Creeping Jenny, known scientifically as Lysimachia nummularia, is a versatile plant prized for its vibrant chartreuse to golden foliage. This low-growing perennial serves effectively as a dense groundcover, a graceful trailing accent in containers, or even as an aquatic plant along pond edges. Its vigorous growth habit and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for adding a splash of color and texture to various garden settings. This article provides guidance on successfully propagating and caring for Creeping Jenny plants.
When to Propagate Creeping Jenny
The most opportune time to propagate Creeping Jenny is during spring or early summer. This period aligns with the plant’s active growth cycle, supporting faster root development and establishment. Warmer temperatures contribute to higher success rates.
While outdoor propagation is most successful then, indoor propagation can occur year-round. Even indoors, mimicking ideal outdoor conditions like ample light and warmth enhances success. Initiating propagation when the plant is growing vigorously yields the best results.
How to Propagate Creeping Jenny
Stem Cuttings
Propagating Creeping Jenny from stem cuttings is a straightforward method with a high success rate. Select healthy, non-flowering stems 4 to 6 inches long from a mature plant. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node, as these nodes contain root-forming cells. Remove leaves from the bottom 1 to 2 inches to prevent rot.
For water propagation, place cuttings in a glass of fresh water, ensuring defoliated nodes are submerged. Position in a bright location away from direct sunlight, changing water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. Roots typically emerge within one to three weeks. Once roots are about an inch long, plant in soil.
For soil propagation, prepare a well-draining potting mix, such as peat moss and perlite. Insert the bottom 1 to 2 inches of each cutting into moist soil, burying at least one node. Rooting hormone is optional. Place potted cuttings in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent soil moisture. Creating a humid environment, by covering pots with a clear plastic bag or dome, improves success. Periodically remove the cover for air circulation and to prevent fungal issues. Roots generally form within two to four weeks.
Division
Division is an effective method for propagating mature or overgrown Creeping Jenny plants, especially when repotting or transplanting. This technique creates multiple new plants and rejuvenates the parent. The best time for division is spring or early summer.
To divide, carefully dig up the entire plant, keeping the root ball intact. Gently shake off excess soil to expose the root system. Use hands or a sharp, clean knife to separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each has healthy roots and stems. Avoid tearing the plant to minimize stress.
Replant each new section immediately into its desired location, whether in the ground or containers. Ensure the planting depth is similar to the parent plant. Water newly planted divisions thoroughly to settle the soil. This method provides established plant material, often leading to quicker growth than cuttings.
Care for Young Creeping Jenny Plants
After propagation, proper care ensures successful establishment and robust growth. Initially, young plants, especially those from cuttings, benefit from bright, indirect light to avoid scorching. As they mature, gradually introduce them to more direct sunlight; they thrive in full sun to partial shade.
Consistent moisture is important as young plants develop root systems. Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Check soil moisture daily, especially during warmer periods, and water thoroughly when the top inch feels dry. Good drainage in the planting medium is also important to prevent standing water.
Once young plants develop a robust root system and show active new growth, they are ready for transplanting into their final location, such as a garden bed, hanging basket, or pond margin. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every few weeks during the growing season to support vigorous growth once established.