Known as bugleweed, Ajuga, is a fast spreading ground cover that does a good job of suppressing weeds. It spreads via stolons that can produce new plants, so it's best planted in an area where it has the freedom to spread and take over. It has shiny, dark leaves and purple or lavender flower spikes in the spring. Ajuga is attractive to pollinators, and because it has a strong root system, it does well holding soil in place on a hillside. The foliage is evergreen and can offer some color all year long.

Start Ajuga seeds indoors about 6 - 8 weeks before the end of frost season. Transplant out once there is no danger of frost.

Plant Ajuga in partial shade and in rich, moist soil that drains well. Do not plant it next to a grass lawn because it will spread right into the grass.

• Fill trays with moistened seed starting mix
• Press the seeds into the soil and keep the soil moist but not soggy
• Place trays in a bright, warm area for germination
• Maintain constant moisture by misting the seeds every day
• As temperatures begin to warm outside, harden off the Ajuga seedlings for 7 - 10 days prior to transplanting outside
• Transplant outdoors with a space of 6 - 9 inches apart

• Ajuga prefers moist soil, so irrigate regularly - especially during dry periods
• Fertilizers are usually not needed
• Pruning is important to keep Ajuga in check - plan on 2 hard prunings each year, cutting runners back
• Shear off the spent blooms - a lawn mower at a high setting will work for this job when there is a large area to trim
• If the ground cover has become too dense, remove a few plants in the fall to allow for more room to spread