Overview
Dichondra repens auct. is a creeping perennial herb that belongs to the morning glory family Convolvulaceae. It is commonly known as kidney weed, dwarf ponysfoot, and dichondra. This plant is native to Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific islands but is now widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Appearance
Dichondra repens auct. has a prostrate growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2-3 inches. It has small, kidney-shaped, bright green leaves that are approximately 1/2 inch in diameter. The leaves are arranged alternately and have a smooth texture. The stem and leaves of the plant are hairless and have an almost rubbery feel to them. The plant produces small, inconspicuous white or yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Uses
Dichondra repens auct. is a popular ground cover plant that is frequently used in landscaping. It is often planted in between pavers, in rock gardens, and on slopes to reduce erosion. The plant is also used as a lawn substitute in areas with low foot traffic. Because of its short height and dense growth pattern, it creates a lush, carpet-like effect. Additionally, the plant is sometimes used in traditional medicine for its purported antidiabetic and antioxidant properties.
Care
Dichondra repens auct. is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. The plant can withstand light foot traffic and does not need to be mowed, but occasional trimming with shears may be necessary to keep it tidy.
Light Requirements
Dichondra repens auct. is a plant that requires bright light for optimal growth. It thrives best in full sun or partial shade conditions. When grown indoors, it is best placed in a bright area near a window that receives direct sunlight for several hours each day. If grown outside, the plant should be placed in an area with direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours each day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Dichondra repens auct. is between 60-75°F (15.5-24°C). The plant does not tolerate extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold. At low temperatures, the plant growth rate slows down, and the leaves start to wilt. At high temperatures, the leaves may scorch, and the plant may require frequent watering to prevent drying out.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is organically rich. The soil pH should be between 5.5-7.5 for the plant to grow optimally. It is essential to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can harm the plant and reduce its growth rate. The application of a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer can help improve the plant's foliage growth.
Cultivation Methods for Dichondra Repens Auct.
Dichondra repens auct. is a low-growing perennial herb commonly grown as ground cover. It is a warm-weather plant with a creeping growth habit and prefers to be grown in full sun or partial shade. If grown in full shade, it can become leggy and weak. It thrives in a well-drained soil that is kept moist but not soggy. It has a shallow root system and requires gentle cultivation, so avoid deep cultivation that could damage the plant.
Watering Needs for Dichondra Repens Auct.
The watering needs of Dichondra repens auct. are moderate. It prefers soil that is kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during hot and dry periods. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. Avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Dichondra Repens Auct.
Dichondra repens auct. requires minimal fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season, but be cautious not to over-fertilize. Too much fertilizer can cause excessive growth, which will require frequent pruning.
Pruning Dichondra Repens Auct.
Regular pruning helps maintain the appearance of Dichondra repens. It helps to control its tendency to become leggy. Trim or pinch off new growth tips and remove any yellowed or dead leaves. Do not remove more than 1/3 of the plant at a time to avoid stressing the plant.
Propagation of Dichondra repens
Dichondra repens can be propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces a small, black, and shiny seed that can be used for propagation. The seeds should be soaked in water for a day or two to promote germination before sowing them in soil. The ideal temperature for germination is around 70 °F (21.11 °C). The seedlings should be kept moist while they are establishing. This method of propagation is relatively slow, and it may take a few weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Vegetative Propagation
Dichondra repens can also be propagated through vegetative means. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in soil. The cuttings should be around six inches long, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting. The cutting should then be planted in moist soil, and a plastic bag can be used to create a mini-greenhouse. This method is faster than seed propagation, and the cuttings should root within a week or two.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Dichondra repens. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections and replanting them. The best time to do this is in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The sections of the plant should be carefully separated, and each section should have several roots and some top-growth. The sections can then be planted in moist soil and kept moist while they establish.
Overall, Dichondra repens is relatively easy to propagate, and many gardeners enjoy growing this plant as ground cover or for its trailing habit.
Disease Management for Dichondra Repens
One of the most common diseases that affect Dichondra repens is fungal leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora. The disease appears as small, circular reddish-brown spots on the leaves that eventually increase in size and form a tan center. To manage the disease, remove the infected leaves and ensure the plant is kept dry, limiting overhead irrigation. Fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil should be sprayed on the plant as soon as the disease appears to prevent further spread.
Another disease that affects Dichondra repens is Pythium root rot, especially in areas with poorly drained soils or overwatering. The disease causes the plant roots to decay, leading to wilt and death. To manage the disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure soil drainage is effective. Fungicide treatments containing ethazole, metalaxyl, or mefenoxam can be applied to prevent root rot infections.
Pest Management for Dichondra Repens
The most common pests affecting Dichondra repens are aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Aphids feed on the plant sap, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and the presence of sticky honeydew on the leaves. Thrips feed on the plant leaves and flowers, causing distortion and discoloration. Spider mites feed on the plant cells, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
To manage these pests, a simple solution of water and dish soap sprayed on the leaves can remove most of them. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings or using insecticidal soap or oil can also control the pests. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides as they may kill beneficial insects that are natural predators of the pests.
