Planting Ground Covers | TN Nursery

Planting Ground Covers: Enhancing Beauty and Sustainability in Your Landscape

Ground covers are crucial in landscaping, providing many benefits beyond aesthetic appeal. These low-growing plants are typically utilized to cover large areas of soil, offering a range of advantages such as weed suppression, erosion control, soil stabilization, and habitat creation for beneficial insects. Whether you're looking to enhance the beauty of your outdoor space or promote sustainability, planting ground covers can be a wise and rewarding choice.

 

Aesthetic Appeal and Diversity

Ground covers come in various textures, colors, and growth habits, allowing you to create stunning visual effects within your landscape. From the delicate blossoms of creeping thyme to the dense foliage of pachysandra, ground covers offer an extensive palette of options to suit your design preferences. The diverse selection enables you to design intricate patterns, highlight specific areas, or soften hardscape elements like pathways and retaining walls. Combining different types of ground covers can result in a harmonious and dynamic landscape that changes with the seasons.

 

Weed Suppression and Erosion Control

One of the primary benefits of ground covers is their ability to suppress weed growth. By forming a dense carpet over the soil, they prevent weed seeds from receiving the sunlight they need to germinate, reducing the need for frequent weeding and herbicide application. This not only saves time and effort but also contributes to a healthier ecosystem by minimizing the use of harmful chemicals.

 

In addition to weed suppression, ground covers are vital in erosion control. The dense root systems of many ground cover plants help bind the soil together, preventing it from being washed away by heavy rainfall or irrigation. This can be particularly beneficial on slopes or in areas prone to erosion. By stabilizing the soil, ground covers contribute to your landscape's long-term health and stability.

 

Soil Health and Conservation

Ground covers are excellent allies in maintaining soil health. Their root systems enhance soil structure, improve water retention, and increase the soil's ability to hold nutrients. As ground covers create a protective layer over the earth, they shield it from direct sunlight, reducing evaporation and keeping the soil cooler during hot weather. This combination of factors contributes to healthier plants and reduced water usage, making them a sustainable choice for landscaping.

 

Habitat Creation

Ground covers in your landscape design can foster a diverse habitat for beneficial insects and other small wildlife. Many ground cover plants produce flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, aiding in pollinating other plants in your garden. Some ground covers, such as creeping thyme or sedum, can also provide shelter and forage for beneficial insects like ladybugs, which help control pest populations naturally. By promoting biodiversity, ground covers contribute to a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.

 

Low Maintenance Requirements

Ground covers are known for their low-maintenance nature, making them ideal for homeowners who want to enjoy a beautiful landscape without needing upkeep. Once established, many ground cover plants require minimal watering, and their dense growth naturally suppresses weeds. Additionally, their compact growth habit reduces the need for frequent pruning or trimming. This low-maintenance characteristic saves time and contributes to a more sustainable and efficient use of resources.

 

Planting and Caring for Ground Covers

When planting ground covers, several considerations are essential to ensure their success:

  1. Site Selection: Choose ground covers that are well-suited to the specific conditions of your site, including sunlight, soil type, and moisture levels.
  2. Preparation: Removing weeds, rocks, and debris prepares the planting area. Improve soil drainage and fertility if necessary.
  3. Spacing: Follow spacing guidelines to ensure proper coverage while avoiding overcrowding. Proper spacing allows each plant to receive adequate sunlight and nutrients.
  4. Watering:  Water newly planted ground covers regularly to establish their root systems. Once installed, most ground covers are drought-tolerant, but consistent watering during dry periods can promote healthier growth.
  5. Mulching: Put a layer of organic mulch around your ground cover plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
  6. Maintenance: While ground covers are low-maintenance, occasional maintenance may be required to control weeds, prune overgrowth, and promote healthy growth.

 

Planting ground covers involves strategically using low-growing plants to cover expansive soil areas, adding beauty and functionality to your landscape. These plants, renowned for their ability to create a seamless carpet-like effect, offer an array of benefits that make them an essential component of any well-designed outdoor space.

 

Biodiversity and Habitat:  Embracing ground covers fosters a mini ecosystem within your landscape. Many ground cover species produce nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators, supporting local biodiversity and promoting the health of neighboring plants. Some varieties even offer refuge for beneficial insects, acting as a natural pest control method.

 

Choosing the Right Ground Covers:  Before planting ground covers, it's crucial to consider factors such as sunlight exposure, soil type, and climate. Some popular choices include creeping Jenny for its vibrant yellow blooms, thyme for its fragrant foliage, and sedum for its drought tolerance. Research and consult with local gardening experts to determine the best options for your specific landscape.

Planting and Care:  Proper planting techniques set the stage for ground cover success. Clear the area of weeds and debris, amend the soil if necessary, and ensure proper spacing to allow room for growth. Water new plantings adequately to establish their root systems. 

In summary, planting ground covers is a dynamic and eco-conscious landscaping approach. These unassuming plants offer far-reaching advantages that extend beyond aesthetics. Whether you're seeking a vibrant tapestry of colors or aiming to combat erosion and promote soil health, ground covers are essential in creating a resilient and visually captivating outdoor environment.

 

Conclusion

Planting ground covers offers an array of benefits, from enhancing the visual appeal of your landscape to promoting sustainability and ecological balance. Choosing the right ground cover plants for your site and properly caring for them creates a beautiful and functional outdoor space that requires less maintenance, conserves resources, and contributes to a healthier environment. Whether covering a large expanse of soil, preventing erosion, or providing a habitat for beneficial insects, ground covers are an invaluable tool in landscape design and stewardship.

Best Sellers

Ground Covers - 25 Plants - TN Nursery

Ground Covers - 25 Plants Choosen to Thrive In Your Zone

Transform your outdoor spaces into a captivating, low-maintenance haven with Ground Covers. This well-picked mix of undergrowth plants guarantees a gorgeous, visually pleasing, functional landscape thanks to the range of colors, textures, and growth habits. Whether you want to control erosion, suppress weeds, or create a vibrant carpet of foliage, - 25 Flowers is your ultimate landscaping solution. PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE ARE A COLLECTION OF PLANTS, NOT SPECIFIC PLANT TYPES. WE CHOOSE TYPES THAT WORK BEST FOR YOUR ZONE ACCORDING TO YOUR ZIP CODE Ground Cover Grab Bag Just For You TN Nursery is proud to offer a grab bag that allows each customer to have a horticulturist assess which flowers best suit their needs according to their U.S.D.A. growing zone. Our specialists will hand-curate your order and delight you with 25 easy flowers to develop and maintain. We specialize in hardy, healthy species that thrive in various conditions. A Ground Cover Grab Bag Is Low-Maintenance  Ground cover plants can ensure a low-maintenance garden and provide several earth-friendly advantages. Consider these benefits: Soil Erosion Minimization: They help minimize soil erosion, especially in parts of the yard where you cannot get anything to grow. When you find the right ones, you help lessen the impact of soil erosion stemming from wind and rapid water runoff. Wildlife Support: They provide birds with foliage for nesting and hatching their young. Your grab bag will help them hide from predatory species. Weed Elimination: Planting thick, dense flowers helps eliminate weeds without manual weeding or chemical sprays that can harm healthy flower cells. Ground Cover Grab Bag Species  The grab bag can include a variety of species. Our horticultural specialist will review your growing zone and needs to create a perfectly customized package. Some items might include: Ornamental grasses (Sedge grass, Carex pensylvanica) Moss (Cushion moss, peat moss, fan clubmoss) Woody vines (Virginia creeper, English ivy) Perennial flowers (Creeping phlox, evening primrose, ragwort, bugleweed) TN Nursery has hundreds of vigorous species from which we will choose the best undergrowth species—just for YOU. If you are ready to be delighted and surprised, order your ground cover grab bag today. We are eager to select your flowers with love and care.

15 Ground Cover Favorites - TN Nursery

15 Ground Cover Favorites

The Nursery proudly offers the chance to purchase a ground cover grab bag containing ten healthy plants. This option allows each customer to have a horticulture specialist determine which ground cover plants will perform best in their U.S.D.A. growing zone. PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE ARE A COLLECTION OF PLANTS, NOT SPECIFIC PLANT TYPES. WE CHOOSE TYPES THAT WORK BEST FOR YOUR ZONE ACCORDING TO YOUR ZIP CODE Our horticulturists assess your zone and then hand-select your order. You will receive a surprise that includes a variety of 10 beautiful plants. T.N. Nursery specializes in growing species that are easy to care for and suitable for gardeners of every skill level. Ground Cover Vining Plant Favorites in One Collection This collection features several fantastic ground cover vining plants that you can use to cover your garden. These low plants grow along the world and easily cover broad space patches. They're a popular alternative for grass, and they also look pretty attractive when worked into landscaping features. We offer diverse options ranging from understated covers that fade into the background to eye-catching covers with unusual colors and features. The one thing all of these plants have in common is that they do a great job of growing along the earth's floor and providing even coverage across your landscape. Exciting Ways & Places To Plant The Ground Cover Favorites These versatile plants work in many situations. Some landscapers like to use them instead of grass to create a unique and beautiful-looking lawn. Others use them as coverage in between taller plants in flower beds. You can also design landscapes with dense clusters of these plants as borders for trees, sidewalks, patios, and more. Try one of our options when you might enjoy a low plant with high coverage. Enjoy A Variety Of Groundcovers With This Collection  Many different types of plants are available for property owners who need coverage for their earth floors. The best ones have a few attributes that help them stand out. Their dense coverage ensures your yard gets a lush coat of leaves and greenery instead of bare dirt peeking through. Good plants for coverage also tend to have a relatively short and regular appearance. They provide a low, even coating that coats the floor without distracting from the rest of your land. TN Nursery Has Some Fantastic Ground Cover Favorites When you want to find great plants to blanket your earth floor, check out our ground cover Favorites. We've looked far and wide to find the most popular options. These iconic plants are well-liked by both professional landscapers and amateur gardeners. When you choose from this bunch of plants, you can be confident you'll get an excellent option that blankets your floor with a lot of beautiful, natural greenery.

Vinca Minor - TN Nursery

Vinca Minor

The Vinca Minor has lush and evergreen foliage and delicate blue or white flowers, making it a popular choice for various outdoor spaces. While its benefits extend beyond its use in herbalism, let's explore its landscaping advantages. Vinca Minor, also called creeping myrtle, lesser periwinkle, or just myrtle, is a perennial beauty that instills a fetching charm in gardens, landscapes, and even potted plants. Vinca Minor Has Deep Emerald Green Foliage The leaves are a deep shade of rich emerald green, and most have a glossy, polished, or shiny appearance. They are typically oval-shaped with smooth edges, a thick texture, and prominent veins. Some species are varied. The plants can be erect or trailing. Leaves occur in pairs along the height of the stem, making the plant look lush and thick. The plant is graced with trailing stems and adorned with clusters of small blooms in white or in a pale, pastel purple-blue color that many people associate with serenity. Vinca Minor is active year-round.  Delicate little flowers appear early in spring and continue to bloom throughout spring and summer. Against a strikingly verdant backdrop provided by the rich green leaves, the clusters of blossoms are displayed to the best advantage. Creeping myrtles may look delicate. Nevertheless, they are hardy plants that tolerate harsh conditions gracefully. As perennial evergreen plants, they remain bright green throughout the winter. The Ground Cover Characteristics Of Vinca Minor This plant reaches only six inches when upright. However, the roots continue to grow underground every year, eventually becoming quite long. Although this plant has a medium growth rate, the roots can form a trailing mat, prostrate mat, or mounding mat. The stems like to get tangled up with each other, and as they do, they produce a thick mat of greenery that thrives all year. Vinca Minor Looks Great In Hanging Baskets Vinca Minor works well as trailers in large hanging baskets and tall pots. They provide superior coverage for hilly areas and can even be used in landscaping designs where you want subtle pops of color added to your existing ground-cover greenery. They have other uses as well. They have long been used in folk medicine to treat heart, nervous system, and GI tract conditions. The herb is thought to improve cognition and brain health. How do I care for Vinca Minor Vinca Minor requires little maintenance and grows in a variety of conditions. This plant is well adapted to an area that receives partial to full shade and has well-drained soil. It can do well in full sun if adequately watered.  Will Vinca Minor grow in my region  This plant can grow in temperate regions and is hardy to USDA zones 4-9. This feature gives the confidence that it will grow in gardens in different areas with varying climatic conditions.  How fast does Vinca Minor spread Vinca Minor is fast-growing, and once established, it will form a dense layer of green foliage. It is best used for erosion control and for covering bare spaces in the garden.  When does Vinca Minor bloom  This plant bears elegant blue, violet, or white flowers in spring and can flower sporadically in the summer. Its blossoms contribute a very beautiful sight when added to the prospects of any existing vegetation in the surroundings.  Is Vinca Minor easy to manage  Vica Minor is quite easy to manage. Prune to keep it free from messy shoots, though the plant is not very invasive. This makes it less demanding, and can easily grow on its own, thus appropriate for beginners as well as experts.

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