Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia), also known as moneywort, is a popular, low-growing perennial used as a ground cover or in containers. Gardeners favor this plant for its vibrant, typically golden-yellow foliage and its vigorous, trailing growth habit. Its natural tendency to root easily along its stems makes multiplying this plant a simple task. A single specimen can quickly be turned into multiple plants, effectively covering large areas or filling numerous baskets.
Propagating Using Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most versatile and common method for creating new Creeping Jenny plants. Select healthy, non-flowering stems from the parent plant, aiming for segments 3 to 5 inches long. Use clean, sharp shears to make a precise cut just below a leaf node, as this is where new roots will emerge. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prevent them from rotting when placed in the rooting medium or water.
Cuttings can be rooted either in a glass of water or planted directly into soil. If using water, ensure only the bare stem is submerged; roots should form within a few weeks. For direct planting, use a well-draining, moist sterile potting mix to prevent fungal issues. Place the potted cuttings in bright, indirect light, and maintain damp soil until the new roots are robust enough for independent growth.
Propagating Through Division
Division is an effective method for thinning out large, established clumps while generating new, mature plants. The best time for division is during slower growth periods, such as early spring or early fall. Start by carefully digging up a section of the established patch, ensuring the root ball remains intact.
Once the clump is lifted, gently shake off excess soil to expose the roots and trailing stems. Separate the root ball into smaller sections using a clean knife or by pulling apart by hand. Each division must contain healthy foliage and its own established root system before being immediately replanted in a new location or container.
Propagating Via Layering
Layering capitalizes on Creeping Jenny’s tendency to root wherever its stems touch the ground. This technique involves leaving the stem attached to the mother plant while rooting occurs, providing continuous support and nutrients. Find a long, flexible stem and trace it along the ground to a suitable area of moist soil near the parent plant.
Gently pin a segment of the stem down onto the soil using a landscape pin or a small rock, ensuring the stem tip remains exposed. Lightly scratching the underside of the stem where it contacts the soil can encourage faster root development. Once the buried portion has developed a strong root system, the new plant can be severed from the parent and moved to its permanent location.
Ensuring Successful Establishment
After propagation, newly rooted plants require care to establish themselves in the garden. When transplanting, space the new plants about 12 inches apart to allow room for their rapid, horizontal spread. Creeping Jenny thrives in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade, though brighter light results in more vibrant yellow leaves.
The species prefers consistently moist conditions, so regular watering is necessary during the initial establishment phase. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, but ensure it remains well-draining to prevent root rot. Monitor the specimens for the first four to six weeks, as they focus on developing a robust root structure before accelerating visible surface growth.