How to Grow Perennial Vinca (Vinca minor & Vinca major)

 

Perennial vinca, also known as periwinkle, is a hardy, low-maintenance ground cover that thrives in a variety of conditions. There are two common species: Vinca minor (lesser periwinkle) and Vinca major (greater periwinkle). Both produce attractive glossy green leaves and small purple-blue flowers, making them excellent choices for erosion control, shady areas, and low-maintenance landscaping.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Vinca Variety

• Vinca minor: Smaller leaves and flowers; more cold-tolerant (zones 4-9). Ideal for shady or semi-shady areas.

• Vinca major: Larger leaves and flowers; thrives in warmer climates (zones 7-10). More vigorous growth but less cold-hardy. Variegated foliage may be available.

Step 2: Selecting the Planting Site

Vinca is adaptable, but it grows best under these conditions:

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some sun.

• Soil: Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is best, but vinca can adapt to a variety of soil types.

• Moisture: While drought-tolerant once established, it prefers moist (but not soggy) soil during the initial growth phase.

Step 3: Planting Vinca

Planting from Potted Plants or Transplants

1. Timing: Plant in early spring or fall when temperatures are moderate.

2. Spacing: Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for spreading.

3. Planting Depth: Dig a hole slightly deeper than the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and cover with soil.

4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.


Planting from Cuttings

1. Take 4- to 6-inch cuttings from a healthy vinca plant.

2. Remove the lower leaves and plant directly in moist soil or start in water until roots develop.

3. Transplant to the desired area once roots are well-formed.


Step 4: Caring for Perennial Vinca

Watering

• Water regularly during the first few weeks to help establish roots.

• Once established, vinca is drought-tolerant and requires only occasional watering.

Mulching

• Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

• Vinca generally does not require much fertilization.

• If desired, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage lush growth.

Pruning & Controlling Growth

• Trim back in early spring to encourage new growth.

• If vinca spreads too aggressively, cut back runners to keep it contained.

Step 5: Dealing with Common Problems

Pests

• Generally pest-resistant, but occasionally affected by aphids or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap if needed.

Diseases

• Can be prone to fungal diseases in overly wet conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.

Step 6: Enjoying Your Vinca!

Once established, perennial vinca requires minimal care and provides year-round greenery with seasonal flowers. It’s an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscaping, erosion control, and adding beauty to shady garden areas.

Important note: All parts of Vinca major and Vinca minor are toxic if ingested.

FAQ: If planted in full shade will Variegated Liriope revert to all green?

Q. If planted in full shade, will Variegated Liriope revert to all green?

A. Planting in full shade won't cause Liriope muscari 'Variegata' to revert to green. It can revert to green, but it doesn't happen often. Variegation can be caused by several factors. It can be caused by virus. It can be communicated mechanically. Viral variegation tends to develop in irregular patterns, and it often affects the growth habit of the plant.

Genetic variegation occurs when cells produce little or no green pigment. This can be hereditary or occur as random mutations. Sections of plants that have randomly mutated are called "sports." The accompanying photo shows a section of Trachelospermum jasminoides that is "sporting." "Sports" can be propagated vegetatively. Random mutation appears in new growth, and tends to be regular and consistent in appearance. "Sporting" will not proceed into old tissue and change the appearance of the parent plant. Random genetic variegation can reverse itself in subsequent new tissue. The non-pigmented cells may or may not be sensitive to sun exposure.

Variegation can appear when air pockets develop under the outer layers of leaf tissue. This is actually a form of genetic variegation.

Liriope muscari 'Variegata' is a result of random genetic mutation. Since the genetic factor that caused variegation in the first place can reverse itself, new shoots from a variegated liriope parent can come out green, but that's not a sun/shade exposure issue.

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