Question
I do have a greenhouse type of area in my apt. I purchased shelving unit with enclosed plastic all around the sides, top, etc., and I do grow African Violets in there year round. I have a very good light, which I purchased sometime ago that puts out enough light for the Violets to have flowers year round. So if this good enough for the African Violets, would a similar containment be adequate for the Lantana? I place 3 small ones together - take off the lower leaves and start braiding - I think I will start one, and see what happens! Thanks so much for your help!

------------------------
Followup To
Question -
I recently purchased several starting plants of the Lantana name. Now, I understand these are supposed to be outdoor plants - BUT - I did see in the same nurserie a very large Lantana (I was told)in a different are. It was huge and it was braided. What I would like to know is, how do I get this started to become this? Do I stake it now,as it is in bloom on my balcony and has numerous leaves. Then do I clip the leaves as they appear on the "trunk"? I was just thinking this may be the way to get it started - realizing of course it will take years to get it to look like the one I saw. Can you assist in the process? Thanks ahead of time for any help you can give. G.
Answer -
Hi Georgina,

Lantana is grow as an annual in zones north of Zone 8. In northern climates, it cannot withstand winter freezes and it does not get adequate light when moved indoors for the winter months. So unless you are in a warm climate, you will have to discard your Lantana when the winter approaches.

The braiding of stems is done by potting three or more young stems in close proximty in the same pot. Remove only the lowest leaves and braid them while they are still flexible. You may need to use some tape to hold them in place. Continue removing leaves and braiding the stems as the plant grows taller. This is a long process that takes lots of practice. It is usually done in greenhouses where the light is great all year round and the environment is controlled.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

If this information has been helpful, please remember to give me an AllExperts rating and nomination.  

Answer
Georgina,

I applaud your efforts. However, one of the reasons that African violets are a popular houseplant and Lantanas are not is because AV's will flower in far less light than Lantanas. I doubt that artificail light will be adequate for the Lantanas.

But, then, you never know til you try! Good luck and let me know how you make out.

Will Creed