# Liriope Plant Care
Liriope, commonly called lilyturf, features two popular species: Liriope spicata (creeping lilyturf) and Liriope muscari (big blue lilyturf). This evergreen plant looks similar to dark green grass. Liriope is typically planted as a groundcover. Creeping lilyturf is invasive, but big blue lilyturf can be safely used as a flowerbed border without it taking over the bed. Liriope produces lavender, purple or white blossom clusters on flower spikes, followed by blue-black berries. Liriope will grow in nearly any soil as long as it is well-draining. Liriope thrives either in the shade or full sun.
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Propagating
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Divide liriope plants every 3 to 4 years to increase the lilyturf population. Dig up the large clumps of liriope. Wash away the soil from the roots with a strong stream of water. Separate individual plants and plant them in the ground immediately. Division in not necessary to keep liriope flowering.
Planting
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Prepare the soil by breaking it up to a depth of 6 inches. Rake it level, and space the liriope about 1 foot apart. Place the crown of the plants near the soil line in staggered rows. Liriope grows quickly and will fill in the area.
Watering
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Thoroughly water once a week. Soak the soil until it is wet to a depth of 6 inches. This should supply all the moisture needs of the liriope. Mulch with chopped leaves, pine straw or pine bark to reduce weed growth and moisture loss.
Feeding
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Feed the liriope with a general purpose garden fertilizer in the early spring and mid-summer. After fertilizing, rinse the fertilizer off the liriope foliage to prevent fertilizer burn. Water also will help the fertilizer work its way down to the roots.
Mowing
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Mowing last year’s foliage in the late winter keeps the liriope looking attractive. Check that the crowns of the plants are near the soil line so they are not injured by the mower. All growth starts at the liriope crowns. Mowing allows new growth to emerge in the spring without the old foliage getting in the way.
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