When to Plant Vinca

Planting Time

• Plant vinca during the spring months when the ground is a consistent 70 degrees Fahrenheit -- typically between Mother's Day and Memorial Day, according to the University of Illinois Extension website. This plant does not tolerate cool spring weather and turns yellow if the temperatures are too cool.

Soil Conditions

• Place the vinca plants in an area where it receives partial to full sunlight throughout the day. It thrives best in well-drained soil. Soggy conditions turn the plants yellow and may cause root and stem rot.

Size

• Vinca plants grow from 8 to 12 inches in height depending on the variety. It spreads to approximately 12 to 18 inches and produces blooms that are 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The leaves are a dark, glossy green.

Maintenance

• It is not necessary to deadhead the vinca plants. You can expect blooms from the spring months until a hard frost in the autumn. It is drought tolerant and blooms continuously even in intense heat.

Colors

• Color selections are abundant with the vinca plant. Choose from pale blue, salmon, apricot, white, pink, raspberry and burgundy flowers. The centers often have dark rose or red "eyes."

Watering Needs

• Many plants wilt when they need more water. The vinca plant rolls its leaves under to help it conserve moisture. Water the plant when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Check the soil often during the extreme heat of summer.