Vinca Gertrude Jekyll
Vinca minor Gertrude Jekyll, commonly known as Lesser Periwinkle, is a robust, evergreen ground cover with lush, dark green foliage paired with striking, pure white flowers. Ideally suited for underplanting in shaded areas, it finds its place in woodland gardens, cottage styles, or as low-maintenance ground cover. The plant is particularly effective at weed suppression and creates a dense carpet that is visually striking and easy to maintain, perfect for cascading over walls or enhancing pots in informal settings.
Thriving in partial to full shade, Lesser Periwinkle is adaptable to a variety of soil types but performs best in moist, humus-rich conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established, needing only minimal care. Plant these about 30-45cm apart to ensure they spread well without overcrowding. Each plant matures to a height of 10-20cm and spreads up to 50cm, forming a full ground cover that adds both beauty and functionality to any garden space.
Trimming: Prune Vinca minor 'Gertrude Jekyll' in early spring to remove winter damage and encourage new growth. Trim back after flowering to maintain a neat appearance and control its spread.
Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring. If the soil is poor, an additional feeding in mid-summer can support continuous growth and flowering.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase and during dry periods. Once established, Vinca minor is drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture. Ensure the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot.
Pest Control: Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Slugs and snails can also be a problem in damp conditions; use organic slug pellets or traps to manage them.
Disease Management: Watch for signs of fungal diseases like leaf spot and root rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimise disease risk. Treat affected plants with a fungicide if necessary and improve soil drainage if root rot is a concern. Regularly inspect for any signs of disease and address promptly to keep the plant healthy.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
