GROUND COVERS
GROUND COVERS
Ground cover plants not only take up all that spare space that weeds usually steal, but can also bring a whole host of other benefits. These plants can transform a dull space into a rich tapestry of leaf shapes, textures and colours by sprucing up challenging areas under trees, accent paths and foundations, and add visual interest to expansive sites. Even a seasonal show of flowers can be achieved using them. Ground cover plants form a living mulch of insulation, preventing soil erosion, weed germination and keep dust out of the air.
Planting:
Plant ground covers in spring or early summer so they have a chance to root well and are less likely to heave out of the ground in winter. Take time to assess the conditions of your site and prepare the soil before planting. Loosen soil on flat areas with a shovel and apply all-purpose fertiliser. Do not till steep slopes as it can cause erosion. Instead, after removing weeds, dig a hole for each plant the same depth as the root ball and twice as wide. Centre plant in hole and fill with Tui Premium Potting Mix. Space plants on their predicted spread ie if plant covers 25cm at maturity, then plant at 25cm intervals.
Care:
Weed control is a must until the ground cover is fully established. A 5cm layer of mulch will help to control weeds. On slopes, coarse netting can be used to hold the slope until the ground cover is established. It may take up to two years to establish a ground cover area. Begin fertilising 4 to 6 weeks after planting, then the following Spring. Early spring is a good time to lightly prune, removing dead branches and damaged tips to encourage new growth. Remove and discard diseased leaves and plants immediately to stop infections spreading to healthy plants. Clean up fallen leaves and debris accumulated on top of ground covers to allow air to circulate.
Examples of Ground Covers:
A good ground cover requires minimal maintenance to look its best and can be characterised as either a clumping spreader or a carpeter. Clumping spreaders, like Hosta Cultivars, increase in size as they send out their outward-arching leaves each spring. They rarely need division. Carpeters (or creepers) spread by underground stems (rhizomes) or move across the soil surface rooting at points where leaf nodes touch the ground, eg Bugleweed (Ajuga Reptans) or Creeping Thyme.
Suggested Ground Covers for:
Moist areas: Ajuga, Drought tolerant - Ceanothus
Shade: Sedum Makinoiogon, Flowering - Lithospermum Grace Ward
Native: Fuchsia Procumbens, Aromatic - Coleonema Sunset Gold
Hanging Basket: Dichondra Silver Falls, Hardy - Vinca
Between pavers: Mondo Grass or Chamomile Arid - Succulents