How to Grow Jessamine Vines

Overview

Jessamine vine (Gelsemium sempervirens) is a beautiful vine commonly found in the southeast. It is the state flower of South Carolina and also known as Carolina jessamine. Jessamine vine is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. The vines can grow up to 20 feet and bloom with yellow flowers in late winter and early spring.

Step 1

Choose a location that is in partial shade or full sun. You can plant the vine in the ground or in a container. It will grow up and along walls, trellises, arbors and fences. It can also be used as a ground cover, especially on sloped areas where growing jessamine vines can help control erosion.

Step 2

Add organic matter, such as peat moss or compost, to your soil if it is not already rich and well draining. Mix a couple inches of the organic matter in with your existing soil to make ideal conditions for jessamine vines. For containers, use all-purpose potting soil.

Step 3

Plant multiple jessamine vines 3 feet apart if using as a ground cover. Otherwise, space about 4 to 8 feet apart when growing the vines on walls, trellises, arbors and fences. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the vine's pot. Remove the vine from the container and place it in the center of the hole. Backfill with soil, pat down and water well to remove air pockets. Mulch the area to help retain moisture.

Step 4

Water your jessamine vine periodically during the growing season, especially during dry spells.

Step 5

Fertilize in the spring using a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's directions, as each fertilizer has unique strength and release rates.

Step 6

Prune older and top-heavy vines, dead and broken branches after flowering in the spring. Cut to about 3 feet above the ground. You can also prune to shape your vine after flowering. For jessamine vines used as ground covers, mow the vine down every three years after flowering. In between years, cut the vine back to about 3 feet. This will help it remain thick and dense.

Step 7

Keep potted jessamine vines warm during freezing temperatures. Wrap blankets around the container and place a couple inches of mulch on top of the soil. You do not need to do anything for vines planted in the ground.