Speedwell plants, also known as Veronica, can indeed spread in the garden. The spreading habit of Speedwell varieties can vary depending on the specific cultivar. Some varieties spread by both underground rhizomes and self-seeding, while others have sterile seeds and do not spread as freely or quickly.
When it comes to spreading through rhizomes, Speedwell plants have underground stems that can grow horizontally and produce new shoots. This can result in the plant spreading and forming new clumps or colonies. If left unchecked, Speedwell can quickly take over an area of the garden.
In terms of self-seeding, some Speedwell varieties produce seeds that can fall to the ground and germinate, leading to new plants. These seeds can be dispersed by wind, animals, or even gardeners inadvertently spreading them around. This self-seeding behavior can contribute to the spread of Speedwell in the garden.
To control the spread of Speedwell, especially if you have a variety that has a more aggressive spreading habit, there are a few measures you can take:
1. Regular maintenance: Keep an eye on your Speedwell plants and remove any seedlings or new shoots that appear in unwanted areas. This can be done by hand-pulling or carefully digging out the young plants.
2. Deadheading: To prevent self-seeding, deadhead the flowers of Speedwell plants before they have a chance to produce seeds. This will help limit the spread of the plant through self-seeding.
3. Division: If your Speedwell plants are spreading too aggressively, you can consider dividing them. Dig up the clumps and separate them into smaller sections, replanting them in desired areas. This can help control their spread while still allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Speedwell in your garden.
4. Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around Speedwell plants can help suppress the growth of weeds and prevent the seeds from reaching the soil. This can be particularly useful in areas where you want to limit the spread of Speedwell.
5. Regular pruning: Pruning Speedwell plants can help maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming too leggy or sprawling. By regularly cutting back the stems, you can encourage a more compact growth habit and discourage excessive spreading.
In my own experience, I have grown Speedwell in my garden and found that some varieties can indeed spread quite aggressively. I had a cultivar that had both rhizomes and self-seeding tendencies, and if left unchecked, it would quickly take over neighboring plants. However, by implementing the control measures mentioned above, I was able to manage its spread and enjoy its beautiful flowers without it becoming invasive.
Speedwell plants have the potential to spread in the garden, but with regular maintenance, careful deadheading, and the occasional division, you can keep their spread in check and enjoy their lovely blooms without them taking over your entire landscape.
