Vinca minor, often called periwinkle or creeping myrtle, is a widely used, low-profile groundcover valued for its trailing growth habit and evergreen foliage. This plant forms a dense, attractive mat, making it highly effective for suppressing weed growth and controlling soil erosion on slopes or banks. Small, five-petaled flowers, typically blue or purple, bloom profusely in the spring and sporadically throughout the rest of the growing season. Periwinkle is a popular choice for landscaping, particularly in areas where turfgrass struggles, such as beneath mature trees or in shaded locations.
Preparing the Planting Location
Selecting the appropriate site is the first step toward establishing a healthy, lush carpet of periwinkle. While Vinca minor is adaptable, it performs best in partial to full shade, which mimics its natural understory environment. A location that receives morning sun or dappled light is ideal, but intense, direct afternoon sun can cause leaf scorch and soil dehydration.
The soil composition is equally important, as this groundcover requires good drainage to prevent root rot. Although it tolerates a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, clay heavy areas should be amended with organic materials like compost or aged manure. Before planting, the soil should be loosened to a depth of six to eight inches to encourage root establishment.
It is necessary to remove all existing weeds and turfgrass from the planting area, as Vinca minor will struggle to compete until it forms a dense mat. The best time to plant is during the milder temperatures of early spring or early fall. Planting during these seasons allows the root system to establish itself without the stress of summer heat or dry conditions.
Step-by-Step Planting Methods
The physical act of planting requires attention to spacing and depth to ensure optimal coverage and establishment. For plugs or small container plants, a spacing of 6 to 12 inches apart is recommended. Planting closer together (6-inch spacing) achieves coverage more rapidly, while wider spacing requires patience but fewer plants overall.
For container-grown stock, the planting hole should be dug approximately twice as wide as the root ball, but slightly shallower. Set the plant so the crown (where the stem meets the roots) is level with the surrounding soil surface. This placement prevents the crown from being buried, which can lead to stem rot, or sitting too high, which causes the roots to dry out.
Before placing the plant in the hole, gently loosen the outer roots, especially if they are tightly bound or circling. This encourages the roots to spread into the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the prepared soil mixture, lightly firming the area around the base of the plant to eliminate air pockets.
Post-Planting Establishment Care
Immediate and consistent hydration is paramount for the newly planted periwinkle to transition successfully. Following placement, a deep, thorough watering is necessary to settle the soil around the roots and remove air gaps. This initial saturation prevents root desiccation and promotes initial root contact with the earth.
During the first growing season, the plants require consistent moisture to encourage a robust root system. The soil should be kept evenly moist but never waterlogged, as soggy conditions lead to root rot. Check moisture by inserting a finger a couple of inches into the soil; if the top inch or two feels dry, it is time to water again.
Fertilization is generally a secondary concern, as Vinca minor can thrive even in nutrient-poor soils. If the soil is deficient, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be used after the plants show signs of new growth. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive, floppy foliage growth at the expense of strong roots and flowers. Maintaining a weed-free environment is also important until the dense groundcover mat is fully formed.