Benefits of Ground Covers
Ground cover plants are low-growing, spreading plants that cover the soil and provide several benefits, including weed suppression, soil erosion control, and improved soil health. These plants form a dense mat that shades the soil, reducing weed growth and competition for water and nutrients.
Ground covers help stop soil erosion by stabilizing the soil with their root systems. It is imperative on slopes and in areas prone to heavy rainfall. Ground covers reduce the impact of raindrops and wind by covering the soil, preventing soil displacement and runoff.
In addition to their viable benefits, ground covers can improve the aesthetic attraction of your garden. They provide a lush, green carpet that complements other plants and adds visual interest to garden beds, borders, and pathways. Ground covers can also improve soil health by adding organic matter as they decompose, enhancing soil structure and fertility.
Top Ground Cover Choices
Choosing the right ground cover plants depends on your garden conditions and specific needs. Some popular ground cover plants include creeping thyme, sedum, ajuga, nepeta, liverleaf, basket-of-gold, wall-germander, bunchberry and vinca.
Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a low-growing, aromatic herb that produces small, purple flowers in the summer. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, making it ideal for rock gardens, pathways, and dry areas. Creeping thyme forms a dim mat that suppresses weeds and adds a fragrant touch to your garden.
Sedum, or stonecrop, is a succulent ground cover in various colours and forms. Sedum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens. It increases in well-drained soil and full sun, and its fleshy leaves add texture and interest to your garden.
Ajuga, also known as bugleweed, is a fast-spreading ground cover with attractive foliage and spikes of blue flowers in the spring. Ajuga is shade-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions. Its dense growth habit makes it efficient at defeating weeds and stabilizing soil.
Vinca, known as periwinkle, is a hardy ground cover with glossy green leaves and blue flowers. Vinca is shade-tolerant and can grow in poor soil conditions. It spreads quickly, forming a thick carpet that prevents weed growth and erosion. When planting ground covers, prepare the soil by removing weeds and adding organic matter.
Space the plants according to their growth habits and allow them to spread naturally. Water the plants frequently until they are established, and then reduce watering as needed. You can enjoy the benefits of a greenish, healthy garden by choosing the right ground cover plants and requiring proper care.
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Source: Ground Cover Plants
