How to Install Vinca Ground Cover

Vinca minor, or periwinkle, is a hardy ground cover with a dense growing habit. It grows best in zones 4 through 6 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zone Map. If you live in zones 7 and 8, plant your vinca in an area with some afternoon shade. Vinca is sold by the clump, generally in nursery flats. Plan on purchasing one clump per square foot of garden area. Install vinca ground cover in the spring.

Things You'll Need

• Roto-tiller
• Compost
• Trowel

Instructions

1. Till the soil to a depth of 12 inches. Add a 1-inch layer of compost to the soil and blend it into the top 6 inches.

2. Dig holes that are the same diameter as the vinca's root ball and 8 inches apart. The plants should sit at the same depth they do in the nursery flat.

3. Remove the vinca plants from the nursery flat and, using your finger, separate them and fan out their roots.

4. Plant one vinca per hole. Fill the holes with soil and water the area until the top 6 inches of soil is moist.

References

• Ohio State University: Vinca Minor
• Floridata; Vinca Minor; Steve Christman; March 2006