Left to their own devices, Lantanas usually grow into bushy shrubs. While that’s great for some, many gardeners prefer a more elegant look. That’s why you’ll often see “Lantana trees” (or standards) at the nursery. The catch? They can be pretty pricey! If you want that high-end look without the boutique price tag, training your own Lantana into a tree form is a fun and rewarding DIY project.
Pick the Right Candidate
To grow a healthy Lantana standard, you need to start with the right “bones.” Look for a plant that already has a strong, sturdy, and relatively straight main stem. This stem is going to be the backbone of your tree, so choose the best one from your collection to give yourself a head start.
Be Ruthless with Side Shoots
Once you’ve picked your star plant, it’s time to get to work. Your goal is to clear away all the side branches from the main stem. The only exception? Leave the top three or four shoots alone—these will eventually branch out to form the lush, flowering “canopy” of your tree. Moving forward, you’ll need to be diligent about pinching off any new growth that tries to pop up along the trunk.
Give it Some Support
In the beginning, that main stem won’t be strong enough to hold up a heavy crown of flowers on its own. To keep it from snapping or leaning, stake it with a sturdy bamboo pole. Use some soft garden tie tape or flexible tree ties to secure the stem to the stake; this gives it the stability it needs to grow tall and strong.
Shape the Canopy
Training a tree takes a little patience and regular maintenance. Besides keeping the trunk clear, you’ll want to frequently prune the tips of the top branches. This “pinching” encourages the plant to branch out more, resulting in a much fuller, denser, and more professional-looking crown.
When it comes to Lantana care while training a standard, keep these steps in mind:
- Start with a strong, straight plant.
- Consistently remove all lower side shoots.
- Stake the main stem for support.
- Regularly prune the top growth to create a bushy crown.
