmindedPlantminded Posts: 3,580
    Hi there, Lavateras do have a strong tendency to grow towards the sun.  You could try turning the barrel around so that the plant attempts to straighten up but this would only be a temporary solution.  The best thing to do is to place it in the sunniest part of your garden, preferably in the ground, where the entire plant gets the full benefit of the sun.  If this is not possible, you could try some reconstructive pruning and then tie the main stems to a series of stakes while it strengthens up into your desired shape.  They are very attractive plants and respond quickly to pruning without a dramatic loss in flowering capability if done carefully. 





    Wirral. Sandy, free draining soil.


  • WildlifeloverWildlifelover Posts: 380
    Thanks. Our garden is south facing but I’m not sure I can fit it in anywhere else - I’ll have to have a good think. 

    In terms of pruning, it’s just about to flower. If I do move it, should I wait till it’s flowered or do it before it fully blooms? Also, if I prune it, how much should I remove?

     Thanks.
  • PlantmindedPlantminded Posts: 3,580
    They are pretty robust plants and will continue to flower if you move the pot or replant into a better position.  If you decide to prune, I'd suggest that you leave at least two thirds of the main flowering branches in place and tie them into an upright position with stakes, removing some of the weaker less upright branches selectively (ie either wholly or partially) to obtain a better shape.
    Wirral. Sandy, free draining soil.


  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    With the best will in the world - they're floppy plants and need supports put in early on. 
    You can only stick some canes in now and tie in the bigger stems to give enough security, but without other shrubs or a good support earlier in the year, it's difficult to do it now without them just looking trussed up. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • WildlifeloverWildlifelover Posts: 380
    Ok, thanks. Looking ahead, do I cut it back in autumn/spring? If so, how much do I cut back?
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