How to Select Groundcover for a Yard
Groundcover is a very practical way to hide a trouble area in your yard. From reducing erosion to creating a natural mulch, reducing weeds, maintaining an even temperature around plant roots and retaining the moisture in the soil, the Groundcover is a hard-working plant. However, the plants don’t have to just be utilitarian. They can also create a stunning visual effect. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Soil testing kit
- Flower books or catalogs
- Computer with internet access
- Tape measure
- Paper and pencil
Instructions
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Determine where and why you need groundcover. Do you have a steep sloping area that is difficult to mow? Do you have a huge flower garden that is overtaken with weeds? What plants or trees will be growing near the groundcover? Do you plant foliage or would you like a flowering groundcover? How quickly do you need the groundcover to spread? Do you want an evergreen groundcover? The answers to these questions will determine which groundcover you select.
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Test the soil, if you don’t already have an idea of what it is. For instance, an area under pine trees tends to be acidic. Test the soil you wish to treat in order to determine which groundcover is right for the you.
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Monitor the sunlight; especially if the groundcover area is in partial shade. Does it receive morning or afternoon sun? Some groundcover can tolerate a light morning sun, while others thrive best under the harsh glare of a mid-day sun. The opposite may also be true. For example, the vinca minor grows best in a shaded area.
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Identify any plants or trees that are growing in the area. While some groundcover is short in height other groundcover, like the alyssum, for example, can grow tall enough to hide flowers around it. Measure the area that needs groundcover. This will determine the number of plants you will need to purchase. Keep in mind that some groundcovers spread more quickly than others. And some can take up to several seasons to establish.
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Review flower catalogs, books and websites. Make a list of the groundcover you wish to purchase.
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Talk to your local nursery, or the local Agricultural Extension Office or Agricultural Department of a local university. Ask questions about the groundcover you are considering for your yard. Ask which groundcovers thrive best in your area. Groundcover is supposed to make the gardener’s life easier. No matter how pretty it is, choosing a groundcover that requires constant attention defeats its purpose.
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Tips & Warnings
Mix several different types of groundcover for a unique appearance. Colorful Anemones mixed with white Alyssum creates a floral bouquet look.
Before purchasing the groundcover, be sure to learn about the company's guarantee and return policy. Many places will guarantee the plants they sell for a year, but some require that you keep the shipping label or order form. Michigan Bulb Company has a lifetime guarantee for all plants they sell; they will replace plants or refund your money for as long as you garden.
