Renowned for their delicate, spidery blooms and vivid colors, spider flowers bring unique beauty and exotic appeal to gardens. Their nectar-rich blossoms attract pollinators. This in-depth guide to spider flower gardening essentials covers everything you need to successfully grow these elegant flowers.
Selecting the Optimal Site for Healthy Spider Flowers
Choosing the right location is key to growing thriving spider flowers. Consider these important factors:
Sunlight Needs
- Spider flowers require full sun exposure to thrive.
- Choose a spot receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sun daily.
- Morning sun is ideal to dry dew from foliage and prevent disease.
- Insufficient sunlight results in stretched, weak stems.
Soil Conditions
- Well-draining soil is essential to prevent fungal issues.
- Amend dense, clay soil by mixing in 2-3 inches of compost.
- Proper drainage is critical for healthy spider flowers.
Wind Protection
- Seek a site sheltered from wind, which can damage delicate blooms.
- Locate them near a fence, treeline, or structure to provide protection.
Ample Growing Room
- Allow 12-18 inches between plants to prevent overcrowding.
- Mature size reaches 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
By assessing these factors, you can optimize the growing location for vigorous spider flowers.
Selecting the Best Spider Flower Varieties
With diverse flower colors, plant heights, bloom times, and growth habits, spider flower varieties allow you to customize your garden display:
Flower Colors
- Vibrant single hues like purple, red, pink, white
- Blends and bicolors also available
- Go for colors that complement your existing garden palette
Plant Heights
- Dwarf types grow 12-24 inches tall – great for containers
- Mid-size varieties reach 2-3 feet tall
- Giant types exceed 5 feet tall – ideal for back of borders
Blooming Period
- Early, mid, and late-season varieties extend the bloom period
- Many varieties rebloom after deadheading faded flowers
Growth Habits
- Select from mounded, upright, trailing, or cascading habits
- Trailing types work beautifully in hanging baskets
Deer/Rabbit Resistance
- Some species less prone to damage from grazers
- Check with your local nursery for resistant varieties
Popular Spider Flower Varieties
- Cleome ‘Helen Campbell’ – prolific white blooms on 36-40” plants
- Cleome ‘Rose Queen’ – cherry-pink blooms early summer until frost
- Cleome ‘Violet Queen’ – rich violet-purple with dark centers
- Cleome hassleriana ‘Sparkler Mix’ – wide color range on tall, sturdy plants
Choosing varieties suited to your growing conditions and design needs is key for a thriving and visually appealing spider flower garden.
Growing Spider Flowers from Seed
Spider flowers are easily grown from seeds sown directly in prepared garden beds after the last frost. Follow these helpful tips:
Soil Preparation
- Loosen the top 2-3 inches of soil
- Mix in 2-3 inches of compost or organic matter
- Break up any clumps and rake smooth
Optimal Planting Time
- Sow seeds in late spring to early summer when soil is thoroughly warm
- Pre-soaking seeds for 12-24 hours speeds germination
Planting Depth & Spacing
- Sow seeds 1⁄4-1⁄2 inch deep
- Space seeds 12-18 inches apart in rows, clusters or groups
Germination Care
- Gently water seedlings daily until sprouted and established
- Cover with floating row cover fabric to retain moisture
Transplants for Early Blooms
- Use nursery-grown plants for earlier flowers
- Harden off and transplant after all frost risk has passed
Caring for young plants, proper planting techniques, and preparing soil gives your spider flowers the best start possible.
Spider Flower Gardening Essentials During the Season
Once planted, spider flowers need minimal care and maintenance:
Watering
- Soak thoroughly after transplanting
- Provide 1-2 inches of water per week depending on rainfall
- Avoid wetting foliage, which can promote diseases
Fertilizing
- Feed every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
- Discontinue fertilizing by mid-August
Pollination
- Gently brush flowers daily to transfer pollen for improved fruit/seed production
Staking
- Install 5-6’ tall sturdy stakes for tall varieties
- Loosely tie stems to supports to prevent toppling
Deadheading
- Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering into fall
- Prune away any leggy growth as well
Overwintering
- Spider flowers are tender annuals
- Allow some to go to seed for collecting and replanting
Division
- Divide overcrowded plants in spring every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
With attentive care and thorough watering, your spider flowers will thrive and reward you with abundant blooms.
Troubleshooting Common Spider Flower Problems
Though generally hardy, spider flowers can encounter a few pest and disease issues. Here’s how to identify and treat them:
<div class=”table-responsive”>
| Problem | Identification | Organic & Natural Treatments |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Small soft-bodied insects clustered on stems and leaves. Cause distorted growth. | Blast off with water spray. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil weekly. Introduce ladybugs or lacewings. |
| Spider Mites | Tiny pests cause yellow stippling on leaves. Webbing may be visible. | Rinse off with strong spray. Follow up with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil weekly. |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery fungal growth appears on leaves and stems. | Improve airflow. Apply neem oil or sulfur fungicides weekly as a preventative. |
| Botrytis Blight | Grey fungal spots on leaves, buds, petals. | Avoid overhead watering. Remove affected parts promptly. |
| Root Rot | Fungal disease causes wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted plants. | Plant in well-draining soil. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Discard severely infected plants. |
| Deer & Rabbits | Chewed leaves, damaged stems and flowers. | Use fencing or plant cages. Frequently apply natural repellents. Choose resistant varieties. |
</div>
Promptly treat any problems with organic methods to keep your spider flowers thriving.
Creative Uses for Gorgeous Spider Flowers
The uniquely elegant spider flowers lend themselves beautifully to gardens of all styles:
Borders and Along Paths
- Create a vertical border or edge along fences, walls, or winding paths
- Provides nice contrast to low, mounding plants
Cottage Gardens
- Combine with hollyhocks, coneflowers, daisies, bee balm and other cottage favorites
Pollinator Gardens
- Their nectar-rich blooms attract and nourish bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators
Fresh Cut Flower Arrangements
- Add intriguing height and texture to bouquets
- Vibrant blooms last 7-10 days indoors
Containers and Hanging Baskets
- Dwarf, compact, and cascading varieties are perfect for pots and baskets
Leverage the versatile form and height of spider flowers to enhance your garden’s appeal.
Expert Tips for Maximizing Spider Flower Success
Apply these spider flower gardening essentials to maximize success growing your blooms:
- Pinch or snip off young stem tips to encourage bushier, robust plants
- Mass in groups or clusters for high-impact color
- Stake tall varieties prone to flopping like Cleome hassleriana
- Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering into fall
- Include early and late bloomers to attract pollinators all season
- Remove spent seed pods to prevent unwanted self-sowing
- Start seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last spring frost for earlier blooms
- Interplant with cool weather crops like lettuce, kale and greens
Using these proven techniques will optimize the growth, blooms, and enjoyment of raising spider flowers.
FAQs: Answering Common Spider Flower Growing Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about successfully cultivating spider flowers:
What are some good compact spider flower varieties for containers?
Great petite options under 12 inches include ‘Sensation Mix’, ‘Sparkler Blush’, ‘Ruby Frost’, and ‘White Queen’.
When should I start spider flower seeds indoors?
For earlier summer blooms, start seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last expected spring frost date. Use individual peat pots.
How far apart should spider flower transplants be spaced?
Space transplants 12-18 inches apart in garden beds. Taller varieties often need 18-24 inches between plants for sufficient airflow.
How much water do established spider flowers need weekly?
Plants need 1-2 inches of water per week from rain or watering. More frequent watering may be required in hot, dry periods.
What fertilizer is optimal to feed spider flowers?
Use a soluble, balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Feed plants every 4-6 weeks during the active growing season.
Should I prune spent spider flower blooms?
Yes, deadheading spent blooms down to a leaf node promotes continuous reblooming through the season.
Can I collect and replant spider flower seeds?
Yes! Allow seed pods to fully mature and dry on the plants. Collect the seeds and store in a cool, dry place to plant next year.
How do I overwinter them in cold climates?
Spider flowers are only hardy in zones 10-11. In colder areas, collect seeds at season’s end for replanting the following spring.
With proper care, plant selection, and growing conditions spider flowers will thrive, providing unique and exotic elegance in your garden.
The Captivating Allure of Spider Flowers
It’s easy to see why gardeners cherish spider flowers for their beauty and versatility. The elegantly exotic blooms lend unique flair to beds, borders, containers, and bouquets over an extended season. As a bonus, they attract pollinators while requiring minimal care when provided with favorable growing conditions. By following the tips in this guide, you can master the art of cultivating spider flowers. Just be prepared for many compliments on your stunning floral display!
More Spider Flower Gardening Tips
Take your spider flower growing skills to the next level with these additional tips:
Starting Seeds Indoors
Get a head start on the season by sowing seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last average frost date. Here’s how:
- Use small containers like peat or jiffy pellets to avoid transplant shock
- Sow 2-3 seeds in each container, 1/4 inch deep
- Keep soil evenly moist and provide warmth for germination
- Once sprouted, thin to one seedling per container
- Harden off before transplanting outdoors after frost risk passes
Providing Support for Tall Varieties
Some spider flower varieties can grow quite tall and may require staking or trellising:
- Set sturdy 5-6 foot stakes around plants or install trellises before they reach full size
- Use soft, flexible plant ties to loosely secure stems to supports as they grow
- Take care not to damage stems when tying them
- Check ties occasionally and loosen any that become too tight
Getting the Most Blooms
Maximize the number of flowers with these tips:
- Choose a sunny, optimal growing site
- Provide adequate space for air circulation
- Plant in fertile, well-draining soil
- Water and fertilize regularly to nurture plants
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming
- Attract pollinators for better fruit and seed production
Saving Spider Flower Seeds
Preserve favorite spider flower varieties by collecting seeds each season:
- Allow seed pods to fully mature and dry on plants after flowering finishes
- Monitor drying pods and collect once they turn brown and brittle
- Place pods in a paper bag, leave open for a week or so to dry further
- Remove seeds by gently crushing pods and separating out seeds
- Store seeds in envelopes or jars in a cool, dry location until next planting season
Take advantage of these additional tips to become an expert at growing magnificent spider flowers!
Admiring the Unique Elegance of Spider Flowers
While most flowers have circular, symmetrical blooms, the intricate spider-like flowers of cleomes set them apart. As garden mainstays in Victorian times, their long-lasting vibrant colors and vertical structure have delighted gardeners for generations. Making a comeback in today’s gardens, spider flowers’ exotic elegance earns them a special spot in the hearts of flower lovers. With proper care, any gardener can cultivate a picturesque view of these iconic blooms.
