Flowering Ground Covers: Beauty & Practicality

Flowering ground covers are a vibrant and practical choice for gardens of all sizes. These versatile plants, such as creeping thyme, offer a beautiful alternative to traditional lawns, particularly when considering factors like slope stabilization. Many flowering ground covers act as natural weed suppressants, creating a dense carpet that minimizes the need for herbicides. The inclusion of flowering ground covers enhances the aesthetic appeal of any landscape with the introduction of color and texture, contributing to a lively and inviting outdoor space.

Ever feel like your garden’s missing that certain je ne sais quoi? Like it needs a hug, but the hug has to be really, really low to the ground? Enter the wonderful world of flowering ground covers! We’re not just talking about any ground cover here, folks. We’re talking about the rockstars of the plant world – the ones that not only hug the earth but also burst into a riot of beautiful blossoms.

So, what exactly are flowering ground covers? Think of them as your garden’s living, breathing (and flowering!) carpet. Unlike their non-flowering cousins (though we love them too!), these guys put on a show with their colorful blooms. They’re the dual-threat athletes of the gardening world – providing both aesthetic charm and serious functional benefits. They’re not just pretty faces!

And speaking of benefits, get ready for a whole bouquet of them! We’re talking:

• Visual Appeal: Because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a splash of color?
• Erosion Control: They’re like tiny superheroes, holding the soil together with their mighty roots.
• Weed Suppression: They’re the bouncers of your garden, keeping those pesky weeds out of the VIP section.
• Reduced Lawn Maintenance: More time for iced tea, less time for mowing!
• Habitat Creation for Pollinators: Buzz, buzz, hooray! Attract those bee and butterfly friends.

But here’s the thing: choosing the right flowering ground cover is like choosing the right dance partner – you need to find the perfect fit. That’s why our thesis is this: Selecting the ideal flowering ground cover requires careful consideration of environmental factors, desired aesthetic, and intended function within the landscape.

So, buckle up, buttercup! We’re about to embark on a floral-filled adventure, exploring a dazzling array of ground covers, each with its own unique charm and superpowers! Get ready to meet your garden’s next best friend!

Spotlight on Spectacular Species: A Gardener’s Guide

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! We’re about to dive headfirst into the dazzling world of flowering ground covers. Forget the boring old lawn – we’re talking carpets of color, textures that tickle your toes (okay, maybe not literally), and scents that will make your neighbors green with envy! This isn’t just about plants; it’s about painting your landscape with living art. So, grab your gardening gloves and let’s meet some superstars!

Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum): The Aromatic Carpet

Imagine stepping out onto your patio and being greeted by the gentle fragrance of thyme. That’s the magic of creeping thyme! This little powerhouse is more than just a pretty face. Its foliage is finely textured, creating a dense mat that’s perfect for tucking between paving stones. The flower colors range from delicate pinks to vibrant purples, adding a splash of color that lasts for weeks.

Growing Conditions: This sun-worshiper thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s also incredibly drought-tolerant, making it a winner for those of us who are, shall we say, forgetful waterers.

Garden Uses: Think rock gardens, pathways, and anywhere you want a touch of aromatic charm. Plus, walking on it releases even more of that delicious scent!

Sedum (Various species): Succulent Stars of the Ground

Sedums are the rock stars of the succulent world! With a mind-boggling array of species, you’re sure to find one (or ten!) that steals your heart. From the fiery hues of Sedum ‘Angelina’ to the robust charm of Sedum spurium, these guys are low-maintenance champions.

Care: Low maintenance is the name of the game! Excellent drainage is key, and they absolutely love the sun. These plants pretty much thrive on neglect (don’t tell them I said that!).

Landscaping: Green roofs? Check. Borders? Check. Drought-tolerant gardens that make your neighbors weep with envy? Double-check! Sedums are incredibly versatile and add a touch of modern cool to any landscape.

Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata): A Springtime Cascade

Picture this: a waterfall of vibrant pink, purple, and white cascading down a rock wall. That’s the breathtaking beauty of creeping phlox! Its needle-like foliage forms a dense mat that explodes with color in the spring.

Growing Tips: Give it full sun and well-drained soil, and it will reward you with a spectacular display. Shear it back after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage even more blooms next year.

Applications: Perfect for rock gardens, slopes, and cascading over walls. It’s like a floral firework display that lasts for weeks!

Lilyturf (Liriope spicata): The Grassy Accent

Okay, let’s be clear: Lilyturf looks like grass, but it’s actually a perennial! It brings a touch of understated elegance with its grass-like foliage and purple or white flower spikes that appear in late summer.

Requirements: This adaptable plant can handle various soil types and thrives in partial shade to full sun. It’s a true survivor!

Uses: Borders, edging, mass plantings, and erosion control. It’s the workhorse of the ground cover world, adding structure and texture to any landscape.

Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum): The Shady Charmer

If you’ve got a shady spot in your garden that’s begging for some love, look no further than sweet woodruff! Its delicate, star-shaped leaves and fragrant white flowers create a woodland wonderland.

Conditions: Shade to partial shade is its happy place, along with moist, well-drained soil.

Uses: Woodland gardens, under trees, and along shady pathways. It’s like a secret garden whispered in the shadows.

Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum): The Silver Lining

Want to add a touch of ethereal beauty to your garden? Snow-in-Summer is your answer! Its silvery-gray foliage is stunning on its own, but when it bursts into a profusion of white flowers in early summer, it’s truly magical.

Care: Full sun and well-drained soil are a must. Trim it back after flowering to prevent self-seeding (unless you want a lot of Snow-in-Summer!).

Applications: Rock gardens, dry slopes, and cascading over walls. It’s like a dusting of fairy dust that transforms any space.

Ice Plant (Delosperma cooperi): A Dazzling Display

Prepare to be amazed by the vibrant, daisy-like flowers of the Ice Plant! This succulent ground cover comes in a rainbow of colors, from shocking pink to electric purple to sunshine orange.

Tips: Full sun and extremely well-drained soil are essential. This plant is a true drought-tolerant champion, perfect for those hot, sunny spots where other plants wilt and weep.

Uses: Hot, sunny locations, rock gardens, and containers. It’s like a party in a pot!

Periwinkle (Vinca minor/major): Evergreen Elegance

For year-round greenery and delicate spring blooms, Periwinkle is a classic choice. Its glossy, evergreen foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for the blue or white flowers that emerge in spring.

Requirements: Adaptable to various soil types and thrives in shade to partial shade.

Uses: Ground cover under trees, slopes, and erosion control. However, be mindful of where you plant this one. It can be invasive in some areas, so be sure to research local regulations before planting.

Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans): A Colorful Carpet

Bugleweed is all about texture and color! Its rosettes of foliage come in a range of hues, from green to purple to variegated, and its spikes of blue or purple flowers add a touch of vertical interest.

Conditions: Partial shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

Applications: Ground cover in shady areas, woodland gardens, and between stepping stones. It’s like a living tapestry that adds depth and dimension to your landscape.

Golden Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’): A Touch of Gold

Want to brighten up a shady spot? Golden Creeping Jenny is your golden ticket! Its round, golden-yellow leaves add a touch of sunshine to even the darkest corners of your garden.

Care: Moist soil and partial shade to full sun (although the color is best in partial shade).

Uses: Ground cover in moist areas, containers, and cascading over walls. It’s like liquid gold spilling over your landscape.

Trailing Lantana (Lantana montevidensis): The Butterfly Magnet

If you want to attract butterflies to your garden, Trailing Lantana is a must-have! Its spreading habit and clusters of small, colorful flowers (in shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white) are irresistible to these fluttering beauties.

Tips: Full sun, well-drained soil, and drought-tolerance make this plant a winner for warm climates.

Applications: Hanging baskets, containers, cascading over walls, and ground cover in warm climates. It’s like a butterfly buffet in your backyard!

Mazus reptans: Orchid Groundcover

Don’t let the name fool you; this isn’t a high-maintenance orchid! Mazus reptans is a charming ground cover with small, green leaves and orchid-like flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white.

Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.

Uses: Ground cover in moist areas, between stepping stones, and rock gardens. It’s like a miniature orchid meadow under your feet.

Dwarf Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides): A Late-Season Surprise

Just when you think the gardening season is winding down, Dwarf Plumbago bursts into bloom! Its green foliage turns bronze-red in the fall, and its clusters of blue flowers add a welcome splash of color in late summer and fall.

Conditions: Full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Applications: Borders, ground cover in sunny areas, and for adding fall interest to your garden. It’s like a final encore to the gardening season!

Beach Strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis): Coastal Charm

If you live near the coast, Beach Strawberry is the perfect ground cover to bring a touch of coastal charm to your garden. Its glossy, evergreen foliage and white flowers are reminiscent of sandy dunes.

Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, and drought-tolerance make this plant a low-maintenance winner.

Uses: Coastal gardens, ground cover, and erosion control. And yes, it produces edible red fruit, but be warned: it’s not particularly flavorful! Think of it more as a decorative bonus.

Diving Deep: Plant Families for Budding Botanists (and Regular Gardeners!)

Okay, so you’ve been introduced to some stellar ground cover options, right? Creeping thyme tickling your toes, sedum dazzling in the sun… But ever wondered what connects these leafy characters? That’s where plant families swoop in to save the day! Think of it like a family reunion, only with more chlorophyll and less awkward small talk. Understanding these family ties isn’t just geeky botany; it actually gives you sneaky insights into plant care!

Lamiaceae (Mint Family): Not Just for Mojitos!

Ever crushed a mint leaf and been bam! hit with that amazing aroma? That’s Lamiaceae for ya! This family, also known as the mint family, is packed with powerhouses like creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum). Keep an eye out for square stems and leaves that grow directly opposite each other on the stem. These plants are often aromatic and generally quite well-behaved. They can be vigorous, so keep an eye on them. Knowing that your ground cover is from the mint family means it will love lots of sunlight, well-drained soil, and a good trim now and then. This will help to keep the soil looking great and provide good looking foliage.

Crassulaceae (Stonecrop Family): The Cool Kids of Succulents!

Welcome to the Crassulaceae family, a group of succulents that store water in their fleshy leaves. These guys, like our friend Sedum, are the camels of the plant world – supremely drought-tolerant. This is excellent information and a great place to start if you are trying to plan out your garden or lawn. If you forget to water it for a week or two? No sweat (or wilt!). They’re low-maintenance, sun-worshipping stars. Recognizing this family trait helps you avoid the biggest succulent sin: overwatering.

Polemoniaceae (Phlox Family): Flower Power Central!

Prepare for a burst of color! Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata) and its family is the Polemoniaceae. Known for their exceptionally showy and often wonderfully fragrant blooms. These blooms are show stopping! They want sun, like to spread, and are fairly easy to take care of!

Asparagaceae (Asparagus Family): More Than Just Dinner!

Don’t let the name fool you; this family is more than just asparagus! Lilyturf (Liriope spicata) falls under this category. These plants feature grass-like foliage and hardy characteristics. Understanding this can help you position these plants as edging or borders or in mass plantings.

Rubiaceae (Madder Family): The Unassuming Achievers!

These plants are often known for having leaves that are opposite, and sometimes have stipules (small leaf-like appendages at the base of the leaf stalk). Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum) falls under this group and can be a charming, if unassuming groundcover! The Madder family is a great group of plants and trees to explore.

Decoding the Details: Key Attributes for Informed Choices

Alright, garden enthusiasts! Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Choosing the right flowering ground cover is like picking the perfect paint color for your living room – it can make or break the whole vibe. We want a garden that thrives and looks fabulous, right? So, put on your thinking caps, because we’re about to decode the essential attributes you need to consider before you even think about digging that first hole.

Flower Color: Setting the Mood with Hues

Flower color is more than just a pretty face. Think about the overall mood you want to create. Are you aiming for a calming oasis with soothing blues and purples, or a vibrant explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows? Do you want your flowers to complement the existing colors in your garden or provide a striking contrast? Planning for seasonal color schemes will ensure that your garden is always in bloom, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape throughout the year.

Bloom Time/Season: Extending the Show

Why settle for a garden that only looks good for a few weeks? By carefully selecting ground covers with different bloom times, you can create a garden that puts on a show from spring to fall! Consider layering bloom times so that as one ground cover fades, another steps into the spotlight, providing continuous color and interest throughout the growing season. Extending your bloom season doesn’t just look nice; it’s also a major boon for our pollinator pals.

Sunlight Requirements: Know Your Light

This one’s crucial, folks. Trying to grow a sun-loving plant in a shady spot is like trying to teach a cat to fetch – it’s just not going to work! Matching your plants to the available light levels is essential for their health and survival. So, before you fall in love with a particular ground cover, take a good look at your garden and figure out how much sun each area gets. Full sun, partial shade, or full shade – know your light!

Soil Type: Digging Deeper

“Soil is not just dirt—it is the foundation of your garden’s health.” Understanding your soil’s pH, drainage, and nutrient content is key to selecting ground covers that will thrive. Is your soil acidic or alkaline? Does it drain well, or does it stay soggy after it rains? Amending your soil with compost or other organic matter can improve its texture and fertility, creating a more hospitable environment for your plants.

Water Needs: Quench Their Thirst (But Not Too Much!)

Some ground covers are drought-tolerant superstars, while others need regular watering to stay happy. Think about your climate and how much time you’re willing to spend watering. Choosing drought-tolerant options can save you time, water, and money! If you live in a dry climate, consider installing a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots of your plants.

Hardiness Zones: Winter is Coming

Don’t forget about winter! Selecting plants that are hardy in your area is essential for their long-term survival. Check the plant’s hardiness zone before you buy it to make sure it can withstand your local winter temperatures. A plant that is not hardy in your zone may survive for a season or two, but it will eventually succumb to the cold.

Erosion Control: Holding the Line

Got a slope that’s constantly eroding? Ground covers to the rescue! Choosing ground covers with strong root systems can help to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. Look for plants that spread quickly and form a dense mat of roots. These plants will act as a living mulch, holding the soil in place and preventing it from washing away during heavy rains.

Weed Suppression: Winning the War on Weeds

Nobody likes weeds, and a dense carpet of ground cover can be a powerful weapon in the fight against them. Dense ground covers help block sunlight from reaching weed seeds, preventing them from germinating. Some ground covers also release chemicals that inhibit weed growth, giving them an extra edge in the battle.

Lawn Replacement: Say Goodbye to Mowing!

Tired of mowing, edging, and fertilizing your lawn? Consider converting your lawn to a low-maintenance ground cover bed! This can save you time, money, and effort, while also creating a more beautiful and environmentally friendly landscape. Choose ground covers that are appropriate for your climate and soil type, and get ready to say goodbye to your lawn mower!

Pollinator Gardens: Buzzworthy Blooms

Want to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden? Choose ground covers that are known to be pollinator magnets! These plants provide a valuable source of nectar and pollen for pollinators, helping to support their populations. Look for plants with brightly colored flowers and a long bloom time to attract the most pollinators.

Ground Cover Under Trees: Shade-Loving Solutions

Finding plants that will grow under trees can be a challenge, but there are many shade-tolerant ground covers that can thrive in these conditions. Look for plants that can tolerate root competition and low light levels. These plants will help to prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and create a more attractive landscape under your trees.

Designing with Delight: Creative Landscape Applications

Okay, let’s get our creative juices flowing and talk about how to make these ground covers really sing in your garden! It’s not just about plopping them down; it’s about orchestrating a visual symphony! Think of yourself as a garden maestro, and these ground covers are your instrumentalists.

Color Combinations: Painting with Plants

Let’s talk color, baby! Are you a fan of the soothing vibes of a monochromatic scheme, where different shades of the same color create a calming and unified look? Imagine a carpet of various purple ground covers like Ajuga and creeping thyme, all playing in harmony. Or maybe you’re drawn to the analogous color schemes – colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel, like blues, purples, and pinks. Think of a bed of blue periwinkle, complemented by purple bugleweed, and kissed with pink creeping phlox.

But if you’re feeling bold, let’s crank up the volume with contrasting colors! These are colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, like yellow and purple, or red and green. Imagine the zing of golden creeping Jenny weaving around the deep purple foliage of a heuchera. It’s a visual party, folks! Remember to consider the color of your house, hardscape, and existing plants to tie everything together. Don’t be afraid to experiment, but keep the overall picture in mind.

Seasonal Interest: Keeping the Show Going Year-Round

A garden shouldn’t be a one-hit-wonder, right? You want a performance that lasts all season long! To do this, we need to think about bloom times and foliage textures. Consider which ground covers will take center stage at different times of the year. Creeping phlox puts on a stunning spring show, while lilyturf offers its grassy elegance and late-summer blooms. And dwarf plumbago will deliver those dazzling blue flowers in late summer and fall. By layering in plants with staggered bloom times, you can ensure that your garden always has something to offer.

Don’t forget about the foliage! Evergreen ground covers like periwinkle and beach strawberry provide year-round structure and color, while others like dwarf plumbago offer stunning fall foliage. Think of it as setting the stage for the blooms to come, and also providing beauty even when the flowers are gone.

Texture and Form: Adding Depth and Dimension

Texture and form are like the bass and drums of the garden – they provide depth and rhythm. Juxtapose the fine texture of creeping thyme with the bolder leaves of hostas or the grassy foliage of lilyturf. The contrast will create visual interest and prevent your garden from looking flat.

Ground covers are also great for softening hardscapes. Let creeping thyme or sedum spill over the edges of paving stones, creating a more natural and inviting feel. Or use them to cascade over walls, softening the harsh lines and adding a touch of romance.

Creating Pathways and Borders: Guiding the Eye

Ground covers are fantastic for defining spaces and guiding the eye through the garden. Use them to create pathways by planting them between stepping stones. The fragrant foliage of creeping thyme will release its scent as you walk, adding an extra sensory experience.

They are also perfect for creating borders and edging flower beds. A low-growing ground cover like snow-in-summer can create a neat and tidy edge, while also adding a touch of silver shimmer. Golden creeping Jenny can brighten up a shady border with its cheerful yellow foliage.

Rock Gardens and Slopes: Taming the Terrain

Rock gardens and slopes can be challenging to plant, but ground covers are up to the task! Choose drought-tolerant species that can handle the harsh conditions. Sedums and ice plant are excellent choices for rock gardens, as they thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.

On slopes, choose ground covers with strong root systems to help prevent erosion. Creeping phlox, bugleweed, and periwinkle are all good options. Plant them closely together to create a dense mat that will hold the soil in place. So go ahead, grab your trowel and start painting your landscape with these versatile beauties!

Maintenance Matters: Ensuring Long-Term Beauty

Okay, so you’ve got your flowering ground cover planted, looking all lush and lovely. But guess what? The work doesn’t stop there! Maintaining these little botanical superstars is key to keeping them thriving and preventing future headaches. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t just adopt a puppy and expect it to train itself, would you? (Okay, maybe some puppies are naturally well-behaved…but you get the idea!). Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of keeping your ground cover gorgeous for the long haul.

Watering: The Goldilocks Approach

Figuring out how much and how often to water is the gardening equivalent of finding the perfect porridge – not too much, not too little, but just right. Generally, newly planted ground covers need more frequent watering to help them establish strong roots. But once they’re settled in, you’ll need to adjust based on the specific plant and your local climate.

• The Finger Test: Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
• Drought-Tolerant Delights: Plants like Sedum and Ice Plant are total desert dwellers and prefer drier conditions. Overwatering is a big no-no for these guys!
• Moisture Lovers: Sweet Woodruff and Golden Creeping Jenny, on the other hand, like consistently moist (but not soggy!) soil.

Fertilizing: A Nutritional Boost

Think of fertilizer as a vitamin boost for your plants. But just like with vitamins, more isn’t always better! Over-fertilizing can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. A slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring is generally a good bet. For specific needs, always check what your ground cover variety prefers.

Pruning: Snip, Snip Hooray!

Pruning might sound scary, but it’s just a fancy term for giving your plants a little haircut. Regular trimming helps maintain their shape, promotes more abundant blooms, and prevents them from becoming unruly.

• Deadheading: Removing faded flowers encourages the plant to produce more blooms. It’s like telling it, “Hey, those were pretty, but let’s see what else you’ve got!”
• Controlling the Spread: Some ground covers, like Periwinkle, can be a bit enthusiastic about spreading. Pruning helps keep them within bounds.

Pest and Disease Control: Playing Detective

Keep an eye out for any signs of trouble, like discolored leaves, holes, or unusual spots. Identifying problems early makes them much easier to tackle.

• Natural Solutions: Try using natural pest control methods, like introducing beneficial insects (ladybugs are great aphid eaters!) or using insecticidal soap.
• Good Air Circulation: Proper spacing between plants helps prevent fungal diseases by allowing air to circulate freely.

Mulching: The Gardener’s Best Friend

Mulch is like a magic blanket for your garden. It helps suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches, like shredded bark or compost, also break down over time and enrich the soil.

Division: Sharing the Love (and the Plants!)

Some ground covers, like Bugleweed and Lilyturf, can become overcrowded over time. Dividing them every few years rejuvenates the plants and gives you new plants to spread around your garden (or share with friends!). Think of it as a botanical cloning operation!

Troubleshooting Tips: Don’t Let Ground Cover Growths Ground You!

So, you’ve painstakingly planted your flowering ground cover, envisioned a breathtaking carpet of color, and then…BAM! Reality hits. Patches are looking sad, weird spots are appearing, or something is devouring your precious plants. Don’t despair, fellow gardener! Every garden faces challenges, and ground covers are no exception. Let’s troubleshoot some common problems.

Poor Growth: The “Why Isn’t It Thriving?” Mystery

Is your ground cover looking a bit meh? Like it’s existing, but not exactly thriving? There are a few suspects:

• Drainage Drama: Ground covers usually hate soggy feet. Is the soil holding too much water? Amend with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage. Raised beds can also be your best friend here.
• Sun’s Out, or Is It? Did you put a sun-loving plant in a shady spot (or vice versa)? Check your plant tags (or this blog post!) to make sure they’re getting the right amount of light. Move them if needed – most ground covers are pretty forgiving about being transplanted when small.
• Nutrient Nirvana: Sometimes, plants are just hungry. A balanced fertilizer can give them a boost. Don’t overdo it, though, or you might get lots of leaves and few flowers. Soil tests are the best way to know for sure.

Disease Problems: The “Uh Oh, What’s That Spot?” Saga

Spots, wilting, or powdery mildew? Diseases can be a bummer.

• Fungal Foes: Many common diseases are fungal. Good air circulation is key. Prune away any crowded or dead foliage. Fungicides can help in severe cases, but try organic options first!
• Prevention is Paramount: Watering at the base of the plants (instead of overhead) and avoiding overcrowding can prevent a lot of problems. Healthy plants are more resistant to disease, so give them the right conditions.

Pest Infestations: The “Something’s Eating My Plants!” Horror Story

Aphids, slugs, snails… the tiny terrors that love to munch on your garden.

• Aphid Armies: These little sap-suckers can weaken plants. Blast them off with a strong stream of water. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs. Insecticidal soap works well, too.
• Slug and Snail Shenanigans: These slimy critters can devour foliage overnight. Hand-picking (at night), beer traps, or diatomaceous earth can help control them. Copper tape around beds also deters them.
• Identify Your Enemy: Before you go nuclear with pesticides, figure out exactly what’s eating your plants. Beneficial insects can often take care of the problem for you.

Invasive Spread: The “Oops, It’s Taking Over!” Moment

Some ground covers are just too enthusiastic. They spread like wildfire and can become a nuisance.

• Containment Strategies: Plant aggressive spreaders in contained areas, like raised beds or surrounded by edging.
• Regular Pruning: Keep them in check by pruning back runners.
• Root Barriers: Install physical barriers in the ground to prevent roots from spreading beyond their designated area.
• Know Before You Grow: Before you plant, research how aggressive a particular ground cover is in your area. Some states even have lists of invasive plants.

Gardening isn’t always easy but remember it is always a learning curve! You’ve got the knowledge to tackle those pesky problems and get your ground cover growing gorgeously!

So, there you have it! Flowering ground covers are a fantastic way to add some pizzazz to your yard while keeping things low-maintenance. Get out there, do a little digging (literally!), and watch your garden transform into a vibrant, blooming paradise. Happy gardening!