How to Grow and Care for Wandflower

Plant Care

Wandflower is a tough but beautiful perennial that does extraordinarily well with very little care. It does best in full sun and well draining soil and is also known to be drought and heat tolerant and able to handle poor soils once mature. These plants are ideal for naturalized settings or informal borders, where their wild form can be appreciated.

Start planting Wandflowers in spring or in early fall. Space them 12-18 inches apart or even further to give them room to spread in their graceful, natural way. Though not heavy feeders, a light layer of compost at planting time helps establish healthy roots. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent flowers helps promote even more blooms. Allow them time to settle their first season — Wandflowers often bloom more reliably in their second year.

Light

Wandflowers thrive in full sun, where they can stretch and sway with abandon. Try to get 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Not enough sunlight will cause the plant to be floppy or to produce fewer flowers. In very hot areas, some afternoon shade can protect against heat stress, but overall, sun is key for strong stems and abundant flowers.

Soil

Gaura isn’t picky about soil and, in fact, prefers a lean, slightly sandy or loamy soil that drains well. Avoid heavy, clay soils and spots with poor drainage — overwatering can cause root rot. An approximate neutral to slightly acidic pH level of 6.0-7.0 is preferred. You can improve drainage by adding coarse sand or perlite when planting in dense soils.

Watering

Wandflowers are drought tolerant once established but like some regular water during their first year. Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, especially in prolonged heat. Be careful not to overwater — too much water can make the plant weak and susceptible to root problems. Once established, Wandflowers need very little watering except during dry spells.

Pruning

The wandflower plant is pruned to keep its shape and to encourage continued blooming. Here’s how to handle it:

• Best time to prune: Midseason and in late fall.
• What to prune: Cut back faded flower stalks by half to stimulate more blooms.
• Remove: Spent stems and any weak or broken growth.
• Tip: In late fall, cut back the entire plant to just a few inches above ground.

Bonus: Regular pruning = longer bloom time + tidier form in garden beds.

Propagating

Wandflowers can be propagated by seed or division:

• From seed: Sow outdoors in spring or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
• By division: Clumps can be divided in spring or fall, when plants are dormant.
• How to divide: Lift the plant, divide healthy root clusters and replant right away.
• Water newly planted divisions well and keep shaded until they are established.
• Note: Gaura does not appreciate being disturbed frequently,  so divide only every few years.

Growing in Pots

With their graceful habit and long bloom time, Wandflowers are attractive in pots.

• Use a pot that’s at least 12–14 inches wide with good drainage holes.
• Use a light, well draining mix - sandy or loamy is good.
• Place in full sun, rotating to maintain form.
• Water thoroughly, and let the top inch of soil dry out between watering.
• Support taller varieties with decorative stakes if they lean in the wind.

Overwintering

In the warmer zones (6 and up), Wandflower can overwinter in the ground with minimal help. In regions where winters are cold, you can cover the crowns with an inch or two of mulch after the spent stems are cut back in the fall. Avoid wet winter conditions, which can cause rot. For potted plants, bring them into a protected, frost-free area, such as an unheated garage, and water occasionally through winter.

Blooming

Wandflowers first bloom in late spring and can flower all the way into fall. The small, delicate flowers open along tall, wand-like stems and flutter in the breeze like butterflies. Colors may be white, pale pink, or rose. To keep the plant in constant bloom, trim back faded flower spikes regularly and avoid overfeeding, which can reduce flowering.

Common Issues

Wandflower is generally pest- and disease-resistant, but not completely trouble-free. Poor drainage or too much moisture are the standard issues. Space out plants to keep good airflow around them and prevent soggy conditions.

• Root rot → From too much water or heavy soil; amend soil and water less.
• Floppy growth → Typically a result of too much shade or rich soil; prune back and provide support.
• Powdery mildew → Occurs in humid conditions; improve airflow and avoid overhead watering.
• Aphids and spider mites →  Spray with water or use insecticidal soap if infestation occurs.

Summary

Wandflower is a graceful, versatile and long-blooming perennial that adds charm to any garden. Its capacity to flower in the heat of summer, sway in the breeze and thrive in difficult soil conditions makes it a favorite for gardeners wanting beauty without bother. With a bit of sun, suitable soil and a gentle hand, wandflower pays you back with months of effortless movement and bloom.