About Dichondra
Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ is ideal for containers where it can beautifully spill over the edges or used as a dense ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas of the garden. Dichondra is a perennial is zones 9 through 11 and grown as an annual in the lower zones.
When to Plant Dichondra Seeds
Begin indoors six to eight weeks before the last spring frost date. Transplant outdoors two weeks after the last frost when the soil has sufficiently warmed. It grows fast and spreads by rooting runners.
In warmer climates, direct sow dichondra seeds outdoors only after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. These warm-season perennials thrive when daytime temperatures reach at least 70ºF and nighttime temperatures stay above 50ºF at the time of planting.
Where to Plant Dichondra Seeds
Optimal placement is in sandy loam soils, avoiding heavy, water-saturated conditions. Choose a location that receives full sun. Dichondra will tolerate partial sun exposure, but will grow less robustly.
Thanks to its fast-spreading nature, dichondra makes an excellent no-mow lawn alternative for small, low-traffic areas. Its dense carpet of leaves helps suppress weeds and fills in spaces more quickly than traditional grass. Dichondra is also ideal in containers, adding charm when cascading over edges and its silvery-green foliage pairs beautifully with other plants.
How to Plant Dichondra Seeds
Sow seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch. Maintain soil temperature between 72°F to 76°F for germination, then lower to 65°F to 70°F post-germination. Water well and expect germination within 7 to 14 days.
Enrich soil with a few inches of compost or granular organic fertilizer before transplanting. Final planting spacing should be about two to three feet apart to allow for spreading. Water requirements are moderate. Dichondra tolerates some drought, but consistent watering (just under an inch per week) is ideal for best growth. Avoid over-watering to prevent soggy soil.
Monthly feeding with liquid fertilizer can promote lush growth.
How to Care for Dichondras
This plant has no major pest or disease issues, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. As long as dichondra is in well-draining soil, you can water the new plants regularly, letting it dry out between waterings, preventing root rot.
Regularly check for and remove any dead or discolored leaves to keep the plant healthy and attractive.