Ground cover plants are low-growing, spreading plants that help prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and add visual interest to your landscape. When selecting ground cover plants, consider factors like growth habit, maintenance requirements, sun and water needs, and overall aesthetic. Here are some popular ground cover plants:
Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum): This low-growing, aromatic plant produces tiny, colorful flowers and can tolerate light foot traffic. It’s suitable for pathways, rock gardens, or between stepping stones.
Sedum (Sedum spp.): These succulent plants come in various colors, textures, and forms, making them a versatile ground cover choice for sunny areas. Some popular varieties include ‘Angelina,’ ‘Dragon’s Blood,’ and ‘Blue Spruce.’
Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata): This perennial produces a carpet of vibrant, star-shaped flowers in spring and is ideal for covering slopes, rock gardens, or border fronts.
Ajuga (Ajuga reptans): Also known as Bugleweed, Ajuga forms dense, mat-like foliage and produces small, blue flowers. It’s suitable for shady areas and can help prevent soil erosion on slopes.
Vinca (Vinca minor): This evergreen perennial, also known as periwinkle, thrives in shady areas and produces blue or purple flowers. It’s effective in suppressing weeds and covering large areas quickly.
Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis): A popular choice for shady areas, Pachysandra is an evergreen ground cover that forms dense mats of glossy, dark green foliage.
Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum): This shade-loving perennial features delicate, star-shaped flowers and has a pleasant fragrance when crushed. It’s ideal for covering areas under trees or shrubs.
Irish Moss (Sagina subulata): This low-growing, moss-like plant creates a soft, cushiony surface and produces tiny white flowers. It’s suitable for rock gardens, between stepping stones, or along pathways.
Liriope (Liriope muscari): Also known as Lilyturf or Monkey Grass, Liriope forms neat, grass-like clumps and produces spikes of purple or white flowers.
Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina): This perennial features soft, silvery-gray foliage and is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for sunny, dry areas.
When planting ground cover plants, consider their mature size, sun and water requirements, and whether they are evergreen or deciduous. Space the plants according to their growth habits to create a continuous, attractive ground cover. Regular maintenance, such as pruning, trimming, or weeding, will help keep your ground cover plants healthy and looking their best.
