Wisteria is a total showstopper, but if you really want to turn heads, try growing it as a “standard” (that’s gardener-speak for a little tree form). It looks absolutely stunning, but keeping that manicured look requires a bit of know-how. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your wisteria tree thriving in your own backyard paradise.
What Makes a Wisteria Standard Special?
Unlike its wild, climbing cousins that want to take over your entire house, a wisteria tree is trained to stay at a specific height. This makes it a fantastic option if you’re working with a smaller space. You can keep it in a large pot on the patio or make it a focal point in a flower bed.
However, these little trees are a bit more high-maintenance than the vines. To keep that classic “tree” shape, you’ll need to stay on top of pruning. They also have a big appetite—if you want those iconic, cascading blooms, you’ve got to make sure the soil is packed with nutrients. And of course, picking the perfect spot is key to a happy plant.
How to Care for Your Wisteria Tree
Wisteria loves soil that is loose, well-draining, and rich. A mix of potting soil and sand usually does the trick. You want to keep the soil consistently moist, but be careful—wisteria hates “wet feet.” If the water sits and gets stagnant, you’re looking at root rot, which can kill the plant pretty quickly. During the growing season, you’ll definitely want to fertilize to keep it energized.
Quick Tips for Fertilizing:
- Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer (too much nitrogen gives you leaves but no flowers!).
- Stop fertilizing once fall hits so the plant can go dormant.
- Start your feeding routine again in the spring when you see new growth.
To keep that tree shape looking sharp, pruning is non-negotiable. For the first three years, you’ll focus on training cuts to establish the trunk and canopy. After that, just make sure to snip off any shoots that pop up along the trunk and trim the canopy to keep it symmetrical. Stick to these steps, and your wisteria tree will be the envy of the neighborhood!
