Bare soil is vulnerable. It erodes, it dries out, it invites weeds. The sun beating down and the wind wearing away the bare exposed soil will have your plants screaming for protection. Pine needles, hay, or mulch have some quick value. They are a simple fix, break down, and can feed the soil over time. There are also other alternatives as well, and that is what we are exploring here, purposeful ground covers. The kind that doesn’t just fill space, they add some life to it and transform the design.
Ground covers can be a long-lasting improvement. They create a living, self-sustaining ecosystem. Biodiversity is resilience. A variety of ground covers creates a stronger visual display, and can also lead to a healthier garden with pollinator activity. Aesthetics and function can coexist. We’re not talking about just any filler, mind you. We’re talking about plants that bring life and color to the landscape. Ground covers can be both beautiful and practical.
So, here are a few of our favorite groundcover plants.
Creeping Thyme:
Creeping Thyme is a classic and for good reason. This low-growing perennial forms a dense, fragrant mat, perfect for growing between stepping stones or covering open ground. Not only does it suppress weeds with its thick foliage, but it also releases a nice aroma when crushed or stepped on.
- Woolly Thyme: This variety, with its fuzzy, grey-green leaves, is a textural addition. It thrives in dry, sunny spots and adds life to any landscape design.
- Pink Chintz Thyme: For adding color, look try the Pink Chintz. In late spring and early summer, it bursts into a carpet of delicate pink blooms, attracting pollinators and creating colorful visual displays.
Creeping Phlox
When spring arrives, Creeping Phlox can transform the garden into a vibrant canvas of color. This hardy perennial forms a dense carpet of star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. It’s perfect for sunny slopes and rock gardens, where it can spread freely and create a breathtaking display.
Georgia Blue Veronica
For a touch of cool blue, Georgia Blue Veronica is a great ground cover. This low-growing boasts delicate, sky-blue flowers that bloom in spring, creating a stunning contrast against its deep green foliage. It’s a reliable performer, tolerating a range of soil conditions and attracting beneficial insects.
Candy Tuft
Candy Tuft is a delight to the senses, with its masses of pure white flowers that bloom in spring, resembling a blanket of snow. Its compact, mounding habit makes it ideal for edging borders or filling in gaps in the garden. And, as its name suggests, it has a delightful, sweet fragrance that will entice you to linger.
Mountain Mint
Now, Mountain Mint is a powerhouse, attracting a wide range of pollinators with its fragrant foliage and clusters of white flowers. It thrives in sunny to partly shaded areas and is remarkably drought-tolerant. Not only does it suppress weeds, but it also adds a touch of wildness to the garden, because it is such a haven for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Beyond the Bloom: Function and Form
Remember, purposeful ground covers aren’t just about aesthetics. They’re about creating a living, breathing ecosystem. They help to:
- Suppress weeds: By creating a dense layer of foliage, they outcompete unwanted plants.
- Prevent erosion: Their roots hold the soil in place, preventing it from washing away during heavy rains.
- Retain moisture: They shade the soil, reducing evaporation and keeping it cooler.
- Improve soil health: As they decompose, they add organic matter to the soil, enriching its fertility.
- Provide habitat for beneficial insects: They offer food and shelter for pollinators and other beneficial creatures.
So, as you embark on your gardening adventures, consider the power of purposeful ground covers. They’re more than just pretty faces; they’re the unsung heroes of the garden, working tirelessly to create a healthier, more vibrant landscape. Let us help you choose the correct ground cover for your needs! Hay, pine needles, or mulch are quick, effective materials to cover the bare ground if you are in a hurry, but it’s not the only thing.
Happy Gardening!