Fast-Growing Ground Cover Plants

Ground cover plants are a gardener’s best friend. They’re the unsung heroes of the garden, filling in gaps, suppressing weeds, and adding a lush, carpet-like texture to your landscape. 

Among these, fast-growing varieties are particularly prized for their ability to quickly establish themselves and provide immediate benefits. But what makes them so special, and how can you incorporate them into your garden? Let’s dive in.

What Are Ground Cover Plants?

Definition and Characteristics

Ground cover plants are low-growing plants that spread quickly to cover the soil. They can be grasses, perennials, shrubs, or even vines. Their primary role is to cover the ground, reduce soil erosion, and prevent weed growth.

Types of Ground Cover Plants

Ground cover plants come in various forms, including flowering plants, evergreens, and deciduous varieties. Some are mat-forming, spreading horizontally, while others grow in clumps and spread through roots or runners.

Benefits of Fast-Growing Ground Cover Plants

Soil Erosion Control

One of the most significant benefits of fast-growing ground cover plants is their ability to stabilize soil. Their roots hold the soil together, preventing erosion caused by wind and water.

Weed Suppression

These plants act as a natural mulch, covering the soil so thoroughly that weeds have little room to grow. This reduces the need for chemical herbicides and makes garden maintenance easier.

Aesthetic Appeal

Ground cover plants add a cohesive look to your garden. They can create a lush, green backdrop for other plants, add color with their flowers, and offer year-round interest, especially if you choose evergreen varieties.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Ground Cover Plants

Climate Suitability

Not all ground cover plants thrive in every climate. It’s essential to select varieties that are suited to your local conditions, whether it’s hot and dry, cool and wet, or somewhere in between.

Soil Type

Different plants have different soil preferences. Some ground covers thrive in well-drained sandy soils, while others prefer rich, loamy earth. Knowing your soil type can guide you in selecting the best plants.

Sunlight Requirements

Ground cover plants vary in their sunlight needs. Some require full sun, while others thrive in partial shade or even full shade. Make sure to match the plant’s needs with the available light in your garden.

Maintenance Needs

Consider how much time you can dedicate to garden maintenance. Some ground cover plants are low-maintenance, requiring little more than occasional watering and pruning, while others might need more attention.

Top Fast-Growing Ground Cover Plants

Creeping Thyme

Characteristics

Creeping Thyme is a fragrant, evergreen ground cover that produces tiny, purple flowers in the summer. It’s low-growing, usually staying under 6 inches tall, and spreads quickly.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Creeping Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s drought-tolerant once established and can handle light foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for between stepping stones or along pathways.

Sedum (Stonecrop)

Characteristics

Sedum, also known as Stonecrop, is a succulent ground cover with thick, fleshy leaves that store water. It produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in various colors.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Sedum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It’s extremely drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions, making it perfect for rock gardens or areas with sandy soil.

Vinca Minor (Periwinkle)

Characteristics

Vinca Minor, or Periwinkle, is an evergreen ground cover with glossy, dark green leaves and purple-blue flowers. It spreads quickly through trailing stems that root at the nodes.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Periwinkle grows well in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It’s a great choice for shaded areas under trees or along shaded borders.

Ajuga (Bugleweed)

Characteristics

Ajuga, commonly known as Bugleweed, is a low-growing perennial with vibrant foliage that ranges from green to deep burgundy. It produces spikes of blue flowers in the spring.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Ajuga thrives in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and is known for its rapid spread, making it excellent for filling large areas quickly.

Pachysandra

Characteristics

Pachysandra is an evergreen ground cover with glossy, green leaves and small white flowers. It’s particularly effective in shaded areas where other plants might struggle.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Pachysandra prefers full to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It’s an excellent choice for shady spots, such as under trees or along the north side of buildings.

Planting and Care Tips

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Loosen the soil to improve drainage and add compost or organic matter to enrich it.

Plant ground covers according to the recommended spacing on the plant tag. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and fill it with soil. Water thoroughly after planting.

Water new plantings regularly until they are established. Once established, most ground cover plants are drought-tolerant and require less frequent watering. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Prune ground cover plants to control their spread and remove dead or damaged foliage. Regular pruning encourages new growth and keeps the plants looking tidy.

Using Ground Cover Plants in Landscaping

Designing with Ground Covers

Ground cover plants can be used to create beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes. They work well in borders, under trees, and on slopes. Combine different textures and colors to add interest to your garden.

Combining with Other Plants

Ground covers can be combined with taller plants, shrubs, and trees to create a layered effect. They can also be used to fill gaps between larger plants, providing a seamless look.

Seasonal Considerations

Choose a mix of evergreen and deciduous ground covers to ensure year-round interest. Evergreen varieties provide color and texture even in winter, while deciduous plants can offer seasonal flowers and foliage changes.

Common Problems and Solutions

Pests and Diseases

Ground cover plants can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails. Regular monitoring and natural pest control methods, like introducing beneficial insects, can help manage these problems. Diseases like root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.

Overgrowth Management

Fast-growing ground covers can become invasive if not managed properly. Regular pruning and thinning can help control their spread. Using physical barriers, like edging, can also prevent unwanted spread.

Soil Issues

Poor soil conditions can hinder the growth of ground cover plants. Improving soil quality with compost and organic matter can help. If soil drainage is an issue, consider installing a drainage system or choosing plants that tolerate wet conditions.

Conclusion

Fast-growing ground cover plants are a versatile and practical solution for any garden. They control soil erosion, suppress weeds, and add aesthetic appeal with minimal maintenance. 

By considering factors like climate, soil type, and sunlight requirements, you can choose the perfect ground cover plants for your landscape. 

Whether you opt for the fragrant Creeping Thyme, the hardy Sedum, or the vibrant Ajuga, these plants will quickly transform your garden into a lush, green oasis.

FAQs

What is the fastest-growing ground cover plant?

Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is often considered one of the fastest-growing ground cover plants. It spreads rapidly and can quickly cover large areas.

How do I prevent ground cover plants from becoming invasive?

To prevent ground cover plants from becoming invasive, regularly prune and thin them. Using physical barriers, like garden edging, can also help control their spread.

Can ground cover plants survive in shady areas?

Yes, many ground cover plants thrive in shady areas. Varieties like Vinca Minor (Periwinkle) and Pachysandra are particularly well-suited for low-light conditions.

Do ground cover plants require a lot of maintenance?

Most ground cover plants are low-maintenance once established. They typically require occasional watering, pruning, and fertilization to stay healthy and look their best.

How do I choose the right ground cover plant for my garden?

Choose ground cover plants based on your garden’s specific conditions, such as climate, soil type, and sunlight availability. Consider the plant’s growth rate, maintenance needs, and aesthetic appeal to find the best fit for your landscape.