Are you looking to learn how to grow Periwinkle from cuttings? If you need a ground cover then Periwinkle is the answer to your prayers.
While on an outdoor hike, you’ve probably seen these small plants covering the ground. Native to Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia, there are slight variations in this plant species, confusing many.
The Periwinkle Plant Profile
As a fairly popular ground cover, a periwinkle is known for its creeping habit. This plant goes by its more common names such as creeping myrtle, dwarf Periwinkle, and vinca minor, to name a few.
This plant grows low in the ground and has the ability to spread quickly. Its flowers come in different colors (blue, lavender, purple, and white). By maturity, it can reach up to 6 inches tall with vines trailing as long as 18 inches.
Landscape uses
These plants are usually planted beneath large trees. The primary reason for this is many other plant species have trouble thriving in areas where sunshine does not reach. Compared to grass, Periwinkle is ideal for these conditions.
Also, the roots of large trees take up the moisture in these areas, so most plants will have a low survival chance. As Periwinkle is drought-tolerant, it would be a good option for this type of landscape.
Periwinkle propagation
Common Periwinkle can be propagated in many ways. You can choose to do the propagation through division, which is the fastest way, or through stem cuttings and seed, which may work better.
Cuttings
One way to propagate is through stem cuttings. An hour before taking cuttings from new growth, give the Periwinkle enough water. Snip off about 4 to 6 inches long, taking only the stem and at least 3 sets of leaves, minus the flowers and the bottom half leaves.
Dip the severed end in rooting hormone talc, and insert 1 perennial periwinkle into a pot prefilled with a mixture of equal sand, perlite, and peat moss. More importantly, keep the sand mixture moist daily.
In order for the leaves to stay hydrated, mist each Periwinkle twice a day. Check the leaves’ underside and the roots after a month, ready for transfer to potting soil. Afterward, move outdoors into a shaded area.
Once the Periwinkle shows signs of renewed growth, transplant it into a well-drained garden bed, either with the sun or full shade. Spacing should be 3 to 5 feet apart. Lastly, water heavily to care for newly formed roots.
Division
Aside from cutting, dividing is also a popular option. The best time to divide would be in the fall since periwinkles blossom in the spring. Take note, though, that you need to choose a cool day to do this and give them enough water before dividing them.
Seeds
This is by far the hardest out of the 3 options. Using hybrid seeds will enable you to experiment with differing flower colors and plant forms. This method also lets you produce numerous plants at one time.
The Many Benefits of Greenhouse Gardening
Are you planning to set up your own hobby, mini, or semi pro greenhouse? If you are, then you’re setting yourself up for a better gardening experience. Check out some of the many benefits of greenhouse gardening:
Protection from bad weather conditions
Weather can be unpredictable because it’s possible to have a really hot day in October or a cool and frosty one in May. Growing your plants in a greenhouse means getting an extra level of protection against harsh weather conditions. The enclosed structure has the capacity to shield your plants from the ill effects of temperature swings that are unseasonal.
If you’re growing delicate plants that are highly sensitive to direct sunlight or strong winds, you’ll be glad to know that your plants’ safety is ensured under the translucent cover of a greenhouse. Aside from effectively diffusing sunlight, the structure also keeps your plants’ growing environment well-ventilated.
You can grow a wide variety of plants
Greenhouse gardening allows you to have more plant options. This means that you’ll be able to grow various types of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and ornamental plants that aren’t native to your area. Since a greenhouse is an enclosed environment, it has the capacity to provide a warmer and more humid growing environment compared to the outdoors.
The consistency of the heat, as well as the insulation, makes it possible for you to grow exotic plants and warm-season vegetables. However, this will require you to adjust the conditions to meet the requirements of your ideal harvest.
Prevents pest infestations
When it comes to protecting your tender plants from the attacks of destructive animals and insects, having your own greenhouse can be extremely beneficial. Since the greenhouse shelters your crops from predators, you won’t have to worry about deer, moles, raccoons, or birds that might attack them. In addition, a greenhouse also minimizes your need for using pesticides and other harmful chemicals that work to keep those critters at bay.
Final Notes on How to grow Periwinkle from cuttings
Plants ideal for ground cover is becoming popular these days. That’s why most homeowners are choosing to do the lawn designing themselves and learning how to grow Periwinkle from cuttings.