Introduction to the uses of Ground Cover
Ground cover isliterally plant covers for the ground. Generally ground covers are grown as fillers in areas that are otherwise not planted. They help prevent erosion and invasion of weeds; enhancing the beauty of the landscape through their dense foliage and flowers at the same time. Some have additional value as mulch and some like Clover possess nitrogen-fixing properties.

Description of Ground Cover
Plants used as ground covers do not grow to any height but spread along the ground rapidly to cover it with their dense foliage. Grass is the most popular ground cover but where grass is not feasible, other plants can also be used as cover. But these do not generally tolerate being walked upon.

The choice of a plant as ground cover depends on the terrain, zone, extent of area to be covered, maintenance requirements etc. Steep banks are often planted with ground covers as they are the best alternatives and prevent erosion. Gaps between sidewalks, steep slopes, shady areas beneath trees and shrubs and other bare sunny areas can be enhanced in beauty if covered with suitable foliage. Ground covers can interestingly divide turf area from flower beds or hedges.

Common Types of Ground Cover
There are many varieties of plants that can be used as ground covers. The selection of plants depends on the extent of area to be covered, the desired appearance and impact, as well as the topography. Some give a lush green appearance whereas others yield herbs and fruits. Certain others are enticing with a floral mattress in spring.
Grasses rank first among ground covers. A wide variety of ornamental grasses is available and they are best suited to prevent erosion on steep banks. Ornamental grasses generally require full sun. Their flowers and movement add beauty and grace to the landscape almost like a water body. Some native grasses if used as ground covers form permanent covers.
For hot dry areas, the Creeping Juniper is a suitable evergreen ground cover. It is an aggressive plant and covers large areas quickly. It grows to approx 12 inches to 24 inches and has blue green or green needle-shaped leaves.
Hosta or Plantain Lily also acts as a lush ground cover but needs a moist and shady terrain for growth.

The Phlox Subulata or Moss Pink can form an attractive ground cover on bare rocky ground. It has moss-like foliage and flowers abundantly in spring.
The Yucca (Yucca filamentosa) which grows to about 3 feet in height is better adapted to a hot dry terrain. Liriope or Lilyturf which is a grass-like ground cover adapts well to many soil conditions and is a useful ground cover in shady areas especially below trees.
The Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis) is another ground cover for a shaded landscape. The foliage changes tinge from purple in spring to bright green in summer and yellow green in winter or in bright sunlight.
Sedums have several cultivars ranging from a few inches to nearly 2 feet in height. They adapt well to different spaces and spread easily. They are also drought resistant.
Clover, Strawberry, Myrtle, Verbena, Periwinkle, Day lily, Cotoneaster, Blue fescue, Holly fern, Violets, Hall's Honeysuckle, St. Johnswort etc. can also be used as ground covers. Clover is an easy-to-maintain cover and needs no fertilizers. It is also a nitrogen fixer and stays green all through summer. Some ground covers are aggressive growers to the point of becoming invasive.

Growing Tips for Ground Cover
Ground covers need to be confined to defined spaces and if left without a barrier, tend to spread out. Plant selection depends on purpose and nature of terrain.

Planting & Maintenance For Ground Cover
Ground covers are best planted in early fall. In case you miss the season they may be planted in early spring. The plants need regular moisture until their roots are well established. Careful watch must be kept during the first year to eliminate weeds. Treating the soil with herbicides before planting, mulching or hand weeding can help control weeds.
Proper care must be taken in preparing the soil before plantation. The soil must be turned and fertilizers such as 5-10-15 (1/2 cup per sq. yard) as well as organic matter should be worked in before planting. Clayey soils may be tempered with sand to increase drainage.
If the ground cover is planted under trees, choose shallow-rooted plants such as Hosta, and do not turn the soil so deep as to disturb the root system of the trees.
The plants should be spaced in staggered rows to ensure speedy and even coverage. Spacing also depends on the growth pattern of the chosen cover. Plants that are aggressive spreaders can be spaced more widely than slow growers.
Watering should be regular until the plants are established. Thorough watering without water logging is the norm. After the first year, when the ground cover is established, they need little or no maintenance except an occasional fertilizer.

If you like ground cover....These pages might also interest you:

Allium Directory, Amaryllis Directory, Begonia Directory, Crocus Directory, Daffodils Directory, Dahlia Directory, Hyacinth Directory, Iris Directory, Lily Directory, Tulip Directory