Fall's Approaching, but it's Not Too Late to Plant These Speedy Ground Cover Options
I've got a weird fascination with dirt, whether it's staring at it beneath my feet in the yard or daydreaming about the dirt in a run-down potting shed. Exposed dirt is a red flag for two things - erosion and weeds. To combat these issues, ground cover plants are the best way to go.
But wait, isn't it too late for ground cover in the fall? Absolutely not! There are a few fast-growing options that can still establish roots before winter sets in. So, gather your gardening gloves and let's dive into some of the best ground covers out there.
What is Ground Cover?
Ground cover refers to low-lying, spread-out plants that form a close-knit mat, hugging the soil's surface. They are self-seeding and highly resilient, and you can find native options for every climate. The best place to seek them out is your local nursery.
Clover
I'm a huge fan of clover. Whether it's the perennial white clover that's easy to seed or the various colored clovers like red, strawberry, and purple, top-dressing is the way to go. These clovers spread quickly on their own, and while you can mow them for a uniform look, it's not required. Clover blooms beautifully, sets seeds, and initiates the cycle again.
Creeping Thyme
Thyme is yet another love of mine. Thyme forms clumps and spills over edges, creating a stunning display in spring. Flowers will attract pollinators, and there are various dazzling colors to choose from. Creeping thyme loves well-drained soil, is drought-tolerant, and thrives in rock walls.
Creeping Phlox
If you're looking for pops of color, creeping phlox is perfect. It blooms pink flowers in the spring but is evergreen, providing leaves throughout the winter. It loves the sun and forms a dense mat to block out weeds.
Candytuft
Candytuft produces beautiful, large blooms in the spring and is perfect for partial sun areas. It makes a pretty accent along walkways or around beds.
Creeping Jenny
For a bold, vibrant electric green, Creeping Jenny is the way to go. It prefers moisture but not clay soil and thrives in partial shady spots with drainage. Creeping Jenny is an excellent choice for rock walls or pathways. Consider planting it around a water feature.
Dichondra
If you're looking for a non-flowering plant, Dichondra may be the way to go. It grows quickly and creates a rich carpet, but it can spread quickly, so be prepared to monitor your plants. Dichondra loves sunlight and demands exceptional drainage.
Creeping Juniper
Last but not least, Creeping Juniper. It's basically a mini Christmas tree that grows on the ground and is evergreen. It's a fun addition to your yard, especially in the winter when other plants are bare.
I decided to incorporate a few of these ground covers into my own yard, including Clover and Dichondra. They've helped improve the appearance of my dirt and combat weed growth.
Additional Options for Autumn Gardening
If you're looking for more options for autumn gardening, consider the following fast-growing, low-maintenance ground cover choices:
- Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum)
- Massachusetts Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts')
- Evergreen Currant (Ribes viburnifolium)
- Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
- Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica)
- Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
These options provide a variety of benefits, including erosion control, drought tolerance, and attractive flowers and foliage. Happy gardening!
