Columbia Needlegrass

Vanilla leaf (Achlys triphylla) should be watered as needed depending on the soil, temperature, and environment. During the summer months, it will need to be watered more often than in the winter months. The soil should be kept consistently moist, not overly saturated. In the summer, check the soil's moisture level daily and water if needed. During the autumn and winter months, watering can be reduced, only when the soil is noticeably dry. For maximum health, fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer about once a month during the growing season.

Vanilla Leaf (Achlys triphylla) plants do best when they receive full sunlight (6 to 8 hours per day). Sunlight helps to promote healthy growth and development as well as encourage blooms. While this species can tolerate partial shade, it is important to provide as much sun as possible. For best results, aim to provide direct sunlight in the morning hours, followed by dappled light in the afternoon or early evening. Aim to provide at least 4 hours of sun each day, and up to 8 hours is ideal for this species.

Vanilla Leaf plants can be pruned annually to keep their shape and size in check. The best time to prune is in the early spring, just after the last frost of the season. Start by pruning away any dead wood and snipping out any weak or spindly shoots to encourage healthy growth. To maintain a compact shape, selectively prune any branches that are growing too tall or wide. When pruning, use clean, sharp pruning shears and make sure to make clean cuts that are flush with the plant. Avoid cutting through the main stem of the plant since it may cause damage and encourage disease. Make sure to remove any diseased or pest-infested branches. Pruning is important for the health and vitality of the plant, so don’t be afraid to prune away any parts of the plant that are not performing optimally.