Question
I am about to have Lantana planted from flats on two slopes.  One slope will have the red-yellow "Radiation", while the other will have the purple Lantana.  I am told that the Lantana from the flats will grow low and spread quickly, rather than being mound shaped (if planted from container plants), is that true?  Also, is it necessary to prune it annually?  If so, when should it be done and how and how low?  Can I leave the cuttings on the ground as mulch, or should I remove it?  (I have some 3,200 square feet of slope, so I'm hoping to save some work :).  How about water?  How often and how much water?  I understand that Lantana is drought tolerant, but perhaps only after it is established?  (How long does it take?).  I'm in Pomona, California (Zone 18).  I look forward to your advice.

Michael

Answer
Hi Michael,
Thanx for you question.  I apologize for the delay in answering you.  'Radiation'is a bush-type of lantana and will reach 4 feet tall if you don't keep it pruned below that heighth.  The purple lantana tends to be low-growing in nature, probably 18 inches high and spreading to 6 feet.  Prune the plants when you want to tidy them up.  They can be pruned safely anytime but bear in mind, pruning will reduce blooming for a while.  You will need to Prune radiation regularly if you don't want it to grow to 4-5 feet tall.  The purple you can prune to keep it tidy.  Personally, I don't like to leave cuttings on the ground because to me it looks messy and can spread disease so I'm leaving that up to you.  Lantana is drought tolerant and only requires infrequent deep waterings.  I would water once a week for a couple of months.  This is the best time to plant while the weather is mild and will allow the plants to get established.  By spring, you will only need to water when it has been dry for a couple of weeks.  I hope this helps.
Tom