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 tiny plants are covering the ground. Native to Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia, there are slight variations in this plant species, confusing many in the UK.
The Periwinkle Plant Profile
As a reasonably popular ground cover in the UK, a periwinkle is known for its creeping habit. This plant goes by its more familiar names, such as creeping myrtle, dwarf Periwinkle, and vinca minor, to name a few.
This plant grows low in the ground and can spread quickly. Its flowers come in different colours (blue, lavender, purple, and white). It can reach up to 6 inches tall, with vines trailing as long as 18 inches by maturity.
Landscape uses
UK gardeners usually plant these plants 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 that 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
One can propagate common Periwinkle 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 three sets of leaves, minus the flowers and the bottom half leaves.
Dip the severed end in rooting hormone talc, and insert one perennial periwinkle into a pot prefilled with a mixture of equal sand, perlite, and peat moss. More importantly, keep the sand mixture moist daily.
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. Afterwards, 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. Please take note, though, that you need to choose a cool day to do this and give them enough water before dividing them.
Seeds
Seeds are by far the hardest out of the three options. Using hybrid seeds will enable you to experiment with differing flower colours and plant forms. This method also lets you produce numerous plants at one time.
The Many Benefits of polytunnel Gardening
Are you planning to set up your 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 polytunnel gardening:
Protection from bad weather conditions
Weather can be unpredictable because it’s possible to have a scorching day in October or a cool and frosty one in May. Growing your plants in a polytunnel means getting an extra level of protection against harsh weather conditions. The enclosed structure can 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 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. More plant options mean that you’ll be able to grow various types of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and ornamental plants that aren’t native to your area. Since polytunnel is an enclosed environment, it can provide a warmer and more humid growing environment than the outdoors.
The consistency of the heat and the insulation make 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 polytunnel can be highly beneficial. Since the polytunnel shelters your crops from predators, you won’t have to worry about deer, moles, raccoons, or birds that might attack them. In addition, a polytunnel also minimises 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 in the UK are choosing to do the lawn designing themselves and learning how to grow Periwinkle from cuttings.