Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ is popular for its distinctive appearance and versatile uses. It features lush, emerald-green foliage with small, rounded leaves, creating a dense, carpet-like effect. Its vigorous, cascading growth makes it a favored choice for spilling over hanging baskets and containers, and it is also used as an attractive groundcover.
Essential Growing Conditions
Light Needs
Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it tolerates morning sun, shield it from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorching. Partial shade helps maintain its vibrant green foliage.
Soil Requirements
This plant performs well in well-draining, loamy soil. The ideal pH range is slightly acidic to neutral. Avoid heavy clay soils, as poor drainage can lead to root issues. For containers, use a high-quality, all-purpose potting mix for good aeration and drainage.
Watering Frequency
Keep soil consistently moist, but never waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. While established plants tolerate some drought, consistent moisture encourages vigorous growth, especially in containers.
Temperature and Humidity
Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ prefers warmer conditions, thriving between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). It is not frost-hardy, so in cooler climates, it is grown as an annual or brought indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C). The plant tolerates moderate humidity and can handle warm, dry environments once established.
Fertilization
During its active growing season, from spring through summer, Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ benefits from regular feeding. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks to support lush foliage development. A nitrogen-based fertilizer can promote green growth. This plant is a light feeder, so avoid over-fertilization, which can cause salt burn on the foliage.
Ongoing Maintenance
Pruning Practices
Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ requires minimal pruning due to its trailing habit. To encourage denser, bushier growth and maintain shape, pinch back growing tips. Trim any damaged or yellowing leaves for plant health. For groundcover, a light mow to about 3/4 inch during winter encourages compact growth and helps suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Management
Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ generally resists pests and diseases when grown in optimal conditions. However, common pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites can appear, managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot is a more common issue, often due to overwatering or poor drainage. Other fungal issues, such as leaf spot or powdery mildew, are less frequent but can occur in consistently wet environments.
Common Challenges
A frequent issue with Dichondra ‘Emerald Falls’ is root rot, appearing as yellowing, drooping, or stunted leaves, and soft, darkened roots. This condition results from excessive irrigation or poorly draining soil, leading to prolonged wetness around the roots. Addressing watering habits and improving soil drainage are direct solutions.
Stunted growth or sparse foliage may indicate a nutrient deficiency or insufficient light. While ‘Emerald Falls’ is a light feeder, consistent fertilization during the growing season supports vigorous growth. Ensuring adequate light also contributes to vigor. Browning leaf edges may result from underwatering or very low humidity, though these are less common with proper care.