Lantanas are not hardy and must therefore be kept indoors over the winter. After hibernation, the small shrub usually begins to sprout vigorously in spring, produces new leaves and soon forms numerous flower buds. But what to do if the lantana doesn't sprout as hoped but remains bare?
Why doesn't my lantana sprout and what can I do?
If the lantana does not sprout, this may be due to poor conditions in the winter quarters. To stimulate sprouting, cut the plant back slightly, place it outdoors without direct sun and use decalcified or soft water for watering.
Radiantes sometimes sprout late
Often other plants that have overwintered in the house are already full of sap and growing vigorously while the lantana is still sleeping. Carefully score the branch with your fingernail. If plant sap comes out, you can be quite sure that the lantana will soon sprout. Then you just have to be a little patient.
Bad bonds in winter quarters
The fact that the plant sprouts so late - sometimes it can be the beginning of June before the first fresh green appears - is often due to less than ideal conditions in the winter quarters. A room that is not too dark and has a constant temperature of between five and ten degrees would be ideal. The root ball of the lantana should never dry out.
Pruning stimulates sprouting
To stimulate new growth, you can cut back the lantana a little. Remove all obviously dead shoots and shorten the branches by about a third.
Moving to the open air
As long as there is no longer any risk of night frosts, you can put the lantana outside. The changed conditions often cause the plant to sprout and quickly form dense foliage. However, be sure not to place the lantana in the sun immediately. Place the small shrub in a protected place without direct sunlight for the first two weeks. If late night frosts are announced, the lantana must be brought back into the house overnight.
Tip
Lantana is somewhat sensitive to lime. Therefore, water the plant all year round with decalcified water or use soft rainwater.
