The Grass Won't Grow Around My Wisteria

Causes

• Wisteria develops deep roots and heavy, climbing vines. It requires deep, well-drained soil and full sun. As the plant matures, and especially while it is flowering, it may produce shade. The plant's roots are likely competing with the grass for moisture and nutrients, or the grass may not receive enough sun for adequate growth.

Benefits

• Wisteria -- as well as other shrubs, small trees and vines -- grows better when the soil around the base of the plant is free of grass or other plants. Maintain a plant-free area at least 2 or 3 feet in diameter around the base of the plant to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture, and eliminate the risk of lawn mower injury. Mulch the soil with gravel or wood chips.

Solutions

• If the wisteria spreads over an arbor, grass may not grow underneath the arbor due to shade. Try pruning the wisteria slightly to increase the amount of sunlight that penetrates the ground. Replace the grass with shade-tolerant grass varieties, such as fine fescue, or plant shade-loving perennials or ground covers instead. Try vinca, leadwort, hosta, sweet woodruff or ivy. Another option would be to pave the area underneath the arbor with bricks or pavers and add a bench for an outdoor living space.

Placement

• Wisteria needs a strong support, but it doesn't need to be an arbor. Train wisteria to the side of a building instead so it doesn't shade the ground. Secure sturdy galvanized wires in the soil 4 inches apart for the plant to climb on. Avoid placing the wires in areas where the wisteria may clog gutters or obstruct windows.