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Pachysandra ground cover, commonly known as Japanese Spurge, is one of the most popular and widely used landscape plants. It is an easy, low maintenance solution to most problem areas. Simple to plant and maintain, Pachysandra ground cover can be used to cover bare soil, prevent erosion, and border existing flower beds and walkways.
This low growing evergreen features glossy green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in spring and early summer. The flowers are negligible and it is grown primarily for its foliage. It prefers shady areas, but can tolerate part sun in more Northern climates. Although heat tolerant, Pachysandra ground cover prefers moist soil conditions. It will achieve heights of 6”-12” and forms a dense mat of foliage that works as an effective weed suppressant. It spreads using underground runners, and although the spread is considered medium slow to moderately fast, it can become invasive if untended. Dig up or trim wandering runners annually.
When preparing to plant Pachysandra ground cover, figure on using one plant per square foot of area to be covered. Add compost or manure to the area to be planted, working it into the soil. Set plants 12” apart and add a layer of mulch between the plats to keep the soil moist. Water regularly for the first several weeks to ensure the plants are firmly established. Fertilize once or twice the first year, using a general purpose fertilizer. Once the plants are established and spreading, it will be unnecessary to fertilize, and mulching will be optional. After the leaves have fallen in autumn, rake any fallen leaves off your pachysandra ground cover. This cover of fallen leaves can cause overly damp foliage, which can develop into fungal disease. If fungus or an unusually damaging winter leaves your plants looking ragged, trim off the top two inches of foliage in early spring.
Pachysandra ground cover lends itself to a variety of uses. It works well as a border plant along walkways and can be used as a substitute for grass under dense tree canopies in areas with low foot traffic. It is especially useful in covering shady, hard to plant areas. Consider using it under raised decks to cover the bare ground underneath. Since this plant loves moist soil it also works well as an edging for water features such as ponds and streams.
Pachysandra is a tough, versatile, shade loving plant that lends itself to a range of gardening applications. Easy to find though gardening supply stores, easy to plant, and virtually maintenance free, this species works to solve a variety of gardening problems. Once established, it requires little or no upkeep and provides a beautiful glossy green carpet of foliage. Using a Pachysandra ground cover will give you a luxurious green outdoor living space with little or no effort.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about landscape gardening and organic gardening at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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