The care information provided in this section represents the kind of practical advice is available for all the plants in this web site if you subscribe to the monthly customized newsletter Yardener’s Advisor.
Watering
Winter creeper does not require supplemental watering except when its first planted, in time of drought, and in late fall before the ground freezes for the winter. In periods of drought provide these shrubs 1 gallon of water twice a week. Run a drip irrigation system or sprinkler for minutes twice a week. If water restrictions are in force, water by hand. Mulch these plants to minimize evaporation of the water from the soil. For information on products see the file on Choosing Watering Equipment
Fertilizing
Feed winter creeper once a year in the fall. Sprinkle a scant handful of fertilizer on the soil around each vine no closer than 2 inches to the trunk. For more information see the file for Fertilizer Products
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Mulching
Spread a 2 to 4 inch layer of some attractive organic material on the soil at the base of the winter creeper to protect it. Wood chips, chopped leaves, or shredded bark by themselves or over landscape fabric will discourage weeds and help retain moisture in the soil. Good mulch can reduce the rate of soil moisture loss by as much as 50 percent, depending on what material you use. For more information see the file on Using Mulch
Pruning/Grooming
Winter creepers respond well to shearing. Clip them to shape them and to remove dead wood. Cutting them back severely can sometimes rejuvenate older plants. Prune in early spring. For more information see the file Choosing Pruning Tools
Winter Protection
A really cold winter will cause some winter creeper foliage to turn brown, but the plants usually recover easily. Protect shrubs from winter wind and snow with burlap, evergreen boughs, or other screens. Make sure the plants get adequate air circulation. Where heavy snow and ice are common, tie branches loosely together or build small A-frames over the plants. See the files on Winter Protection For Plants and Plant Protection Supplies
