Why Use Ground Cover?
Ground cover plants are the hardest-working members of any garden. They suppress weeds, prevent soil erosion, retain moisture, and look beautiful doing it. If you have slopes, pathways, spaces between stepping stones, or areas where grass struggles, ground cover is your answer.
Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme is one of the most versatile and beloved ground covers available. It forms a dense, fragrant mat just 2-4 inches tall, studded with tiny lavender, pink, or white flowers in summer. It's drought-tolerant once established, handles light foot traffic, and releases a wonderful herbal scent when stepped on. Plant it between stepping stones, along pathways, or as a lawn alternative in sunny areas.
Annual Phlox
For fast, colorful ground coverage from seed, annual phlox is hard to beat. It produces dense clusters of sweetly fragrant blooms in vibrant pinks, purples, and whites, growing just 6-12 inches tall. It's perfect for filling borders and adding a carpet of color to bare patches.
Planting Tips
Most ground covers prefer well-drained soil and at least 6 hours of sun. Space plants according to their mature spread — they'll fill in within one to two seasons. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots, then most ground covers become quite drought-tolerant.
Ground Cover as Living Mulch
One of the best uses for ground cover is planting it beneath taller flowers and shrubs. Creeping thyme under climbing roses is a classic combination — the thyme suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and creates a beautiful textural contrast with the roses above.