We have (er, had) four areas of vigorous creeping jenny that has been highly satisfactory for 6 or 7 years. Yes, it must be picked and controlled to prevent spreading beyond the desired area. I do it with a string trimmer.

This Spring, for the first time ever, small catepillars starting going through the plants. We killed the critters, but even where there were no catepillars (2 of the 4 areas), the plants have just "shrunk"; the leaves are about one half or less than the size of a vigorously growing plant --- this has allowed weeds to grow, which pretty much defeats the entire purpose of a ground cover.

Does this cultivar have a "life span?" Does anyone know what might be happening? I see no alternative but to dig up these patches and start over. Ugh.