Periwinkle planting and care in the open field in the suburbs

A magical plant, a flower of love or a violet of a witch is all periwinkle. Planting and care in open ground, periwinkle - cultivation and reproduction, features of varieties, varieties, combination and use in landscape design - is described in the article. Beautiful photos will convey the beauty and appeal of the periwinkle.

Periwinkle: varieties and varieties

Periwinkle is an evergreen perennial that covers flower beds, ridges, slopes with a bright carpet. Unpretentious to maintain, this flower is equally loved by experienced landscape designers and novice gardeners. The leaves of the plant are as if covered with a waxy coating, dense and shiny. The inflorescence of pale purple, pale blue shades consists of five petals.

Even periwinkle foliage is a wonderful flower bed decoration.

By planting a periwinkle in a flower garden, you can forever get rid of the need to fight weeds: growing rapidly, the flower completely covers the ground, rooting with shoots and does not give the weeds even the slightest opportunity for growth.

In the wild, there are only a few varieties of periwinkle (small, large, herbaceous, pubescent), but breeders have bred many of its varieties with flowers of various shades.

1. Periwinkle large (or Vinca major) has larger leaves and flowers than periwinkle small, under favorable conditions it can bloom twice a year (in May and September), reaches up to 25 cm in height. The Reticulata and Variegata varieties, which are distinguished by the presence of yellow-white streaks on the leaves, are especially popular with designers.

   Periwinkle large

2. Herbaceous periwinkle (or Vinca herbacea) has low frost resistance, it can disappear in the winter. It differs in the shape of the leaves - they are ovoid, small, leathery, of a rich green hue.

   Herbaceous periwinkle

3. Pubescent periwinkle (Vinca pubescens) also sheds its leaves for the winter, but in general it is frost-resistant, only in extreme cold does it need additional care - shelter. Flowers are small, rising on shoots.

   Pubescent periwinkle

4. Periwinkle (or Vinca minor) is a perennial with leathery elliptical leaves.Frost-resistant to temperatures down to -10 degrees, it can only be damaged in severe frosts. It has creeping stems reaching a length of 100 centimeters or more. Rooting of the plant occurs mainly at the end of summer. Inflorescences are small, blue.

   Periwinkle

The following varieties of the lesser periwinkle have been bred:

• Alboplena - periwinkle with double white flowers;
• Argenteo-variegata - leaves are large, bright green with whitish-cream blotches, inflorescences of a pale blue hue;
• Atropurpurea - has a bright purple hue;

Atropurpurea cultivar

• Emily - just like Alboplena, it has white flowers;
• Bowles' Variety - blooms for a long period, flowers are deep blue.

Planting a plant

Periwinkle takes root on any soil, it can be planted on the slopes of the site. The perennial will grow rapidly and cover the unsightly terrain with a bright green carpet with blue blotches of flowers. The shrub will grow well in the shade of fruit trees and in the bright sun.

Periwinkle planted in the garden in the shade of trees will look very good

You should adhere to this planting scheme for periwinkle: given that it is a perennial, besides actively growing, it is recommended to plant plants at a distance of at least 30-35 cm from each other.

Caring for periwinkle

Caring for periwinkle outdoors is extremely simple - you can plant it on any soil, both in shaded and sunny places. It is necessary to ensure watering only in the early stages of plant growth; in the future, it perfectly manages the moisture contained in the soil, it is drought-resistant. Even in the hottest summer, it is recommended to water the periwinkle no more than once every 7-10 days.

Periwinkle needs almost no care

Despite the fact that this perennial is quite frost-resistant, landscape design experts recommend covering young shoots with foliage for the winter.

Fertilizer and feeding

Periwinkle in the open field does not particularly need feeding and fertilization, but at the same time it responds well to the introduction of urea into the soil (about 30-40 g per sq. M), humus and peat compost (twice per flowering season - in spring and in end of September). In addition, gradually dying off, the leaves and shoots of periwinkle serve as an organic fertilizer for young growth.

Reproduction of periwinkle

Periwinkle, like other perennials, can be propagated in several ways:

• seeds;
• dividing the bush;
• cuttings;
• taps.

The most simple planting is considered to be a periwinkle using dividing the bush... The separated piece of plant quickly takes root in a new place and grows. Experts recommend planting periwinkle in spring or early autumn. It is possible in the summer, but in this case it is necessary to moisten the soil under the plant and at the new planting site.

Pattern: periwinkle bush

Periwinkle reproduces well and cuttings... It is necessary to cut young shoots and bury them using the seating scheme as with propagation by bushes, leaving only a couple of leaves on the surface. In the future, the culture will grow and cover the entire area allotted to it with a green carpet.

To receive diversion you should dig in the shoot of the plant, and after rooting, separate it from the mother bush and transplant it to a permanent place of growth.

Seeds perennials are sown in the spring in boxes to a depth of no more than 2 cm. They are covered for a week with a dense cloth or a dark film that does not allow light to pass through. Seedlings should be grown from seeds indoors or in heated greenhouses, since the comfortable temperature for their germination is above +23 degrees. After the emergence of seedlings, boxes with seedlings are exposed to the light, while the temperature can be below +20 degrees. Seedlings dive after the appearance of the first 4 true leaves at a plant height of about 9 cm.

Periwinkle seeds

Experienced gardeners recommend breeding periwinkle in the spring, then before winter the plant has more chances to take root, get stronger and survive the winter safely.

Diseases and pests

Periwinkle is a perennial resistant to many diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids, scale insects, fungal diseases (for example, powdery mildew). To destroy aphids and scale insects, it is recommended to irrigate the plants with soapy water.For the prevention of powdery mildew, proper watering of the shrub should be ensured - it does not tolerate waterlogging, does not grow on swampy soils.

A periwinkle bush affected by a fungal disease

Periwinkle in combination with other plants

Growing up, the periwinkle completely covers the territory allotted to it with a green carpet. This perennial is ideal for landscaping a garden, it grows well between trees and shrubs. Grows well in combination with:

• lungwort;
• spills;
• primrose;
• hyacinths, other bulbous plants;
• forget-me-nots.

Periwinkle combined with cloves

The decoration of the site will be the planting of a variety of ferns on a periwinkle pillow.

Tip: control the growth of periwinkle, otherwise it can turn into a weed and drown out crops.

Periwinkle in landscape design

Periwinkle is often used in open field design to decorate wide borders, bordering ridges, this plant looks great in mixborders. In any photo, periwinkle sets off and emphasizes the beauty of the cultures that grow with it.

Periwinkle in landscape design

Plant a periwinkle on the site and get an excellent opportunity to enjoy the view of a living green carpet all year round.

Planting periwinkle: video

Periwinkle: photo

Periwinkle has long been considered a magical plant. People call it "flower of love", "violet of a witch" or "grave grass".

General information

Periwinkle, according to our ancestors, is a magical plant that drives away evil spirits. If a wreath woven of periwinkle is hung over the windows, it will save you from a lightning strike, if you pick it up over the front door, then not one person with bad intentions will enter the house, it is also a witch guard. The plant is used to wash the deceased.

This is a perennial plant that fills plots and flower beds with its abundantly creeping shoots. The plant is not demanding to care for. The leaves of the periwinkle are small, in the shape of an oblong oval. The surface of the leaf is smooth, glossy and has a rich green tint. The flowers of the plant have a pleasant rich purple hue, and have only five petals.

The periwinkle planted on the site fights well with weeds, since its roots braid the soil well, and the stems lie tightly on the ground, giving no chance for weeds to develop.

Under natural conditions, there are few varieties of periwinkle. But with the help of selection, new varieties and shades of the flower appeared.

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Varieties and types

Periwinkle large got this name because of the larger leaves than other species. It blooms twice a season in spring and autumn. The height of the stems is about 25 cm.

Periwinkle herbaceous perennial species. The leaves of the plant are ovoid, small, dense with a rich light green tint. This variety does not tolerate the harsh winter. Therefore, it requires shelter in the winter.

Periwinkle perennial species with elliptical foliage. Leaves are glossy, dense. It tolerates frosty winters well. Shoots reach lengths up to 100 cm. Inflorescences are miniature with a bluish tinge.

Periwinkle variegated it has large leaves with light beige blotches. Flowers have a pleasant bluish tint.

Periwinkle pink (indoor species), which grows well both on plots and indoors. Its second name is pink catharanthus. This shrub has a height of about 60 cm. Inflorescences are about 4 cm in diameter with a scarlet shade or pale pink. His homeland is the island of Java.

The plant has medicinal properties and its tinctures are used in the treatment of stomach ulcers, prostatitis, adenoma and hemorrhoids, and cancer.

Variegated periwinkle a bright representative, it is planted on alpine slides, rocky gardens. This species is growing rapidly. Flowering takes place in the spring. The shade of the flowers is light blue. The surface of the leaves is covered with yellowish blotches.It takes root well in any conditions.

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Periwinkle planting and care in the open field

Caring for the plant does not take much time and effort. And even a novice gardener can do it. The plant takes root well in any soil, and with any lighting. But loamy soil with a sufficient amount of humus and moderately moistened is preferable.

The plant needs to be fully moisturized only after planting until the moment of complete rooting. In the future, it is necessary to water, even in times of drought, once a week. And so the plant has enough moisture that is in the ground.

The plant needs periodic feeding in the form of mineral and organic fertilizers. Or another option for feeding is humus, along with leafy soil.

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Transplant periwinkle

It is preferable to replant the plant in early spring. The plant is distinguished by its vitality, so there are practically no problems with rooting. Transplantation is also possible in summer, but it is better to choose rainy weather.

The distance between the planted plants should be about 25 cm. For about one square about 100 pieces of seedlings.

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Pruning periwinkle

Pruning should be done in early spring to form a good crown and new buds. It is also necessary to regularly cut off dry shoots and leaves.

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Periwinkle propagation by cuttings and layering

To do this, you need to take young cuttings and dig them into the ground, leaving a part of the shoot with several leaves above the surface. Rooting occurs rapidly and the plant grows, covering the soil.

For reproduction of periwinkle by layering, the shoot from the mother plant should be dripped in and periodically moistened. After rooting, it is separated and transplanted to a permanent place.

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Periwinkle seed reproduction

Seeds must be sown in spring in prepared soil of peat and sand and covered with an opaque film. The germination temperature should be around 23 degrees. After the emergence of seedlings, it is necessary to remove the film and accustom the seedlings to light. It is necessary to dive plants when they reach a height of about 8 cm.

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Diseases and pests

• Dried periwinkle is the reason for the damage to the plant by the scabbard. In this case, the plant must be treated with an appropriate fungicide. Or the reason may be a lack of nitrogen fertilizers, feed the plant and it will return to normal.
• Periwinkle does not bloom, the reason may be a lack of light, the plant develops well in partial shade, and flowering occurs more often and more abundantly on the sunny side. The second reason may be lack of compost in the soil.
• Of the pests, the plant can infect aphids; to combat it, it is necessary to treat the bushes with soapy water.

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The evergreen periwinkle (Latin Vinca) is an unpretentious plant. The homeland of the flower is considered the north of Africa, Europe and the countries of Asia. On the territory of the Russian Federation, the flower lives in the Crimea and the Caucasus.

For beginners, planting a periwinkle and caring for it in the open field is alphabetically simple: the plant has such extraordinary vitality that it is credited with magical properties and is called a witch's violet.

General characteristics of the flower

Periwinkle belongs to herbaceous shrubs or dwarf shrubs creeping along the ground. Young shoots and peduncles are directed upwards. Height from 35 cm, but some species grow up to one and a half meters.

Ellipsoid leaves are dense, leathery, of various shades of green, in some species the leaf color is variegated, with yellow spots.

The flowers of the periwinkle are single, large in comparison with the leaves. They are painted in lilac-blue tones, but there are species with white or pink flowers.

The peak flowering of periwinkle occurs in late spring - early summer, however, until the very frost, it gives full-fledged flowers, already in smaller quantities.

The periwinkle is propagated by seeds, layering, cuttings, dividing the bush.

Various types of periwinkles are used in folk medicine, but they are used with extreme caution: the high content of alkaloids indicates the toxicity of the plant.

Types and varieties

Of the 12 species of periwinkle, domestic gardeners grow five, differing in size and color of flowers.

Small periwinkle (V. Minor)... Creeping shrub, barely reaching a height of 30 cm. Flowers from pale blue to deep blue. The flowering period is from late spring to early autumn. Medicinal plant. Popular groups:

1. Alboplena with white double flowers.
2. Argenteo-variegata forms rich blue inflorescences, highly decorative leaves, rich green color with a white or light beige border or specks.
3. Atropurpurea is a deep purple-pink color.
4. Emily, corollas of white flowers.
5. Bowles Variety with long, profuse flowering.
6. Each group has dozens of varieties of varying degrees of decorativeness, differing in the terry and shades of flowers and leaves.

Great periwinkle (V. Major)... Shrub up to one and a half meters tall and large, up to 5 cm long, leaves. The light blue flowers are also impressive in size: the diameter of each is about 5 cm.The peak flowering occurs in late spring - early summer.

Gardeners appreciate variegated varieties of the type:

• "Expoflora" with bright green leaves, bordered by a strip of light shade;
• "Masculata", in which the light leaves in the middle acquire a dark green color along the edges;
• "Vejo gem" with leaves covered with spots of contrasting color.

Important! Large periwinkle, especially variegated varieties, does not like cold winters and therefore needs shelter.

Pubescent periwinkle (V. pubescens)... A rarely used species in gardening, since it does not tolerate frost, sheds leaves with the onset of cold weather, needs shelter.

Herb periwinkle (V. Herbacea)... A herbaceous dwarf shrub that does not tolerate winter cold at all, even under cover.

Attention! The herbaceous periwinkle is a poisonous plant! Handling it requires extra care.

Pink periwinkle (V. Rosea)... Another name for the species is catharanthus. Evergreen shrub up to 60 cm high. The color of flowers is shades of pink from pale, almost white, to saturated. It is thermophilic, hibernates under cover.

Popular variety series:

1. Grape Cooler with purple flowers, pink heart.
2. Peppermint Cooler - White flowers with bright red eyes.
3. First Kiss is an extensive group with a varied (over a dozen tones) corolla coloration.

Growing features

Planting an unpretentious periwinkle in the ground and growing it is a sheer pleasure. The flower is undemanding to external conditions, but for better development and abundant flowering, some of its features should be taken into account.

Seat selection

The plant thrives equally well in a wide variety of growing conditions. A place in the garden is considered optimal, characterized by the following qualities:

• partial shade of fruit or large-leaved trees;
• the soil is loose, with good drainage, fertile, neutral;
• for planting periwinkle, they choose elevated areas, slopes.

How and when to sow seeds

Sowing is carried out before winter or in early spring, when the snow melts, the soil warms up a little.

Sowing technique:

1. The soil is loosened. Compost is added to poor or clayey soil.
2. Seeds disinfected with potassium permanganate are sown in shallow, up to 1 cm, grooves. The distance between the planting points is kept at least 30 cm. Crops fall asleep, watered abundantly.

On a note! Periwinkle protects the soil on slopes from erosion. How to plant it in this case? Experts recommend a distance of 15 cm from each other, staggered.

Planting by cuttings, layering and cuttings

Periwinkle willingly reproduces vegetatively, creeping shoots at points of contact with the ground quickly give new roots.

Cuttings... Usually they are harvested closer to autumn, combined with a general haircut of plantings. The technique of rooting cuttings does not require additional tweaks; cut off shoots are placed vertically in shallow pits and watered. If there are at least 2 leaves on the handle, rooting will take place without difficulty.

On a note! If a rare specimen of periwinkle is found, it is not at all necessary to wait for the end of summer: the cuttings take root in any case if they are cut off, not plucked.

When planting cuttings, the distance between them is kept at least 30 cm.

Layers... The periwinkle itself forms the layers, saving the time and effort of the summer resident, it remains only to carefully separate the shoot from the main plant, remove it from the ground and plant it in a new place. Delenki... It is preferable to divide the bushes in the spring, when the flower is just waking up. It is carefully dug up, side shoots with part of the roots are separated. The well is prepared according to the size of the root system of the "delenka". Having placed the newly formed bush in the hole, cover its roots with earth and water it abundantly.

Do you need special care

In fairness, it should be noted that all periwinkle care is special.

1. Water only newly planted seedlings (cuttings, "cuttings", purchased ready-made plants). Can be watered if dry season lasts more than 10 days. Otherwise, the flower has enough natural precipitation and dew.
2. You do not need to weed periwinkles. They easily get along with weeds, moreover, they oppress them.
3. Loosening of the soil is necessary only if loosening components have not been introduced into the clay soil.
4. In spring and autumn, periwinkle sods, which have been growing for several years without transplanting, are pierced with a pitchfork.
5. Organic fertilizing is carried out 2-3 times per season: when active growth begins, during the formation of buds, during the flowering period. Use standard concentration mullein or poultry manure slurries.

Interesting! Periwinkle is able to feed itself: fallen leaves contain the necessary amount of nutrients for the successful development of young shoots.

The periwinkle species recommended for cultivation on the territory of the Russian Federation are frost-resistant. Heat-loving exotics and first-year flowers are covered with spruce branches, dry leaves or straw. It is advisable to take care of winter shelter in areas with unstable winter weather, so that the early thaw does not destroy the awakened plants.

Pruning

Pruning is carried out at the end of flowering and seed collection. At the same time, two goals are pursued: the aesthetic appearance of plantings and the redirection of nutrients to the roots for better wintering.

In order for periwinkles to bush well and quickly cover the surface of the ground assigned to them, young shoots are pinched as they grow. Pinching promotes branching of bushes.

We fight pests and diseases

These events will not take much time and effort.

The only pest that attacks the plant is aphids. It is enough to use folk remedies against it, especially when the plant is grown as a medicinal. Use infusions of garlic or onion peels, tobacco, banana peels.

Of all the known diseases, periwinkle is susceptible only to powdery mildew or rust. Any fungicide is used for prophylaxis or treatment.

We transplant correctly

A transplant is done if necessary if:

• a place for planting another crop is required;
• overgrown sod;
• thickened plantings.

The best time is early spring or late autumn.

In the first two cases, the sod is cut into pieces with a shovel, and they are transferred to prepared areas of the appropriate size.

In the third, individual bushes are carefully dug up, seated in pits, the depth of which is equal in size to an earthen coma.

Note! It is advisable to transplant periwinkle regularly, every 2-3 years, so that the plant does not interfere with the growth of neighboring crops.

In what time frame and how to properly collect the seeds

The collection of seeds begins in September, by which time they ripen in all species and varieties. They are sorted out, rejecting unsuccessful and small litter, dried in the shade, laid out in fabric bags or paper bags.

If sowing is scheduled in spring, store the seeds in a cool dry pantry or refrigerator.

Use in landscape design

The rapidly growing periwinkle becomes a hindrance to most horticultural crops. Only a select few, without prejudice, coexist with the "witch's violet": lungwort, primroses, forget-me-nots, small-bulbous (hyacinths, snowdrops, snowdrops), ferns.

In landscape design, slopes, curbs, ridges are decorated with periwinkle. They are bordered by flower beds, used to create a low hedge.

The plant is grown in container ways, decorating sites, verandas, terraces. Digging a small bush in the fall and planting it in a pot, they get a pretty indoor flower. True, such landscaping requires more frequent watering and top dressing.

Medicinal properties and contraindications

All species are endowed with medicinal properties, especially periwinkle, which has long been cultivated as a medicinal plant.

Periwinkle is used to treat diseases of cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, arrhythmia, spasms), relieve neurotic conditions.

Traditional medicine recommends the plant as a means to cleanse the blood, stop bleeding. Infusions and decoctions are useful for rheumatism, diarrhea, scurvy, and lingering coughs.

Traditional medicine uses periwinkle in drugs to normalize blood circulation in the brain, treat diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Rose periwinkle extract is an antineoplastic agent.

Attention! Treatment with periwinkle, including official medicines based on it, is carried out only as prescribed by a doctor!

The main contraindications for use are pregnancy and breastfeeding. Certain drugs have their own additional restrictions.

Planting periwinkle and caring for it in the open field is more of a pleasant pastime than work. Giving a peculiar charm to the summer cottage, the periwinkle requires practically nothing in return, which greatly facilitates the difficult life of the summer resident.

Dense, shiny, as if waxed, leaves, despite the snow and winter, lining the entire territory with a fresh green carpet that they managed to capture over the summer. Miracle? No, periwinkle!

Although in folk beliefs associated with this evergreen ground cover plant, miracles cannot be dispensed with.

Periwinkle is called both the flower of love and the violet of the witch; many magical properties are attributed to it, promising unheard of riches and the extraordinary power of love.

But even a skeptic who does not believe in magic will not remain indifferent when he sees thick carpets of evergreen leathery foliage, strewn with the most delicate five-leafed inflorescences.

Both pros in landscape design and gardeners who are taking their first timid steps into the world of flowers appreciate and love this spectacular ground cover plant for its high decorative qualities and amazing unpretentiousness.

Periwinkle: species and varieties of plants

The Latin name for periwinkle is Vinka, which means "to entwine".

The name is explained by the ability of the plant to cover any areas and surfaces, even vertical ones: the roots of a perennial cling to the slightest opportunity to move further, higher.

At the same time, periwinkle, as a perennial ground cover plant, is not an aggressor, being perfectly combined with other ornamental crops.

And if the vinka grows next to a retaining wall or other sheer surface, then it easily takes an ampelous shape.

Periwinkle large

Large periwinkle - Vinca major - the largest-leaved (up to 8 cm) and rather tall (about 25 cm). Twice a year, in spring and autumn, it blooms with blue inflorescences.

Designers distinguish two of the most popular variegated, variegated, Vinca major varieties:

Vinca Variegata - with light spots along the edge of the leaves Vinca Maculata - leaves with a light spot in the center and a thick green border Vinca Reticulata - also variegated with flowers of a juicy purple hue and a much lighter heart

Periwinkle

Small periwinkle - Vinca minor - grows not upward, but in breadth: its stems, spreading in different directions, stretch out a meter or more, forming a dense continuous cover.

The varieties are distinguished by the color of small flowers:

• Alboplena - white terry inflorescences;
• Bowles' Variety - deep blue color, very long flowering;
• Argenteo-variegata - like variegated periwinkle, it has juicy green leaves with light spots. The flowers of this variety are blue, of a very delicate tone;
• Atropurpurea - already from the name you should expect purple colors;

Pubescent periwinkle

Unlike relatives, pubescent periwinkle - Vinca pubescens - sheds foliage for the winter.

It also differs in that the flowers rise above the carpet of greenery, formed from the interweaving of stems, young shoots, leaves.

The flowers are blue.

Periwinkle pink

Evergreen pink periwinkle - Vinkarosea- is already a shrub with high, up to half a meter, vertical shoots.

It got its name from the color of the flowers. Blooms from spring to autumn.

In the literature, there are also other names for pink periwinkle: cayenne jasmine and catharanthus.

Varietal diversity is also determined by variations in the color of flowers:

• Albus - white flowers without any shades;
• Ocellatus - bright red heart on a white flower;
• Cooler is a whole palette of shades from pale pink to deep red;
• Parasol - on a snow-white inflorescence, the core is dark red. This variety has a lower height - about 40 cm.

Periwinkle herbaceous

The description of the perennial plant Vinca herbacea - herb periwinkle - can be found in reference books of medicinal plants.

Infusions are used to treat wounds, skin problems, diabetes, stomach ulcers.

Deciduous variety. Violet-blue inflorescences bloom for a month in early summer.

Growing periwinkle is an activity for the lazy

This perception of periwinkle - a plant for lazy gardeners - is due to the fact that a more unpretentious culture still needs to be looked for.

It grows in almost any conditions, on almost any soil, maintenance is minimal, and it also helps to get rid of weeds. Of course, with such a set of advantages, he gained immense popularity.

But the florist, accustomed to achieving the best results, will nevertheless try to create the most comfortable conditions for this unpretentious plant, for which he will be fully rewarded.

Seat selection

Creating thick emerald bedspreads in flowers on any surface, periwinkle does not like stagnant moisture, prefers well-lit areas, but not direct sunlight.

Although for variegated varieties, illumination is a fundamental criterion: the more light the plant receives, the brighter and more light streaks will be on green leaves.

In shaded areas, the variegation of the color will fade.

But varieties with monochromatic leaves feel quite comfortable in the shade.

Propagation by cuttings

During the autumn shearing of periwinkle, cut fragments of shoots are used for cuttings.

Cuttings with 3-4 internodes are suitable for reproduction.

They are dipped for 20-30 minutes in a solution of a rooting stimulator or they are edged with dry powder ("Kornevin") and planted in prepared holes.

They are planted vertically, it is enough to leave 2-3 leaves above ground level.

When planting several cuttings, you should immediately maintain a distance of about 30 cm between them. The planted cuttings are well watered.

Reproduction by dividing the bush

This method of reproduction of periwinkle occurs in the spring, when the snow has already melted, the soil has warmed up a little, but the plant has not yet entered the stage of active growth.

Dividing the periwinkle bush

The bush is dug up, the mother plant and the lateral processes are divided so that the roots are on each part.

Pre-treatment with a rooting stimulant will help the cuttings take root faster and more painlessly.

Delenki are planted in holes dug 30 cm apart, straightening the roots, filling them with earth with the addition of peat and sand, tightly squeezing and compacting the soil.

Water well after planting.

Seed propagation

Seed propagation is required only if periwinkle is a new plant in the garden or if you want to start another variety.

The seeds of the popular groundcover are sold at specialty gardening stores.

But if possible, it is easy to collect the seeds yourself.

How to collect and store periwinkle seeds

The fruits of different varieties - a couple of cylinder-shaped leaflets - differ slightly in color and shape, but they all ripen in September.

I collect the ripe seeds, be sure to dry them. Store them in a cool dry place in fabric bags.

Sowing seeds in open ground

In warm regions with mild short winters and early spring, it is possible to plant periwinkle seeds in open ground.

Seedlings will feel more comfortable in a semi-shaded garden bed. Seeds can be planted both in spring and autumn, before winter.

To do this, in a prepared bed, cleaned of weeds, loosened, fertilized with compost or rotted manure, seeds are sown in grooves, between which 10 cm, embedding them into the soil up to 3 cm deep, and between the seeds - about 30 cm.

In the spring, the soil is saturated with moisture, which allows the sprouts to hatch faster, in the fall, after sowing, it is necessary to monitor the moisture content of the soil.

Seedlings grow very quickly, when 4-5 leaves appear on the stems, they can be transplanted to a permanent place in the flower garden.

Sowing seeds for seedlings at home

For seedlings, periwinkle seeds are sown in spring, the exact recommendations on the timing of sowing should be found on the package with seeds, since the timing of planting seedlings in open ground depends on local climatic conditions: the further north the region, the later the seedlings are planted and, therefore, the seeds are sown later.

Before sowing, the seeds are etched in a manganese solution for disinfection and increasing immunity.

Instead of potassium permanganate, stimulants "Epin", "Zircon" can be used.

Any universal soil, peat tablets, is suitable for seedlings.

You can plant in seedling boxes or separate cups. After sowing, the substrate is well watered, and the container is covered with foil or heat.

Before the emergence of seedlings, the seedling container can be in a dark place, but it is important to provide heat, at least + 23 ° C.

As soon as sprouts have appeared, periwinkle needs not only heat (the temperature should be lowered by 2-3 degrees), but also light.

The film (glass) must be removed from time to time for a few minutes, increasing the duration of the air procedures, and after a few days this protection is no longer needed.

After the appearance of 4-5 leaves, seedlings that have grown in a common box or container must be cut into separate pots, in which the plants will develop before transplanting into open ground.

Transplanting periwinkle seedlings into open ground

The answer to the question of when to plant periwinkle in open ground in spring also depends on the conditions of a particular season: if the ground has warmed up, weather forecasters do not promise night frosts, then the time has come to plant seedlings.

Usually round-the-clock positive temperatures in the Moscow region are established in mid-May, beyond the Urals - by the beginning of June.

Seedlings are placed in holes, between which 30-35 cm.For row spacing, at least 10 cm is allocated.

If planted in a checkerboard pattern, the ground cover culture forms a solid carpet much earlier.

Planting in a checkerboard pattern is also recommended if, with the help of an evergreen plant, they want not only to decorate the site, but also to protect the soil from leaching and erosion.

Reproduction by layering

This is the easiest way to reproduce periwinkle: you just need to sprinkle the shoot with earth and keep the soil moisture in this place so that the stem gives roots.

When the roots grow back, the plant will begin to strengthen in place, the stem is carefully cut before and after the rooted fragment, a new bush is dug up and transplanted.

The newly planted cuttings are watered, and very soon it begins to independently develop the territory.

For a more comfortable adaptation period in a new place, the layers can be covered with a transparent plastic bottle of a suitable size, creating a kind of greenhouse.

Under these conditions, the soil is protected from drying out, which will allow periwinkle to quickly build up the root system and begin active growth of the aboveground part.

Features of caring for periwinkle

Caring for periwinkle in the open field is minimal, since the plant does not require special conditions and close attention of the gardener.

Watering

A drought-resistant perennial needs abundant watering only in the first stage of life - after planting.

In the hot dry months, the zealous florist waters the flower beds and other flower beds, which means that the periwinkle gets life-giving moisture for long and abundant flowering.

If the vinka ground cover is soloing (border or carpet planting), then one watering per week will be enough for it.

Top dressing

Periwinkle, undemanding to the composition and nutritional value of the soil, does not require separate fertilization, but it will gratefully respond to feeding with more lush greenery and an abundance of flowers.

To feed the decorative perennial in spring and autumn, the soil is fertilized with organic matter: humus, compost, rotted manure.

During the season, twice - before flowering and during the period of the most abundant blooming of inflorescences - they are fed with urea, mineral fertilizers.

Just scatter a few granules before watering.

Pruning and pinching

Young plants are pinched to stimulate new shoot development, while mature stands may need sanitary pruning of dead or damaged stems.

Planted in a flower garden of a strict form or clearly delineated contours, a ground cover can go beyond the boundaries and violate the plan of the grower.

In these cases, pruning is also required.

Disease prevention and pest control

Vinca in all its varietal diversity is a plant that is quite resistant to attack by pests and diseases.

The reason lies in the dense leathery leaves, the toxicity of the juice.

The best prevention against problems is the attention and care of the gardener.

Periwinkle does not need much, and if the culture is provided with everything necessary, then the naturally strong immunity of the plant will be able to withstand adverse conditions.

The ubiquitous powdery mildew and rust, which are caused by the activity of fungal spores, can break through this defense.

If yellow-red or whitish stains are found on the leaves and shoots, urgent treatment with fungicidal preparations is required: "Fitosporin", "Topaz".

Periodically, it is necessary to inspect the lower part of the leaf plate, where scale insects or aphids can settle.

These parasites spread very quickly, suck the juices from the green parts of the plant, which leads to a weakening of immunity, loss of decorativeness and even death.

To combat pests, insecticides are used - "Aktara", "Fufanon" - and folk remedies will not be superfluous, including onion and garlic infusions, ash pollination or irrigation with an ash solution, a solution of laundry soap.

Preparation for wintering

Properly preparing the plant for winter is the last stage of crop care in the season. This also applies to evergreen wintering periwinkle, especially to its variegated varieties.

For the winter, periwinkle must be mulched with humus or compost, covered with spruce branches, covered with leaves.

It is especially important to create a secure shelter for young plants and varieties with variegated leaves.

In the conditions of central Russia, not every periwinkle will survive the winter, even with good shelter and heavy snowfalls, especially for varieties of large periwinkle, catharanthus (varieties of pink periwinkle).

And in Siberia, all types of wines are cultivated as annuals.

You can save the wine until spring at home, since the periwinkle is also suitable for home cultivation.

If you cut the cuttings in the fall, plant them in pots or containers at home, then in the spring it will be possible to make up for the loss of periwinkle in the fight against the winter cold at the expense of home specimens.

Periwinkle in landscape design

Rapid growth, spectacular glossy green leaves, long periods of abundant flowering, the ability to cover any surface with itself - qualities that allow periwinkle to be very widely used in decorating a site and decorating an interior.

As a ground cover plant, vinca is used in contrasting or monochrome ridges and borders, as a plant of the lower tier - in mixborders and flower beds.

The ability to grow on almost bare stones makes it possible to grow it in rockeries and alpine slides.

For carpet plantings, you can plant a mixed periwinkle "Sicily. Color Mix ”that can transform an unsightly piece of earth into a colorful palette.

By planting wine in near-trunk circles, the gardener solves three problems at once:

1. There are no weeds where the wine grows;
2. Covering the soil with a dense carpet and not needing a lot of moisture, periwinkle creates a protective layer to preserve soil moisture around fruit and ornamental plantings;
3. Decorative function in the shade of tree crowns.

To decorate terraces, verandas, gazebos, loggias and balconies, the interior of a residential building, periwinkle ampelous F1 - Catharanthus rоseus (Vinca rosea) is planted in hanging pots.

In the interior compositions of potted flowers, the compact variety "Kiffa" is magnificent, featuring large inflorescences.

Combination with other plants

Some of the best options for the neighborhood with periwinkle are early bulbous (hyacinths, woodlands), mountain weasel, primrose, heuchera, irises, forget-me-nots.

A pillow of glossy leaves with delicate flowers will be a worthy background for daylilies, ferns, and short conifers.

Whatever the first garden periwinkle, it will be the first.

Because you will definitely want to know other varieties, come up with a composition for variegated or monochromatic emerald varieties, try a new combination in a flower garden or grow a beautiful rug between shrubs.

There is some magic in this seemingly simple plant.

Looking at the delicate, unpretentious flowers above the waxy evergreen cushion of leaves, you catch a combination of fleetingness and eternity, merged together.