~Baby Tears~

  Baby Tears forms a  lush mat of tiny, soft green leaves.  Used to create unique shapes and forms by shaping with a knife.  Good ground cover for shady locations or  between stepping stones, can be used in terrariums or hanging baskets.        

Bloom: Tiny, pinkish flowers from May to July.  Followed by a small clear seed (the "tear").

Habit: 1-2" tall, roots down as it spreads so will spread indefinitely. 

Exposure: Full sun to part shade. Foliage can burn down to the ground in a really hard freeze, but it will come back the next year.

Site:  Plant in somewhat moist, well drained soil.

Spreading rate:  Medium.

Fertilizing:  Feed in early spring and again lightly in early fall.  Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one containing a slow release nitrogen source.  Always follow the manufacturer's label recommendations when making any applications of fertilizer.  Be sure to rinse the fertilizer off the foliage.  

Watering:  Regular summer water should be provided the first couple of years to ensure good plant establishment and to promote maximum growth.  After that, water as needed. 

Pruning: Prune as you wish to control height and shape. 

Foot traffic:  Tolerates foot traffic.

Hardiness:  -30° to -20° F.