Wisteria can take a little time to get established, especially in a garden that dries out in summer. The good news is that planting at the right time can make a big difference, as it gives the plant time to settle in before dry conditions arrive.

Getting wisteria established

When planting, mix plenty of Daltons Garden Time Compost into the existing soil to help improve moisture retention and soil condition. Choose a spot with good light. Wisteria will still grow and flower in dappled light, so it does not need full sun all day.

The most important job in your situation will be watering through the first summer, and possibly the second as well. Deep watering twice a week is essential while the plant is getting established, especially in a dry garden and where nearby trees may also be competing for moisture.

Helping it cope through summer

• Mulch around the base of the plant from late November through to early autumn to help hold moisture in the soil over the hotter months.
• Once established, wisteria generally needs very little attention apart from training onto a fence or trellis and pruning to encourage flowering wood.
• A light side dressing of Daltons Garden Time All Purpose Fertiliser in spring can also be helpful, although wisteria is usually quite vigorous once established.

A handy tip is to plant more than one type of wisteria, such as Chinese and Japanese forms, if you have the space. This can help extend the flowering season and give you a longer display.