Tired of maintaining a grass lawn? Consider replacing it with ground cover plants. Ground covers offer a variety of textures, colors, and benefits that grass simply can’t match. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they also provide excellent erosion control and can thrive in areas where grass struggles. Here are eight fantastic ground cover plants that you should consider growing instead of grass.
Japanese Forest Grass
Characteristics
Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra) is known for its strappy foliage that comes in shades of bright green, chartreuse, or gold. It adds a pop of color to shady areas and creates a lush, tropical look in the garden. This perennial grass is a slow grower but forms a dense, flowing mound over time.
Planting and Care Tips
Japanese Forest Grass thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial to full shade. It is best suited for USDA Zones 5 to 9. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Mulching can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Trim back any dead foliage in early spring to encourage new growth.
Heuchera
Features
Heuchera, also known as Coral Bells, is prized for its colorful foliage that ranges from lime green to deep burgundy. This perennial adapts well to varying light conditions and can add vibrant color to both sunny and shaded areas. Heuchera also produces delicate flowers on tall stems, which attract pollinators like hummingbirds and bees.
Growing Conditions
Heuchera thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate part sun to full shade. It is hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 9. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Divide the plants every few years to maintain their vigor.
Sedge
Attributes
Sedge (Carex) is a versatile perennial that features grass-like foliage in various colors, including green, yellow, and variegated forms. It is an excellent low-maintenance ground cover that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Sedge adds texture and movement to the garden, and its dense growth habit helps suppress weeds.
Care Guidelines
Sedge prefers moist, well-drained soil and can thrive in part sun to full shade. It is suitable for USDA Zones 5 to 9. Regular watering is important, especially during the establishment period. Once established, Sedge is relatively drought-tolerant. Prune back any dead or damaged foliage in early spring to keep the plants looking tidy.
Japanese Painted Fern
Unique Qualities
The Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum) stands out with its striking silver and maroon fronds that shimmer in shaded areas. This fern adds a touch of elegance and a unique color palette to the garden. It is an ideal ground cover for shady spots where other plants might struggle to thrive.
Maintenance Instructions
Japanese Painted Ferns prefer rich, moist, well-drained soil and full shade. They are hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 8. Regular watering is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Trim back any dead fronds in early spring to make way for new growth.
Pachysandra
Distinctive Traits
Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) is a low-growing perennial that forms a dense carpet of glossy, dark green leaves. It produces small, white flowers in the spring, adding a subtle touch of beauty to shaded areas. Pachysandra is deer-resistant and spreads effectively, making it an excellent choice for ground cover under trees.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Pachysandra thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and prefers partial to full shade. It is suitable for USDA Zones 4 to 9. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry periods, to keep the soil moist. Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Trim back any leggy or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new growth.
Lady’s Mantle
Beauty and Benefits
Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla mollis) is known for its scalloped, velvety leaves that sparkle with dewdrops in the morning. It produces clusters of delicate, yellow-green flowers in early summer. This perennial is not only beautiful but also provides excellent ground cover, helping to prevent soil erosion.
Planting Tips
Lady’s Mantle prefers well-drained soil and can thrive in part to full sun. It is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 7. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells. Apply mulch to retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage further blooming and trim back any damaged foliage in early spring.
Lilyturf
Advantages
Lilyturf (Liriope muscari) is a tough evergreen perennial that features grass-like leaves and clusters of purple flower spikes. It is drought-resistant once established and can tolerate a variety of soil types. Lilyturf is an excellent choice for ground cover in areas where grass struggles to grow.
Care Requirements
Lilyturf prefers well-drained soil and can thrive in full sun to partial shade. It is suitable for USDA Zones 5 to 10. Regular watering is essential during the establishment period, but once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant. Trim back any dead foliage in early spring to encourage new growth. Divide the plants every few years to maintain their vigor.
Hens and Chicks
Characteristics
Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) are succulent ground covers characterized by their rosette-shaped, fleshy leaves. They come in various colors, from green to deep red, and produce small, star-shaped flowers. These plants are drought-tolerant and ideal for rock gardens or sunny spots where other plants might struggle.
Growing and Maintenance Tips
Hens and Chicks prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They are hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 8. Minimal watering is required, as they are drought-tolerant. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot. Remove any dead rosettes to keep the plants looking tidy and divide them every few years to encourage healthy growth.
Conclusion
Ground cover plants are a fantastic alternative to traditional grass lawns. They offer a variety of textures, colors, and benefits that can enhance the beauty and functionality of your garden. Whether you prefer the tropical look of Japanese Forest Grass or the drought-tolerant nature of Hens and Chicks, there’s a ground cover plant to suit every garden style and need. By choosing the right ground cover plants, you can reduce maintenance, conserve water, and create a stunning landscape that stands out from the rest.
