The heroes under your feet: Discover the benefits of groundcovers
Groundcovers are often overlooked in landscape design, as attention typically gravitates toward more eye-catching specimen plants. However, they are essential components, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Available in a range of sizes, colors and textures, groundcovers serve as the backdrop to the landscape canvas, filling in gaps and enhancing features while offering functions such as erosion control, weed suppression and wildlife habitat.
Design considerations: Groundcovers play a crucial role in unifying landscape elements and adding visual appeal. With careful selection and placement, you can achieve a harmonious blend of textures and colors, creating interesting contrasts to larger plants and landscape features. They are particularly useful in oddly shaped areas, such as narrow or tight spaces where mowing and edging may be difficult.
Functional applications: In addition to their aesthetic value, groundcovers serve multiple functional roles. They can effectively control erosion, especially in areas unsuitable for traditional lawn grass. Planted under trees and shrubs, they not only reduce mower damage, but species can be selected that thrive in shaded conditions. Additionally, groundcovers minimize weeds, retain soil moisture, and can support habitat for insects and food for pollinators.
Choosing the right groundcover: The choice of groundcover depends on factors like sunlight exposure, space requirements and desired height. Whether filling bare spots or replacing large lawn areas, selecting species suited to the specific conditions ensures successful establishment. Native species are recommended for their ecological benefits and adaptability to local environments. Additionally, avoiding invasive species prevents future management issues.
Planting tips: Proper soil preparation and removal of weeds is crucial for successful establishment. Plant spacing should be strategic, and should consider how fast the groundcover will grow and cover the area. Space groundcovers 6 inches to 2 feet apart in a staggered pattern. Add mulch if needed during establishment to minimize weed pressures, and water regularly at the beginning to establish good root systems.
Groundcovers can offer a multitude of benefits ranging from aesthetic enhancement to practical solutions for challenging planting sites. By incorporating these versatile plants into landscape designs and adopting appropriate maintenance practices, homeowners can create visually appealing, ecologically beneficial outdoor spaces while reducing long-term upkeep requirements.
To learn more about groundcovers, come to the “Making a Difference with Groundcovers” presentation from 3 to 4:30 p.m. April 9 at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry, FL 32669).
For gardening questions, reach out to the UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County’s office to speak with a Master Gardener Volunteer at 955-2402 or mag@alachuacounty.us.
— Dr. Cynthia Nazario-Leary is the Environmental and Community Horticulture Extension Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County. Contact her at cnazarioleary@ufl.edu or 955-2402.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: The heroes under your feet: Discover the benefits of groundcovers
