Plant Types

• A handful of cultivars exist of Carolina jasmine, such as Pride of Augusta and Margarita. The wild species form, grown from seed or cuttings, also is available from plant nurseries. Carolina jasmine grows in containers and is the primary mode of sale and distribution. Younger plants grow in small containers, such as 1 quart, while nurseries most often sell plants growing in 1- or 3-gallon pots. This evergreen vine grows quickly. Therefore, purchasing small-sized plants and containers saves money as well as time and labor involved in planting. Do not dig up plants in the ground and transplant, as too much root damage results.
  
  

When to Plant

• Container-grown plants may be planted any time of year the soil is workable -- not frozen and soil easily dug. Carolina jasmine naturally grows in regions with a relatively mild winter with long, hot and humid summer. Planting in summer may be done, but more stress develops on the vines since the intense sunlight and heat causes wilting if soil doesn't remain moist. An ideal time for planting across the southern U.S. is in autumn, from late September until about Thanksgiving. The comfortable weather with moist, cool soil allows Carolina jasmine roots to establish before midwinter. The plants begin to grow in early spring again, well before the onset of heat and seasonal drought in summer.
  
  

Soil Considerations

• Carolina jasmine is an adaptable plant. Site it in a full sun to partial shade exposure and in sandy, loam or clay soil types. An evenly moist but well-drained soil proves best, as drought stunts growth or causes the evergreen leaves to prematurely yellow and drop. Avoid bone-dry soils. Since this plant is native to woodland edges, it prospers in soils with organic matter such as fallen leaves, compost or well-rotted manure.
  
  

After-planting Care

• Monitor the soil of the newly planted Carolina jasmine's root ball and surrounding soil for the first year. If planted in autumn, water to keep the root ball moist. If the soil isn't frozen, you may need to water the plant to ensure the roots don't dry out. If planted in spring or summer, pay extra attention so the soil doesn't dry out as days get hotter. Water the vine freely during its first late spring to early fall period. Apply a balanced formula of liquid fertilizer monthly during this time, too. The result is a lush vine that quickly becomes well established and requires little care in subsequent years.