Dichondra

Q. I heard on the radio that dichondra is a very good ground cover to use in place of lawns. Do you have any information, please?

A. Dichondra repens is a warm season [zones 9-11] ground cover that grows close to the ground. It has broad, almost circular leaves and when mown low establishes a thick dense carpet look. Originally a weed, it is now used in many ground cover situations where normal grasses may not do as well. It has a bright green color and a cushion feel underfoot.

In its areas of origin it is highly resistant to diseases. Beautiful in landscaping areas of no maintenance where adapted, and does not need to be mown. When used in lawn situations it can be mown for an even, smooth finish. It needs well draining soils enriched with a lot of humus, and deep waterings, not shallow waterings. It should begin to get a wilted look when it needs watering.

Very good site with pictures and planting info:
http://www.greengold.com.au/greengold/CARENOTES/CARENOTES/dichondra.htm

Dichondra close-up Picture and more information:
http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Convolvulaceae/Dichondra_micrantha.html

Info summary: Varieties: none - Dichondra repens

Adaptation: Hotter and drier areas. Areas of little traffic is the best, it has very low wearablity. Not good for walking areas.

Preparation: Should be planted on a thoroughly prepared seedbed and weed-free from the beginning. Dichondra is very hard to remove weeds from and this step should be taken in the beginning. Fully pack the soil and lightly rake the surface and evenly spread the seed, evenly watering afterward.

Usage: Low maintenance areas and erosion control in some places. For naturalized areas among other plantings.

Watering: Needs a lot of water on a deep and infrequent basis and needs to slightly dry out between waterings. Too little watering results in problems if the soils is too heavy (clay types) and the water is too alkaline which in this case results in salt burn.

Mow: 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches depending upon traffic and shade. Weakness: Alternaria fungus (result of overwatering), fleabeetles and cutworms

Seeds available at www.seedland.com

Other info from: www.TurfGrasses.com