There are basically two species of periwinkle that grow at different heights, the small periwinkle (Vinca minor) and the equally poisonous large periwinkle (Vinca major). Both variants are similar in their care needs, but have slightly different location preferences.

The delicate periwinkle requires very little care

How often does the periwinkle need to be watered?

You can enrich very sandy soil in your garden with a little peat so that watering the periwinkle is largely unnecessary. Due to the shading of the ground and the fact that planting often takes place in the shade, watering of evergreens is rarely necessary. It should only be watered occasionally depending on the location and during long dry periods.

When is the best time to transplant periwinkle?

The best time for transplanting evergreens is spring. Then there is still enough time for growth and pruning before autumn, which stimulates more branching.

When and how is the periwinkle cut?

Basically, you do not necessarily have to cut the periwinkle as part of the care or rejuvenation. However, you can cut it back strongly from above in the spring if it should have become too tall for you. But leave enough branches and shoot buds close to the ground. You can also remove lateral outgrowths at other times if the evergreen should grow beyond its planned location in one place.

Which diseases and pests can periwinkle be dangerous?

Basically, most periwinkle varieties are very robust and are also spurned by slugs. However, a disease called Phoma stem rot of the plant, which is often used as a ground cover, can lead to the total loss of entire stocks. Black "nests" should be removed from the stock and destroyed. Self-made spray manure from onions and garlic is said to help against this fungus.

Does the periwinkle need to be fertilized?

Artificial fertilizer is usually not absolutely necessary for the nutrient supply of the evergreen. In rainy years, however, nutrients can be washed out of the soil. Then, for example, the following materials should be incorporated into the top layer of soil around the evergreen plants:

  • leaf mulch
  • seasoned garden compost
  • hardwood chippings

How do you get the evergreens through the winter?

The subspecies of Vinca minor are generally hardy in colder locations than the large-leaved Vinca major. However, all periwinkle species in this country can usually be overwintered outdoors without major problems.

tips

To ensure that the periwinkle gets through the cold season even in winters with little snow, a cover with leaf mulch or a special fleece can be a good protection against frost.

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Herbs