What is a ground cover plant?
A groundcover is any low-growing plant (less than an inch to up to four feet in height) that can form a dense soil cover to help control erosion and suppress the growth of weeds. Groundcover plants are low growing perennials that spread by trailing stems and cover an area of the ground. Groundcovers provide an excellent alternative for turfgrasses in shade and other tough areas in the landscape.Spreading groundcover is the cheapest lawn replacement option. If you can get a couple of good spreading Ceanothus or Rosemary plants going you can cover an entire frontyard with 10-20 plants.
What is the best ground cover to use instead of mulch?
Straw. For a farm-friendly feeling to your garden, nothing beats straw. A convenient and moisture-friendly natural product, straw is a good choice for an alternative to mulch. Straw is perfect for vegetable gardens since it can help keep your vegetables and fruits off the ground (no more mushy strawberries? One popular method involves spreading mulch. Organic mulch not only covers the dirt but also benefits your garden by preventing weeds and retaining moisture. If you prefer a more solid ground cover, gravel is a cost-effective option that adds a neat and polished look to your backyard.Mulch, such as wood chips or straw, helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and enhances soil health. Common ground covers like clover or creeping thyme provide the same services as mulch but also control erosion, reduce maintenance, and add aesthetic appeal to gardens.
What is the cheapest ground cover for a garden?
Gravel is one of the cheapest ground cover options for garden landscaping. It is versatile and allows for good drainage. If you prefer a green ground cover, white clover or thyme are affordable options. Footpaths with Exposed Soil: Cover with Mulch or Gravel For areas with heavy foot traffic, stepping stones or a gravel or mulch path can be used to cover and protect eroded areas. Vegetation can be used to line the borders of these high-traffic areas.