Lawn Guardian

Vinca Minor (Periwinkle) Care Guide

Vinca minor

ground_coverZones 4–8deer resistant

Trailing evergreen ground cover with glossy dark leaves and blue-purple pinwheel flowers in spring. Establishes quickly and tolerates dense shade.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Mow or shear if ragged Early spring

If the planting looks thin or overgrown, mow or shear to 4 inches to promote fresh dense growth.

Summer

Control spread Summer

Trim runners at bed edges. Vinca can escape cultivation and become invasive in natural areas.

Fall

Remove fallen leaves After leaf drop

Rake tree leaves from vinca beds to prevent smothering.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns