Choosing the right groundcover or vine can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Groundcovers can be as low as 6 inches tall, like Creeping Thyme, or as high as 10 feet tall, like English Ivy.
They can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from full sun to partial shade. Some, like Sweet Woodruff, prefer the shade, while others, like Trumpet Vine, love full sun.
Groundcovers can also be evergreen, like Boxwood, or deciduous, like Pachysandra. This means they'll keep their leaves year-round or lose them in the fall, respectively.
In terms of maintenance, some groundcovers are very low-maintenance, like Vinca minor, which can tolerate foot traffic and requires minimal pruning.
You might enjoy: Shade Groundcovers
Types of Vines
Vines are a type of plant that can be woody, meaning their above ground parts remain year after year.
Evergreen vines can help screen a view, providing a natural barrier.
Some vines are perennial, dying to the ground in winter to return again in spring.
Related reading: Vinca Minor Vines
Flowering vines bring color and can attract butterflies or hummingbirds.
Woody vines can be used to cover a fence, shade a western wall, or adorn a tree trunk or porch post.
Cold tender tropical vines need to be protected from frost, while annual vines must be replanted or reseeded each year.
Suggestion: Sweet Peas Climbing Vines
Invasive Vines
Invasive vines can be a real nuisance in your garden, outcompeting native plants and causing damage to trees and structures. They can be difficult to eradicate once they've taken hold.
Some common invasive vines include the Virginia Creeper, which blooms from June to August, and the Poison Ivy, which blooms from May to July. These vines can spread quickly, choking out native vegetation and causing problems for homeowners and gardeners.
The Porcelain Berry vine, also known as Ampelopsis brevipedunculata, is another invasive species that blooms from July to August. It's a good idea to be aware of the specific blooming periods of invasive vines in your area, so you can take steps to control them.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Native Groundcovers
Here are some invasive vines to watch out for:
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other invasive vines in your area that are not included here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest growing creeping ground cover?
Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is a fast-growing creeping ground cover that can spread quickly, making it an ideal choice for covering large areas. It can grow up to 12 inches per year, forming a dense mat of golden-yellow flowers in the spring.
Can you use vines as ground cover?
Yes, some vines can be used as groundcovers, especially those with trailing or spreading habits. They can also be trained to grow up structures like trellises or arbors for a more controlled look.
Do creeping wire vines like sun or shade?
Creeping wire vines prefer full sun to partial shade, making them a great choice for sunny spots in your garden
What is the most low maintenance ground cover?
For a low-maintenance ground cover, consider Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum) or Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata), both of which require minimal watering and care.
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