Dichondra repens, a small leafed matting perennial native to the southeastern states, has received considerable attention in recent years as a lawn substitute in the South and on the West Coast in the U.S., in Greece, Italy and Spain. Sometimes called lawn leaf or pony foot, it spreads by under ground runners. The small kidney shaped leaves, about a half inch across, have a tendency to grow somewhat larger, with longer stems, in shade. In its massed effect, it has the appearance of clover, and the resulting thick sod is usually 1.5 - 2 inches high. It is surprisingly tolerant as far as various types of soil are concerned, and has proved to be successful in both the sun and shade. This plant stands light foot traffic. It suffers some frost damage at 20 degrees F. Once it is established it is a vigorous grower and readily self seeds.

 

Benefits:

• Will grow in full to partial shade,where bermudagrass cannot survive.
• Stays green in colder weather unlike bermudagrass.
• Low growing.
• Does not require mowing as frequently as bermudagrass.
• Spreads by underground runners and self seeds.

 

Planting Instructions:

• Plant at 1- 2 pounds per 1,000 Sq. Ft.
• Control weeds by pre-irrigating and cultivating before seeding.
• Use preplant fertilizer with at least 1 pound of actual nitrogen.
• Irrigate without letting the soil dry out between watering.
• Plant between May and August.