Is Dichondra fast growing?
Dichondra (Dichondra ripens), also called Kidney Weed, is a fast growing, evergreen ground cover that’s easy to grow. The small green leaves of Dichondra mean this plant works well as a lawn alternative or as a gap filler between stepping stones. Dichondra, also known as kidney weed or lawn leaf, is a genus of flowering plants in the morning glory family, Convolvulaceae. It is typically a small, herbaceous plant that only grows up to 15 cm tall but spreads several feet wide.Kidney-weed (Dichondra repens) is an Australian native groundcover from the Ballarat area. Location: This charming little plant is no weed at all and does a delightful job of softening harsh edges.Dichondra thrives on a wellconditioned soil, high in humus content. Though Dichondra requires no mowing, in the early stages the turf can be 8–10cm deep. As root development takes place the stems become shorter and the turf more dense until it forms a tight, firm cover.Dichondra, a native of Australia, has been around for a long time and has been widely recognised as an excellent, low-maintenance lawn alternative. More than that, it’s a drought-tolerant alternative for shady spots where other lawns won’t grow.Dichondra is bright green in color with round kidnry shaped leaves. It spreads from creeping stolons and underground rhizomes. Roots are shallow, fibrous and grow to a depth of 6-12 inch- es.
Where does dichondra grow best?
Dichondra is a warm-season perennial ground cover, best adapted for cool coastal conditions. It will grow in partial shade, but does best in full sun. Because dichondra does not tolerate heavy traffic, it is best adapted for small areas rather than large lawns or where mowing is difficult. The most successful way to grow dichondra is to sow it in seed trays in a layer of potting mix. Then, once the plant is established, split it up by gently tearing away small pieces with the roots attached and transplant it into well-improved soil.Dichondra is virtually maintenance-free. If using it as a lawn alternative, you can mow 3-4 times per year. If cut, it will give a smooth finish. Once established, deep and infrequent watering will be necessary to keep the plant lush and healthy.Dichondra Repens Plant Care Water regularly during warmer months. Allow to dry out before watering again. Water when rainfall isn’t enough in cooler months. If the soil is dry to touch then water as they like the soil to remain moist.Dichondra is often referred to as ‘Kidney Weed’ because it’s leaf is a similar shape. It grows across the surface area and creates a pretty trail of plant. It can be used as an alternative to lawn and can be walked on but is best suited to areas with low levels of traffic.Mulching around your Dichondra Repens can also help reduce the growth of weeds. Organic mulches, such as bark chips or straw, provide additional nutrients to the soil and suppress weed seeds. Apply mulch to a 2-3 cm thickness around the base of the plant to protect its roots and keep moisture in the soil.
Can Dichondra Repens grow in full shade?
Dichondra or as it can be lovingly referred to as ‘Kidney Weed’, is a low carpeting ground cover that grows in full shade and part sun, sometimes it will grow in full sun but seems to look better with a little protection. Also, dichondra is highly resistant to disease and other lawn threats, meaning you’ll spend less time fighting fungus and dead patches in your landscape. Try tackling small problem areas in your lawn with dichondra – it spreads naturally to fill in sparse areas.Dichondra is a warm-season perennial ground cover, best adapted for cool coastal conditions. It will grow in partial shade, but does best in full sun. Because dichondra does not tolerate heavy traffic, it is best adapted for small areas rather than large lawns or where mowing is difficult.Dichondra will benefit from fertilising once a year in spring with Scotts Osmocote Plus Organics All Purpose (including Natives) Plant Food & Soil Improver or Scotts Osmocote Controlled Release Fertiliser: Garden Beds.