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How to Grow Wichford Blue

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Wichford Blue

Veronica spicata 'Wichford Blue'

flower

Wichford Blue is a compact cultivar of speedwell (Veronica) prized for its stunning deep blue flower spikes that bloom throughout summer. This low-growing perennial forms dense mounds of narrow foliage and is excellent for borders, rock gardens, and containers. It's known for its long flowering period and low-maintenance nature.

When should you plant Wichford Blue in your zone?

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Example Wichford Blue timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Wichford Blue

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. First Wichford Blue blooms

    Mid-to-late summer

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wichford Blue dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily for best flowering
💧
Water: Moderate water needs; water regularly when soil is dry to touch. Once established, fairly drought-tolerant. Avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
📏
Spacing: 12-18 inches
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Days to maturity: Blooms first year from transplants; 8-10 weeks from seed to flowering
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Planting depth: Seeds: surface sow or lightly press into soil; Transplants: plant at same depth as root ball

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy loam or loamy soil
pH: 6.0-7.0
Amendments:
Peat moss or compost for moisture retention Perlite or coarse sand for drainage Avoid heavy clay

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 3-8, with best performance in cooler to moderate climates

3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a

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Growth Stages

1

Seedling

2-3 weeks

Tiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons and develop first true leaves; very small at 2-4 weeks

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to prevent damping off.

2

Vegetative Growth

4-6 weeks

Plant develops bushy mounding form with narrow linear foliage; no flowers yet

Water regularly, pinch tips early for bushier growth. Transplant to garden after last frost.

3

Flowering

8-12 weeks

Tall spikes of deep blue flowers emerge from foliage, typically reaching 12-18 inches tall

Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming. Water moderately; reduce in cool weather.

4

Sustained Bloom & Establishment

4-8 weeks

Plant continues flowering through summer and into early fall; fills out to full mature size

Continue deadheading. Reduce fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage. Maintain moderate watering.

5

Dormancy (Perennial)

3-5 months

Plant dies back in fall and winter; roots remain alive underground

Trim spent foliage in late fall or early spring. Add mulch in harsh climates. No watering needed.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Salvia Coreopsis Dianthus Lavender Catmint (Nepeta) Russian Sage Allium Gaillardia Sedums

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring consistently wet soil Heavy shade plants that compete aggressively Plants susceptible to mildew in poorly ventilated areas

Common Pests

  • Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Spray with sulfur or fungicide if needed. Plant in full sun.

  • Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation. Water at soil level, not foliage. Apply fungicide if severe.

  • Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering. Use well-draining soil. Remove and dispose of affected plants.

  • Increase humidity with occasional misting. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil on dry foliage.

Uses

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Edible flower garnish

Culinary

The delicate blue flower spikes can be used as an edible garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages, adding visual appeal and a subtle floral note. [source]

🎨

Cut and dried flower arrangements

Craft

The tall flower spikes dry beautifully and hold their color well, making them excellent for fresh and dried floral arrangements and crafts. [source]

🦋

Pollinator attraction

Wildlife

Wichford Blue is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens and supporting beneficial insects. [source]

🏠

Low-maintenance border plant

Household

Once established, Wichford Blue requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for borders, rock gardens, containers, and landscapes with limited water availability. [source]

💊

Traditional herbal uses

Medicinal

Veronica species have been used traditionally in herbal medicine for respiratory and digestive support, though modern clinical evidence is limited. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Wichford Blue is an ornamental flower; harvest flower spikes for fresh or dried arrangements by cutting stems just above a leaf node. Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout summer to promote continued blooming and extend the flowering season into fall.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Wichford Blue is named after the RHS Garden Wisley, where many plant varieties are developed and tested.
  • 🌱 Veronica spicata has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times in European folk medicine, earning the common name 'speedwell' due to its rapid spread and quick healing properties.
  • 🌱 The genus Veronica contains over 450 species, making it one of the most diverse genera in the Plantaginaceae family, and it's native to Europe, Asia, and North America.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Cultivar Damping Off Deadhead Full Sun Mulch Perennial Transplant True Leaves
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