PlantDetails

Plant Code L4050

Botanical Name:Ophiopogon japonicus

Common Name:Mondo Grass

Bloom Time:Prized for Foliage

Water Wise:No

Deer Resistant:Yes

Growth Rate:Fast

Average Size:6-10" H x 18" W

Spacing:12-18"

Flower Color:No flowers

Cold Hardiness:Zone 5
(-10 to -20°F)

Light:Part Sun
Morning Sunlight Only

Additional
Information

Deer resistant but not deer proof-depending on scarcity of food.

Botanical Name:Ophiopogon japonicus

Common Name:Mondo Grass

Uses:

Ground Cover, Mass Planting, Beds and Borders

Attributes:

• Dense, grass-like foliage
• Mounding groundcover
• Bluish black berries
• Shade tolerant

Plant Type or Function - Ground Cover

Ground Covers are low-growing plants used in the landscape to cover large areas of ground.  They are often used to create blankets of foliage in and around shrubs and trees to unify the landscape or as a filler between stepping stones.  In addition, they are wonderful for erosion control on slopes or banks, or as a lawn substitute in areas too shady to support the growth of turf grasses. Ground covers are much lower maintenance than turf grass utilizing less water and eliminating costly and time consuming mowing, edging and trimming. This group of plants encompasses everything from vines to low-growing perennials and shrubs.  A broad range of plants that range from 1" to 24" tall.  Some fast growing annuals can also be considered ground covers for large flower beds.

Planting and Care Information

Planting

• Prepare the area for planting by conditioning the soil. Loosen the soil and incorporate an organic soil conditioner according to directions.
• Dig a hole 2 times the width of the root ball and a depth slightly less than the height of the root ball. Allow the top surface of the root ball to rest 1/2 inch higher than the soil line.
• For container grown plants, carefully remove plant by squeezing container and slowly removing the root ball. Never pull on the plant trunk. Instead let the root ball slide out by tipping the container. If the plant is heavily rooted, loosen roots by gently pulling a few away from the root ball. This encourages stronger root growth. Set root ball in hole making sure the top of the root ball is slightly higher (1/2 inch) than ground level. Place soil mix under root ball if too low. Backfill soil mix around plant to ground level and tamp lightly removing all air pockets.
• For biodegradable pots, follow the directions on the container.
• For bare root plants, trim any broken, twisted or discolored tips. Determine the original soil line by the change in color on the plant trunk. Set the plant in the hole so the soil line is above the surrounding soil. Space the roots evenly. Backfill soil mix around and between the roots and tamp lightly removing all air.
• Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the plant. Add more soil mix around plant if necessary after watering. Apply root stimulator to encourage new root growth and fast establishment.
• If a large plant; build a soil ring around the plant, 6" beyond the edge of the hole, to use as water reservoir to assist in watering until established.
• Add a 2-3" layer of mulch around plant to conserve soil moisture and eliminate future weeds.
• For large shrubs, it may be necessary to secure the trunk by using three stakes placed at equal distances around the plant.

Fertillization

• Fertilize just before and during the plants active growing cycle. Fertilization should begin just prior to new growth and end three or four weeks before the first frost.
• Choose an all-purpose fertilizer recommended for flowering and/or foliage plants. Frequency will depend on the type of fertilizer. Liquid (water soluble) and granular quick release fertilizer, require more frequent application; slow release granular fertilizer requires less.
• When using granular fertilizer be sure to sprinkle fertilizer pellets away from the plant stems or trunk to prevent possible burning and always water thoroughly after application. This dissolves or releases the fertilizer into the soil. Apply water soluble fertilizer by thoroughly drenching the leaves and soil.
• Always follow fertilizer package directions.

Pruning

• Prune as required to keep plants a desired size or shape.
• Encourage new blooms by cutting off dead or faded flowers.
• Plants with branches originating from the roots of the plant need to be selectively pruned. Prune by removing the oldest branches completely. This will allow new, more productive branches to develop and produce flowers.
• Remove damaged or dead limbs back to live wood.
• When pruning, make angled cuts just above the bud.
• Use proper tools such as shears, hand pruners, pole pruners and pruning saws. Make sure all equipment is clean and sharp.
• Fertilize after pruning to help speed new growth.

Watering

• New plants require more frequent watering than established plants. After planting check for water regularly until fully rooted and established.
• For large plants; build a soil ring around the plant to use as a water reservoir. This will assist in watering until the plant is established.
• Always water slowly and deeply making sure the root ball is completely saturated.
• Don't water at night if possible. Watering in the morning helps prevent disease.
• If new plant wilts between watering, increase the frequency of watering.
• Plants in hot, humid or sunny areas need more frequent watering than plants in cool climates.
• Plants in containers may require more frequent watering than plants in the ground. This will depend on plant variety, pot size and soil.
• Add a 2-3"" layer of organic mulch around plant to maintain and conserve soil moisture. Mulch will reduce watering frequency and speed root establishment.

Product Checklist

• Planting MixPromotes strong healthy growth and more flowers
• Potting SoilReady to use mix for indoor and outdoor containers and hanging baskets
• Plant StarterHelps plants quickly establish to their new home
• Slow Release FertilizerFeeds for months with one application. Safe to use on new plantings
• Organic MulchPrevents weeds for months, saves water and beautifies
• Planting ToolsShovels, trowels, picks and other tools to make planting easy
• Weed Control FabricMulti-year weed control. Lets air, water, and nutrients though, not weeds
• Soaker HoseEasy to use, conserves water, and reduces chance of leaf diseases
• Landscape EdgingKeeps beds defined, easy to maintain, and free of lawn grass
• Pruning ShearsRegular pruning encourages branching to promote thick coverage

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