A ground cover is a type of plant that is planted in an area to cover the ground. Ground covers typically grow with little maintenance and fill bare or weedy areas. They can be evergreen or deciduous, and some species can have flowers, fruits, or other decorative qualities that make them attractive.
Ground covers are sometimes called lawn substitutes because they are often used for their ability to suppress weeds, but this is not always the case. They are plants that grow close to the ground or at the soil’s surface. They are often used in gardens, lawns, and other areas where the grass is not desired.
Ground cover plants can be annuals, perennials, bulbs, or shrubs. They usually have low water requirements and can be planted in areas with poor soil. They can also provide privacy by hiding unattractive features such as walls, buildings, and fences.
While ground covers have many uses, finding the right one for your situation, soil, and light type is important for healthy plants.
Let’s look at some ground covers that are fast-growing for sun or shade situations.
Creeping Thyme
In most areas, thyme plants are perennial. While some thyme species grow straight and shrub-like, creeping thyme grows low and vine-like. They are planted mainly for the delicate texture of their pointed blue-green leaves as they spread out to softly blanket the ground. However, some varieties bloom as well. Flowering species will develop flowers on mature plants in late spring and early summer.
Ice Plant
Are you looking for a drought-tolerant but beautiful flower to fill a troublesome dry spot in your garden? You may try growing ice plants. Ice plant blossoms give a vivid splash of color to your garden’s drier areas, and ice plant care is simple.
Although ice plants like full sun, they may take some mild shade in the garden. Ice plants do not tolerate wet soil because they are succulents, yet they perform well in poor soils. In reality, damp soil, particularly in the winter, is likely to damage the plants. This plant can become invasive in regions where the soil is persistently dry, so keep this in mind when planting it. But, if you are looking for a splash of color, Ice Plant ground covering might be just the thing.
Sweet Woodruff
Sweet woodruff plants are generally utilized in the landscape as edging for shaded regions or a flowering ground cover. These perennials will grow to make a low mat that will help choke out weeds when combined with landscape mulch. They are also one of the plants that survive under pine trees, while many others fail due to soil acidity. They will also thrive under a black walnut tree, despite the deadly toxin juglone that this tree emits.
The plant can suffer in hot and dry conditions, needing water to resurrect it. Withholding water, on the other hand, can help control its spread. It is often a good ground cover for dry shade, and even severe drought seldom kills it. Furthermore, sweet woodruff is rarely affected by pests or illnesses.
These are only some suggestions for ground cover in this area. Should you have more questions regarding what would be best for your situation, you can contact us at 972-517-5296. We would be happy to discuss your landscaping needs.
For more information about all of our services visit us at Fallaslandscape.com
