How do you plant A liriope plant?
Though liriope will tolerate a wide variety of growing conditions, it will be important to select a planting site that receives ample sunlight and one that is well draining. Water the newly planted liriope weekly until the plants have become established.
Do Liriope plants need to be divided?
Unlike other plants, however, there has been little evidence to suggest that the growth of liriope inhibits the plants’ ability to produce flowers. For this reason, most recommend that liriope plant division is the choice of the gardener. Liriope plants will continue to grow well for many years, despite not being frequently divided.
When is the best time to propagate Liriope?
The best time to propagate liriope is in the very late fall or early spring. Dividing liriope is not necessary for the health or longevity of the plant but is often done to control the current plant's spread in an area or to add the plant to another part of the garden or landscape. Division is best attempted after the third growing season.
How far apart do you plant creeping lily turf?
The Missouri Botanical Garden points out that creeping lily turf (Liriope spicata) actually spreads as a ground cover in USDA zones 4 through 10. Because blue lily turf has a 1-foot spread, space plants 12 inches apart to form a continuous border around flower beds or islands.
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How far apart should liriope be?
Liriope is not fussy about light or soil conditions, but does best in a sunny spot with well drained soil. Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart if you want to eventually carpet an area with foliage.
How many liriope plants do I need?
If you plant at 8 inch spacing, you will need 2.25 plants per square foot. If you plant at 10 inch spacing, you will need 1.45 plants per square foot. If you plant at 12 inch spacing, you will need 1 plant per square foot. If you plant at 15 inch spacing, you will need .
Should liriope be cut back each year?
Clipping back every two to three years generally is adequate, so if your liriope looks fine this year, you may leave it alone. For readers with other ground covers, Asian jasmine generally requires cutting back at least once a year.
How wide do liriope get?
about 12 to 18 inches wideMost liriopes grow to a height between 10 and 18 inches. Liriope muscari generally grows in a clump form and will spread to about 12 to 18 inches wide.
How do you spread liriope?
To encourage spreading, mow liriope or mondo grass to 2-3 inches early in spring before applying an application of fertilizer and mulch. Preemergent herbicides can also be used at this time to help prevent weed growth.
How do you use liriope for landscaping?
How to Landscape With LiriopePlant drought-tolerant and spreading Liriope spicata as a ground cover for hard-to-mow slopes or banks. ... Brighten dry shade with a pool of variegated foliage using Liriope muscari. ... Use liriope in locations with salt spray. ... Create a transition zone between a pond, stream or pool with liriope.
How long does it take for liriope to grow?
Potting and Repotting Liriope The container should be large enough for the plant to grow for two to three years—at least 3 inches longer and deeper than the specimen. It should have several drainage holes at the bottom.
What is the best fertilizer for liriope?
Liriope doesn't need a lot of fertilizer. A light application of 10-10-10 – around ¼ cup per plant – applied in the spring is sufficient, especially if you have fertile soil. In fact, too much fertilizer can make this plant more prone to disease and insect problems.
Can liriope be mowed?
It is adaptable to both sunny and partially shady conditions. They are evergreen plants with excellent hardiness, growing between 11 and 18 inches (30-46 cm.) tall. You can mow them or leave them alone and they will remain small, compact plants.
Does all Liriope spread?
Liriope muscari is the "clumping" kind that does not spread by runners and basically stays where you put it. It blooms purple, not white like spicata, but it shares all the good qualities of the spreading kind - incredible toughness and adaptability - without the invasive behavior.
Is Liriope the same as monkey grass?
Species of Liriope are the plants most commonly referred to as "monkey grass," or sometimes "lily turf," and southern gardeners have either of two reactions to it: hate or love.
How do you keep Liriope blooming?
Foliage does well under shaded conditions, but blooms and fruit are diminished without sufficient sun. To get blooms from shade-planted liriopes, open up the shade to let in fuller sun, or move your liriopes to a sunny area.
What This Ground Cover Looks Like and Where It Grows
The blades of Liriope spicata reach, at most, 1 foot in height, with a narrower spread. This is a clump-forming perennial, which further associates...
A Comparison Between L. Spicata and L. Muscari
L. muscari is bigger than L. spicata. The former can reach a height of 18 inches and a width of 12 inches. L. muscari is also less hardy (only to U...
Sun and Soil Requirements For Liriope Plants
Liriope plants can be grown in partial shade, although they also double as sun-plants. They profit from water, but as long as you plant them in par...
A Caveat in Growing Liriope Plants
These ornamental grass look-alikes spread via rhizomes, and are vigorous growers, to the point of being considered invasive plants in some regions....
Liriope Varieties
The two most common liriopes in landscaping are common lilyturf (Liriope muscari) and creeping lilyturf (L. spicata).
Liriope Care
Liriope does best in a fertile, moist, well drained soil with a pH slightly acidic to neutral. It tolerates sandy as well as clayey soils, but never soil conditions that stay soggy. Liriope grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun or full shade. Once established, it is drought tolerant.
What is the best pH for Liriope?
Soil pH Preference. Liriope grows best in a moderately acid to neutral soil ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 on the pH scale.
How to test soil drainage for Liriope?
To test soil drainage, dig a hole 12" wide by 12" deep. Fill the hole with water and let it drain. Then, after it drains, fill it with water again, ...
What is the best way to plant a plant in poor soil?
When planting in heavy clay or poor soils mix in organic matter such as composted manure or a good planting mix at a 50/50 ratio with the soil. When planting in a sandy, quick-draining soil amending with top soil, organic compost, or peat moss will help to retain moisture and supply vital plant nutrients.
How to remove a plant from a pot?
To remove your plant from the container it was growing in first squeeze the sides of the pot to loosen root ball. Then, firmly grasp the base of the plant and gently lift and remove it from its container. If the root ball is stuck in the container use a snipping tool or utility knife to cut the container away.
How to plant more than one plant in a row?
If there will be more than one row of plants, begin by setting out or marking one straight row of plants. It's best to start along the edge of the planting bed making sure to space plants at a distance far enough from the edge of the planting bed to allow for future spreading.
How to raise pH in soil?
To raise the pH (make more alkaline) you can add pelletized limestone to the soil. To lower the pH (make more acid) you can apply Soil Sulfur, Aluminum Sulfate, or Chelated Iron. Adding organic compost to the soil or using compost as mulch can also help to increase acidity and maintain acid soil conditions.
What is the easiest plant to grow?
When planted right and in the right spot, Liriope are among the easiest plants to grow. They are ideal for use in the landscape massed as groundcover, in groupings, or as a border edger along walkways, paths and other structural surfaces. They provide a nice grassy texture and flower color in mixed container gardens.
How far apart should I plant blue lily turf?
Because blue lily turf has a 1-foot spread, space plants 12 inches apart to form a continuous border around flower beds or islands. Some newer cultivars are improved variations of the species, such as 'Cleopatra' (Liriope muscari 'Cleopatra'), a perennial in USDA zones 5 through 9. 'Cleopatra' has dark green leaves and grows 24 inches tall, compared to a maximum height of 18 inches of the species. Space 'Cleopatra' further apart -- 15 inches -- to accommodate its mature spread, instead of the standard 12-inch spacing of the species.
How does creeping lily turf spread?
It spreads by rhizomes, which are modified stems that form an underground network of continuous growth. Because creeping lily turf forms a carpet of greenery , it excels as a dense ground cover. But it lacks the restraint of blue lily turf, which makes it unsuitable as a border plant for flower beds or islands.
What is the difference between mondo grass and lily grass?
Mondo grass is sometimes called “little monkey grass” because compared to lily turf, it doesn’t grow quite as tall and its leafy blades are thinner, typically just 1/8 inch wide. In shady areas where it’s a challenge to grow turf grass, mondo grass is a suitable alternative.
How tall does a cleopatra grow?
'Cleopatra' has dark green leaves and grows 24 inches tall, compared to a maximum height of 18 inches of the species.
Is lily turf the same as mondo grass?
Lily turf and mondo grass are commonly mistaken for one another, but on second glance, their differences are clear. In U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 11, mondo grass is a suitable ground cover for shady areas. The leaves, which resemble grass, curve backward. The two primary lily turf species have distinctive growth ...
How big do liriopes grow?
Most liriopes grow to a height between 10 and 18 inches. Liriope muscari generally grows in a clump form and will spread to about 12 to 18 inches wide. Liriope spicata spreads rapidly by underground stems (rhizomes) and will cover a wide area.
What is a Liriope?
Liriope can be used as a groundcover under trees and shrubs and as a massed planting on slopes and banks. Liriope muscari and its cultivars can also be used as low edging plants along paved areas or in front of foundation plantings.
What are the two types of lilyturfs?
There are two major species grown in our area: big blue lilyturf ( Liriope muscari) and creeping lilyturf ( L. spicata ). These two evergreen lilyturf species have slightly different growth habits and degrees of hardiness, but both are favorite landscaping plants. Both plants form mounds of grass-like foliage.
What is the size of a big blue lilyturf?
Big Blue Lilyturf ( Liriope muscari ): This lilyturf grows in a clump form, making it well-suited for edging. The leaves are a little wider (3/8 to ½-inch wide) and the flowers somewhat bigger than those of creeping lilyturf.
When does a lilyturf bloom?
Ornamental Features. Lilyturf forms a dense evergreen groundcover with a grass-like appearance. It blooms in July to August with lavender, purple, pink or white flower spikes. Although the flowers are individually small, they are very showy, since each plant has many spikes of blooms.
How far away should I plant liriope muscari?
Plant both Liriope muscari and Liriope spicata approximately 1 foot away from other plants in an area that receives sun at least half of the day.
How tall does Liriope Muscari grow?
If your landscaping plans call for a less-aggressive plant, try Liriope muscari. It will typically only spread 8 to 18 inches and will grow 12 to 18 inches tall for more distinctive plant clusters that won't overtake your garden.
How big does a creeping lilyturf grow?
According to the Missouri Botanical Garden, you can expect a single Liriope spicata plant to spread out 12 to 24 inches and grow 8 to 18 inches tall.
Why is my Liriope plant turning brown?
Fungi also cause root rot, which causes brown discoloration from the bottom of the plant upward. The immediate culprit is usually a fungus, but the true cause is wet conditions. If you often need to water plants near liriope, switch to a more precise method such as drip irrigation versus a sprinkler system.
Is liriope deer resistant?
It provides visual interest year-round except in the colder zones, where the leaves may die back in winter. The deer- and rabbit-resistant nature of liriope also makes it popular for suburban and rural gardens.
Can you dig up a liriope after rain?
If the problem occurs after a typical bout of rain, you may need to temporarily dig up the liriope, amend the soil in its bed to break up the water-loving clay soils and then replant the liriope. Garden beds in low-lying areas may need to be populated with different plants altogether.
Do liriopes need full sun?
Liriope will grow just fine in both full sun and partial shade, but flowers are most likely to be abundant in full sun. According to Clemson Cooperative Extension, liriopes are also not picky about the type of soil in which they grow (clay vs. sand-based, for example) or the nutrient content of the soil. They thrive despite hot summer temperatures, droughts or coastal saltwater exposure. The only essential tip to keep in mind when choosing a planting location for liriope is to ensure the soil drains well, as they do not last long in swampy environments.
How to split a liriope?
When splitting liriope, growers will first need to dig up the plant and remove the root ball from the garden. Once the plant has been removed, carefully cut through the root ball using a sharp serrated knife or shovel for larger clumps. This process can then be repeated until the plant has been divided into the desired number.
Can you divide a liriope?
How to Divide a Liriope. Although dividing liriope is not a mandatory part of its care routine, there are reasons why a grower may want to do so. Splitting liriope is an extremely easy and cost-effective way to increase the amount of plants in the garden, or to begin the process of establishing new flower beds.
Can liriope be divided?
For this reason, most recommend that liriope plant division is the choice of the gardener. Liriope plants will continue to grow well for many years, despite not being frequently divided.
Do liriopes need to be divided?
Does Liriope Need to Be Divided? Beyond planting, liriope requires little care from homeowners. Resistant to most diseases, these plants grow larger and may spread from one season to the next. Consistent irrigation and fertilization will further assist in the establishment of healthy plantings.
Is Liriope a perennial?
By: Tonya Barnett, (Author of FRESHCUTKY ) Printer Friendly Version. Image by undefined undefined. Liriope , or lilyturf, is a hardy perennial plant. This extremely popular evergreen is perfect for use as a low maintenance groundcover or for use as a border plant along sidewalks and pavers. It can also be used as an alternative to grass in lawns.
How far apart should I plant Liriope spicata?
Liriope spicata is best used as a ground cover but L. muscari makes a perfect edging. Plant each Lilyturf one foot (30 cm.) apart. Keep the plants moderately moist but never soggy.
What is a liriope grass?
Liriope Grass Edging: How To Plant A Border Of Monkey Grass. Liriope is a tough grass that is often used as a border plant or lawn alternative. There are two main species used, both of which are easy to care for and have few pest or disease problems.
Is Liriope muscari invasive?
When you plant Liriope spicata, you will end up with a creeping groundcover that, in some situations, can become invasive. Liriope muscari is a clumping form that will eventually set out offsets and increase the plant’s presence. It makes an excellent and easily controlled grass edging.
Height/Spread
Ornamental Features
- Lilyturf forms a dense evergreen groundcover with a grass-like appearance. It blooms in July to August with lavender, purple, pink or white flower spikes. Although the flowers are individually small, they are very showy, since each plant has many spikes of blooms. Clusters of bluish black berry-like fruit follow the flowers.
Landscape Use
- Liriope can be used as a groundcover under trees and shrubs and as a massed planting on slopes and banks. Liriope muscariand its cultivars can also be used as low edging plants along paved areas or in front of foundation plantings. Liriope is remarkably tough. It will grow in deep shade or full sun, sand or clay. It can endure heat, drought and salt spray, but will not take “wet feet”; it req…
Problems
- Reddish-brown spots that appear along leaf margins and leaf tips are caused by a fungal disease known as anthracnose, which is caused by Colletotrichumspecies. This disease becomes more prevalent with frequent rainfall or overhead irrigation. It causes a rapid dieback of the foliage. The fungus can remain over-winter in dead foliage. Mow or trim off last year’s leaves in late winter t…
Species & Cultivars
- Big Blue Lilyturf (Liriope muscari): This lilyturf grows in a clump form, making it well-suited for edging. The leaves are a little wider (3/8 to ½-inch wide) and the flowers somewhat bigger than those of creeping lilyturf. 1. ‘Majestic’ is a strong grower that grows to 12 to 15 inches tall. It has large, showy, deep lilac flowers and ½-inch wide dark foliage. 2. ‘Monroe’s White’ has bright whit…