Mowing Jasmine Minima

Good-Bye Turf

• Jasmine minima's dark green foliage replaces turf with glossy, textured beauty. The plant's leathery, 2-inch leaves display prominent veins in shades of light green and rust. Variegated varieties exist as well. Whether in mass plantings around trees and shrubs or on its own, the plant grows up to 3 feet in width and 6 to 12 inches tall to form a dense carpet of fine foliage. Jasmine minima flowers infrequently when mowed, but the plant will bloom with small, pale-yellow, star-shaped flowers. Though not a true jasmine, its flowers produce a fragrance that gives rise to the common name.

Mowing Ease

• Mowing once each year will keep jasmine minima in line and looking good. Time mowing for late winter or early spring just as new growth begins. Although you can use weed whips and similar equipment, a regular mower works best. An even, manicured look results. Set your mower on the highest setting -- usually 4 inches -- and mow as you would your lawn. While annual mowing isn't necessary, it keeps this ground cover restrained. The plant grows vigorously by multiple spreading stems. If neglected over time, it can begin to climb and undergo physiological change. It can become quite aggressive in such circumstances.

Simple Needs

• Once established, jasmine minima requires only minimal care. The plant does best in full-sun locations with rich soil and ample moisture. However, it tolerates light levels from full sun to dense shade. It adapts easily to a variety of soils. Alkaline to acidic, clay to sand and loam -- jasmine minima makes a home in all. It tolerates drought and salt as well. Mature plants perform best when not nurtured. Too much water or fertilizer or even sun can promote unruly behavior. Normal rainfall suffices for the plant's watering needs. The dense growth makes weeding obsolete.

Minima Management

• Jasmine minima is best suited to areas that are not walked on but are regularly maintained. If planted along sidewalks, some additional pruning may be needed to control growth. This can be done with pruning shears. Simply prune any wayward stems. Sterilize your blades with household disinfectant before and after each cut to prevent the spread of disease. Jasmine minima has no pests or disease problems of major concern. Should you decide to forgo more turf and expand, jasmine minima's roots are so dense they can be cut and transplanted like sod.