How to Plant Pachysandra

Pachysandra is a low maintenance, evergreen ground cover that can add some greenery and texture to a shade garden. Pachysandra is a great plant for problem areas where grass won't grow because of shade or poor soil. It grows best in moist, well-drained soil and can be easily propagated by division. Here's how to plant pachysandra:

Preparing the Soil

Before planting pachysandra, it is important to prepare the soil. Pachysandra thrives in rich, well-drained soil, so start by loosening the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches. Remove any weeds or debris from the planting area, and amend the soil with organic matter such as compost, peat moss or aged manure. Mix in about 4 inches of organic matter to the soil.

Next, create a barrier around the planting area using landscape edging or rocks. This will prevent pachysandra from spreading to unwanted areas.

Planting Pachysandra

Pachysandra can be planted any time between spring and late fall, but preferably in spring or fall. Once the soil is ready, dig shallow holes for the pachysandra plants, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart. Make sure the holes are large enough to accommodate the root ball of each plant.

Next, carefully remove the pachysandra plants from their containers and loosen the roots. Place the plants in the holes, filling in with soil around the roots so that the plants are at the same level as they were in the containers. Water each plant well after planting.

Caring for Pachysandra

Pachysandra is a low maintenance plant, but it still requires some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for pachysandra:

1. Water pachysandra regularly, particularly during hot, dry weather. It prefers moist, but not waterlogged soil.

2. Fertilize pachysandra once a year in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause root burn.

3. Keep pachysandra weed-free by removing any weeds that appear around the plants.

4. If pachysandra starts to look leggy or thin, trim it back in early spring.

Propagating Pachysandra

Pachysandra can be easily propagated by division in early spring. To propagate pachysandra, dig up a section of the plant using a garden fork or spade. Separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and some foliage. Replant each section in well-prepared soil.

In conclusion, planting pachysandra is an easy way to add some greenery and texture to your garden. With a little preparation and care, your pachysandra plants will thrive and add some visual interest to your landscape.