How to Grow Dichondra Plant Outdoors

Dichondra is a beautiful plant that can add aesthetic value to your garden. This plant is usually used as a ground cover or a trailing plant in hanging baskets. Dichondra is not only beautiful but also easy to grow and maintain. In this article, we will discuss how to grow dichondra plant outdoors.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step to growing dichondra is choosing the right location. Dichondra grows well in locations with full or partial sunlight. However, it requires some shade during the hottest part of the day. If you live in an area with hot summers, consider planting dichondra in a location where it can get some shade during the afternoon.

Dichondra also prefers well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clayey, consider adding some sand or organic matter to improve its drainage.

Planting Dichondra

Once you have chosen the right location, it’s time to plant your dichondra. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris.
2. Dig holes: Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of your dichondra plant.
3. Plant your dichondra: Place your dichondra plant in the hole and fill it with soil. Make sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
4. Water your dichondra: Water your dichondra thoroughly after planting.

Maintaining Dichondra

Maintaining dichondra is easy. Here are some tips to keep your plants healthy and beautiful:

1. Watering: Dichondra requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water your plants deeply once a week or more frequently if necessary.
2. Fertilizing: Feed your dichondra with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
3. Pruning: Prune your dichondra regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
4. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your dichondra to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Troubleshooting

Dichondra is generally a pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to some problems, such as:

1. Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure that your soil is well-drained and reduce watering if necessary.
2. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around your plants.
3. Aphids: These are small insects that can suck the sap from your dichondra plants, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To control aphids, spray your plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

FAQ

How often should I water my dichondra plant?

Dichondra requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water your plants deeply once a week or more frequently if necessary.

Can I grow dichondra in a hanging basket?

Yes, dichondra makes an excellent trailing plant for hanging baskets.

What kind of fertilizer should I use for my dichondra plant?

Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

How often should I prune my dichondra plant?

Prune your dichondra regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

In conclusion, growing dichondra outdoors is easy and rewarding. With the right location, planting techniques, and maintenance practices, you can enjoy a beautiful and healthy dichondra plant in your garden.