Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic Jasmine

Planting Instructions for Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic Jasmine:

1. Location & Soil Preparation: Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine thrives in a variety of conditions, but it does best in well-draining soil. It tolerates sandy, loamy, and even clay soils, but improving drainage with compost or organic matter is beneficial if your soil tends to hold moisture. It grows well in both full sun and partial shade, though the variegation (white and pink leaves) becomes more pronounced with more sunlight.
2. Planting Depth & Spacing: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep as the root ball itself. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Space plants 18-24 inches apart for use as ground cover or in group plantings, as they will spread and fill in over time.
3. Initial Watering: After planting, water thoroughly to help the roots establish. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks. A 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the plants helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to prevent rot.

Care Instructions:

1. Watering: Once established, Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. In the first year, water deeply once a week during dry spells to encourage strong root growth. After that, water only when the top 2-3 inches of soil become dry. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
2. Fertilization: In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (like 10-10-10) to encourage new growth. If the soil is nutrient-rich, fertilizing once a year is generally sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can result in more green foliage and less of the pink-and-white variegation.
3. Monitoring: Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine is relatively pest- and disease-free, but occasionally aphids, scale, or mealybugs may appear. If necessary, treat pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keep an eye on the soil moisture levels to prevent root rot, which can occur in overly wet conditions.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care:

1. Pruning: While Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine is a low-maintenance ground cover, it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune in early spring before new growth begins, removing any dead or damaged stems. Trim lightly throughout the growing season if needed to keep it within its desired boundaries.
2. Ground Cover or Climbing: Asiatic jasmine is most often used as a ground cover, where it spreads to create a dense, mat-like cover. It can also be trained to climb on trellises or walls, although it may require light support to do so. For ground cover use, occasional trimming helps it stay neat and controlled.
3. Pest and Disease Control: Snow-N-Summer™ is hardy and resistant to most pests and diseases. In poorly draining soil, however, root rot can become an issue, so ensure the soil stays well-drained. If you notice yellowing leaves or wilting, check the soil moisture and improve drainage if necessary.
4. Winter Protection: This jasmine variety is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, where it can survive mild winters. In colder climates (below USDA zone 7), protect it by adding a layer of mulch over the roots in late fall to insulate against frost. The plant may die back in winter but will regrow in spring.

Container and Hanging Basket Planting for Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic Jasmine:

Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine is an excellent choice for container gardening, including hanging baskets, thanks to its compact, trailing habit and colorful, variegated foliage. Here’s how to plant and care for this versatile plant in containers or hanging baskets:

Container/Hanging Basket Planting Instructions:

1. Choosing a Container or Basket: Select a container or hanging basket with good drainage holes. For hanging baskets, a 12-14 inch basket works well, allowing the jasmine to cascade beautifully over the sides. Ensure the container is deep enough to accommodate the root system, with a depth of at least 6-8 inches.
2. Potting Mix: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. A mix that includes perlite or sand will improve drainage, which is essential for preventing root rot. You can also add some compost or organic matter for extra nutrients.
3. Planting Depth: Plant the Snow-N-Summer™ jasmine at the same depth as it was in its nursery pot, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil. For hanging baskets, plant in the center, or for larger baskets, plant several evenly spaced to allow even coverage as the vines grow and cascade.
4. Initial Watering: After planting, water the container thoroughly to help the plant settle into the new soil. Ensure that excess water drains from the bottom of the pot. If the basket or container is hanging, check that water reaches all parts of the soil evenly.

Care Instructions for Containers and Hanging Baskets:

1. Watering: Containers and hanging baskets dry out more quickly than garden beds. Water regularly, especially during hot or windy weather, but allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings to avoid waterlogged roots. Hanging baskets may need daily watering in very hot conditions.
2. Fertilization: Feed your Snow-N-Summer™ jasmine with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (like 10-10-10) once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Alternatively, use a diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks to keep the plant healthy and promote vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this may reduce the intensity of the variegation.
3. Light: For the most vibrant white and pink variegation, place the container or hanging basket in full sun. Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine can also tolerate partial shade, but in low light, the pink and white variegation may fade, and the plant may produce more green leaves.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance:

1. Pruning: In containers and hanging baskets, occasional light pruning will help keep the plant compact and encourage bushier growth. Trim back any leggy or overgrown stems as needed. You can prune more heavily in late winter or early spring to shape the plant before the growing season.
2. Pest Control: Pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites may sometimes affect container-grown plants. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal problems, especially in humid conditions.
3. Repotting: Every 2-3 years, check to see if the plant has outgrown its container. If the roots are circling the bottom of the pot, it’s time to repot into a slightly larger container. When repotting, refresh the soil mix and prune back any overgrown roots.
4. Winter Care: In USDA zones 7-10, Snow-N-Summer™ jasmine can stay outdoors year-round. In colder climates, bring the containers indoors or to a sheltered spot before frost arrives. If moving indoors, place the container near a sunny window or under grow lights to mimic the sunlight it receives outdoors. Reduce watering during winter dormancy, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.

Outdoor Hanging Basket Care:

1. Wind Protection: Hanging baskets can be more exposed to wind, which can dry out the soil quickly. Check the moisture level regularly, especially on windy days, and consider moving baskets to more sheltered locations if necessary.
2. Sunlight Exposure: Hanging baskets can be placed in full sun or partial shade, but for the best foliage color, ensure they receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. The bright pink, white, and green variegation of Snow-N-Summer™ is most vivid with more sun exposure.
3. Maintenance: Regularly check the soil moisture, and prune as needed to maintain a tidy, trailing appearance. Fertilize monthly during the growing season to support its growth in the confined space of a hanging basket.

By following these steps, Snow-N-Summer™ Asiatic jasmine will thrive in containers or hanging baskets, creating a striking display of pink, white, and green foliage.