How-To Guide: Ground Cover

Introduction

Ground covers are the unsung heroes of garden design, providing a myriad of benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics. These resilient plants prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and require minimal maintenance, making them indispensable for any landscape. With their ability to add both beauty and functionality, ground covers transform ordinary spaces into lush, vibrant havens. At Plants Express, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of ground cover plants, each carefully chosen to thrive in a variety of climates and soil types.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about planting ground covers, from understanding soil and climate requirements to step-by-step planting instructions and maintenance tips. Whether you're looking to enhance your garden's visual appeal or solve specific landscaping challenges, our guide ensures you'll find the perfect ground cover to meet your needs.

What You Need to Know Before Planting

Climate and Soil Requirements

Before diving into planting ground covers, it’s essential to understand their specific growing conditions. Each ground cover has unique needs in terms of soil type, sunlight, and climate. Here’s what you need to know:

• Soil Type: Most ground covers prefer well-drained soil. For example, Dymondia margaretae (Silver Carpet Dymondia) thrives in sandy soils, while Cotoneaster dammeri (Lowfast Bearberry Cotoneaster) can handle clay soils.

• Sunlight: Sun exposure is critical. Lantana montevidensis (Purple Trailing Lantana) flourishes in full sun, whereas Ophiopogon japonicus (Dwarf Mondo Grass) thrives in shaded areas.

• Climate: The plant's climate adaptability is crucial. Arctostaphylos 'Emerald Carpet' (Emerald Carpet Manzanita) suits coastal environments, while Senecio serpens (Dwarf Blue Chalksticks) is perfect for arid regions.

Planning Your Space

Proper planning is the cornerstone of successful ground cover planting. Here’s how to get started:

• Measuring and Preparing: Accurately measure your planting area to determine the number of plants needed. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and loosening the top layer to ensure optimal root growth.
  
• Foot Traffic Considerations: Not all ground covers can withstand foot traffic. Select plants based on how much wear and tear they will endure. For instance, Carex praegracilis (California Field Sedge) is durable and can handle some foot traffic, making it suitable for pathways or areas where occasional walking is expected. Conversely, Rosa 'Flower Carpet Red' (Red Flower Carpet Groundcover Rose) should be planted in low-traffic areas where they can grow undisturbed and showcase their beautiful blooms without being trampled.

Incorporating ground covers that tolerate foot traffic into high-use areas can create a cohesive and practical garden design. Look for tough, low-growing species that can recover quickly from being stepped on, ensuring both beauty and functionality in your landscape.

Choosing the Right Ground Covers

Selecting the right ground covers involves considering your specific conditions such as climate, soil type, and sun exposure. Here are some top picks available at Plants Express:

• Low Boy Prostrate Acacia:
  • Ideal for preventing erosion on banks and slopes.
  • Forms a dense mat with its sprawling growth habit.
• Emerald Carpet Manzanita:
  • Excellent for dry areas with poor soil.
  • Provides a lush, evergreen cover.
• California Field Sedge:
  • Can adapt to various soil conditions, including wet areas.
  • Creates a dense, grassy mat.
• Lowfast Bearberry Cotoneaster:
  • Effective for erosion control and covering large areas.
  • Produces attractive red berries and glossy leaves.
• Silver Carpet Dymondia:
  • Perfect for sunny, well-drained areas.
  • Forms a low, dense mat that can tolerate some foot traffic.
• Purple Trailing Lantana:
  • Provides vibrant purple flowers and lush foliage.
  • Ideal for hot, sunny locations and can cover large areas quickly.
• Dwarf Mondo Grass:
  • Thrives in shaded areas.
  • Forms a dense, dark green ground cover.
• Red Flower Carpet Groundcover Rose:
  • Produces abundant red flowers.
  • Ideal for sunny spots and can tolerate some foot traffic.
• Trailing Rosemary:
  • Great for sunny, well-drained areas.
  • Provides fragrant foliage and attractive flowers.
• Blue Spruce Sedum:
  • Tolerates dry, poor soils.
  • Forms a low-growing, blue-green mat.
• Dwarf Blue Chalksticks:
  • Ideal for dry, sunny locations.
  • Forms a low, succulent cover with blue-green leaves.

Understanding Ground Cover Flats

When planning your space, consider the size of the flats and the number of plants they contain to ensure you purchase the appropriate amount for your project. Ground cover plants are typically sold in flats, which are trays designed to hold multiple small plants. Each flat measures approximately 18 inches by 12 inches and contains around 36 to 48 tiny plants, depending on the species. These plants are grown in small cells or plugs, making them easy to transplant and allowing them to quickly establish themselves in your garden. 

Tools Needed

To get started, you’ll need:

• Shovel or spade
• Garden rake
• Soil amendments (if necessary)
• Mulch
• Watering can or hose

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Ground Covers

Site Preparation

1. Soil Testing: Test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Amend as necessary to create an optimal growing environment.
2. Layout Planning: Plan your layout with proper spacing and design patterns in mind. Ensure the site has good drainage.

Planting Process

1. Timing: Plant ground covers in early spring or fall for the best results.
2. Spacing: Space the plants according to their mature size, generally about 6 inches apart for Dymondia margaretae.
3. Depth: Dig holes twice the width of the plant’s root ball and slightly shallower than its height.
4. Planting: Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and gently tamp down.

Immediate Aftercare

1. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist for the first few weeks.
2. Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to support initial growth.

Maintenance Care

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your ground cover plants thrive and maintain their aesthetic appeal. Maintenance requirements can vary significantly depending on the specific ground cover plant. Some may need more frequent watering or pruning, while others might be more self-sufficient. Always research and follow the care guidelines specific to each type of ground cover in your garden to ensure optimal health and growth.

Here are some essential care tips:

Regular Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent watering, especially during dry spells. While many ground covers, such as Dymondia margaretae, are drought-tolerant once established, they still require regular watering to help them establish a strong root system. During the first growing season, ensure the soil remains evenly moist.
• Weeding: Keep the area free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients. Regularly inspect your ground cover beds and promptly remove any weeds that emerge. This will help your ground covers grow more vigorously and maintain a neat appearance.
• Seasonal Care: Prune dead or overgrown parts to encourage healthy growth. For example, trimming back Dymondia margaretae in late winter can help rejuvenate the plant and promote denser, more attractive growth in the spring. Seasonal pruning helps maintain the desired shape and spread of your ground covers, preventing them from becoming too leggy or sparse.

By following these maintenance practices, you can ensure your ground covers remain healthy, attractive, and effective in their role within your garden.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests like aphids and diseases such as powdery mildew. Treat as needed.
2. Invasive Growth: Trim back aggressive growth to keep plants manageable.
3. Patches Dying Off: Check soil moisture and quality. Amend and replant if necessary.

Conclusion

Ground covers are a fantastic addition to any garden, offering both beauty and practical benefits. By following this expert guide, you can successfully plant and maintain ground covers that will thrive and enhance your landscape. Explore the wide selection of ground cover plants at Plants Express and start transforming your garden today.