
Choosing classic groundcovers for your landscape can be a bit overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. There are many beautiful options to choose from that can add texture, color, and interest to your outdoor space.
Creeping Thyme is a low-maintenance option that can thrive in poor soil and withstand foot traffic, making it perfect for high-traffic areas. It's also a great choice for areas with poor drainage.
Vinca minor, on the other hand, is a fast-spreading groundcover that can quickly cover large areas, but it can be aggressive and invasive in some regions. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Phlox subulata is a low-growing, spreading groundcover that produces fragrant flowers in the spring and can tolerate some foot traffic. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Additional reading: Groundcovers for Shade
Classic Groundcovers
Classic groundcovers are a staple in any garden, and for good reason. They're low-maintenance, easy to care for, and can add a pop of color to even the most mundane areas.
Creeping lilyturf (Liriope spicata) is a great choice for dry, shady spots where other plants might struggle to survive. It can grow up to 18 inches tall and spread quickly, making it an ideal ground cover.
This drought-tolerant ground cover is quite tolerant of poor soils and is relatively drought-resistant, though it does prefer clay soil. Its rhizomes can spread quickly under favorable conditions, so it's best to keep an eye on it or restrict its growth with edging.
To keep your creeping lilyturf happy, water it deeply and infrequently, fertilize in early spring with a 10-10-10 slow-release fertilizer, and trim back each year to remove any old or wilted leaves. Mulch deeply to retain moisture and inhibit weed growth.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind when choosing a ground cover:
Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) is another great option for shade-loving areas. It carpets the ground with glossy green foliage and short spikes of vivid blue or violet flowers in late spring to early summer.
To keep bugleweed under control, prune it twice a year to prevent it from taking over a lawn or other plantings. It's also essential to provide good air circulation, especially in humid areas.
Dalmatian bellflower (Campanula portenschlagiana) is a low-maintenance perennial that thrives in full sun or partially shady areas. It can grow up to one foot tall and spread about three feet wide, making it perfect for filling in rock gardens or lining pathways.
To keep Dalmatian bellflower happy, water it about 1 inch per week (rain or irrigation), prune in early spring and after blooms fade, and provide moist, well-drained soil with good air circulation.
'Sweet Heidy' cranesbill (Geranium 'Sweet Heidy') is a one-of-a-kind ground cover that boasts beautiful, multicolored blooms that range from pink to purple with white centers. It's a great choice for sunny spots and well-drained soils.
To keep 'Sweet Heidy' cranesbill thriving, divide and replant it in the spring for thicker coverage, spread an organic mulch over the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, and cut back the plant in late summer to encourage new growth.
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Creeping Groundcovers
Creeping groundcovers are a great way to add some color and texture to your garden, and they're perfect for areas with poor soil or heavy foot traffic.
Creeping phlox (Phlox stolonifera) is a hardy perennial that can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. It's a great option for adding an accent of purple to your garden, and it's relatively low maintenance.
One of the best things about creeping phlox is its ability to hold in soil on slopes and prevent erosion. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained, acidic soil.
Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is another popular option for creeping groundcovers. It's a perennial that can tolerate light foot traffic and only grows three inches high, making it perfect for spaces between pavers.
Creeping thyme likes well-draining, slightly alkaline soil and plenty of full sun. It's also a great attractor plant for bees and butterflies.
If you're looking for a more compact option, creeping mazus (Mazus reptans) is a great choice. It blooms with vibrant blue-violet flowers against a backdrop of thick, deep green foliage.
Here are some key characteristics of these creeping groundcovers to consider:
These are just a few of the many options available for creeping groundcovers. By considering factors like soil type, sun exposure, and mature size, you can choose the perfect plant for your garden.
Perennials and Vines
Creeping Thyme is a low-maintenance perennial that can thrive in poor soil and requires minimal watering. It's perfect for areas with poor drainage.
English Ivy is a versatile vine that can be trained to climb up walls or trellises, and can also be pruned to maintain a desired shape.
Creeping Juniper is a slow-growing perennial that can tolerate drought and salt spray, making it ideal for coastal areas.
English Ivy can grow up to 8 feet long, making it a great option for covering large areas.
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