This Month's How-To:
Plant Profile: Pachysandra

Pachysandra terminalis, Japanese Surge, or more commonly referred to by its genus, Pachysandra, is one of the most common, yet versatile, shade plants native to zone 6B. It has the capability to spread over large areas, particularly in loose, nutrient rich areas.  As a groundcover in wooded areas, Pachysandra cannot be beat.

A solid carpet of pachysandra in any significant area will take about three years to create.  Any prolonged exposure to sun will result in the plants becoming chlorotic and the inhibition of growth. It is therefore essential that care be taken when choosing a location to propagate your groundcover.  Pachysandra, when mature, grows to a height of approximately10 inches; its waxy green leaves last late into the fall and it has small white blooms in the spring. 

A Pachysandra ground covering can be established in several ways.  Normally sold in flats, pachysandra can also be propagated by splitting existing clumps and replanting, or rooted stem cuttings.  Plants should be spaced a foot apart in cultivated soil, and the area mulched to help with the retention of water.

In the fall, leaves should be gently raked or blown away from the stems of the Pachysandra plants because the decreased airflow promotes fungal growth.  Additionally, the leaf of Pachysandra is its own worst enemy when spring moisture collects and causes Pachysandra leaf blight.

With its dense green foliage, tolerance to shade, and ability to quickly spread Pachysandra is a win-win plant for any wooded area.