Getting your garden off to a fast start can be difficult, but with some smart plantings and careful attention, you’ll have an amazingly lush and green lawn before you know it! Creeping Speedwell (Veronica repens) are one of the fastest-growing plants around, making them perfect for jump-starting your gardening season. What’s more, they offer rich color throughout the growing season and attract lots of pollinators as well as beneficial insects like spiders to your garden! Learn how to grow creeping speedwell so you can enjoy these benefits in no time at all.
Why Use Creeping Speedwell?
Creeping speedwell, or Veronica repens, is a perennial ground cover that forms delicate mats of leaves and flowers. The flowers are blue to lavender in color and usually appear in the spring. It can be planted in fall for blooms the following spring or spring for blooms the following fall. This plant thrives on neglect and will grow quickly without much attention. If it does get weeded out, creeping speedwell will often come back from its roots to regrow.
Planting Time
Creeping speedwell is an excellent ground cover for rock gardens, flower beds and mulched areas. Plant creeping speedwell in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Dig a hole about six inches deep and three times the width of the container that you have planted your creeping speedwell in. Add a handful of organic material such as compost or aged manure to the bottom of the hole, and then place your pot on top of this so that it is situated firmly on top of the ground.
Planting Methods
Creeping speedwell is a tough and attractive ground cover. It is easy to plant and care for, making it a good choice for new gardeners. The best time to plant creeping speedwell is in the spring, but you can also plant it in the fall. Plant it at least two inches deep and water regularly, especially during dry spells. In order to keep creeping speedwell looking its best, cut back any flower stalks that arise before they start flowering and fertilize annually.
Maintenance, Harvest and Other Uses
Creeping speedwell is a great plant to have in the garden. It grows really easily and can be cut back after flowering to make more plants. To maintain your creeping speedwell, cut it back after flowering and water regularly. Harvesting of creeping speedwell flowers is recommended after they have been open for one day. You can also use this flower in salads or as a garnish.
