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Factors to Consider When Choosing Ground Covers
When selecting ground covers for your pathways, consider factors such as climate, sunlight exposure, and soil type. It’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to your local environment to ensure they thrive. Additionally, consider the growth habit and maintenance requirements of each plant. Some ground covers spread rapidly and require regular trimming, while others grow slowly and need minimal care. Finally, think about the visual effect you want to achieve, whether it’s a uniform look or a mix of textures and colors.
Overview of the Best Ground Covers for Pavers and Pathways
The best ground covers for pavers and pathways are those that are hardy, low-maintenance, and visually appealing. These plants should be able to withstand foot traffic and adapt to the specific conditions of your garden. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best ground covers, including the popular creeping thyme, that can help you achieve a lush and inviting garden path.
Creeping Thyme: A Versatile Ground Cover
Creeping thyme is a favorite among gardeners for its versatility and charming appearance. This aromatic herb forms a dense mat of tiny leaves and produces delicate purple or pink flowers in the summer. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, making it an excellent choice for sunny pathways. Creeping thyme is also known for its ability to withstand light foot traffic, releasing a pleasant fragrance when stepped on.
How to Plant and Maintain Creeping Thyme
To plant creeping thyme, start by preparing the soil between your pavers. Ensure it is well-drained and free of weeds. Space the thyme plants about 6 to 12 inches apart to allow them to spread. Water them regularly until they are established, then reduce watering as thyme prefers dry conditions. Prune the plants after flowering to maintain their shape and encourage new growth. Fertilize sparingly, as thyme does not require rich soil.
List of the Best 15 Ground Covers
Here is a list of the best 15 ground covers that can enhance the look of your pavers and pathways:
1. Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme is a low-growing perennial herb that forms a dense mat of foliage. It’s ideal for sunny areas and can tolerate light foot traffic. Its small, aromatic leaves and clusters of purple flowers make it a popular choice for pathways.
2. Irish Moss
Irish moss is a lush, green ground cover that thrives in cool, moist environments. It forms a soft, velvety carpet and is perfect for shady areas. Its tiny white flowers add a delicate touch to garden paths.
3. Blue Star Creeper
Blue star creeper is a hardy ground cover with small, star-shaped blue flowers. It spreads quickly and can tolerate moderate foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for filling spaces between pavers.
4. Dymondia
Dymondia, also known as silver carpet, is a drought-tolerant ground cover with silvery-green leaves. It forms a dense mat and produces small yellow flowers. Dymondia is perfect for sunny, dry areas and requires minimal maintenance.
5. Corsican Mint
Corsican mint is a fragrant ground cover with tiny, bright green leaves. It thrives in partial shade and moist soil. Its minty aroma and small purple flowers make it a charming addition to garden paths.
6. Sedum
Sedum, or stonecrop, is a succulent ground cover that comes in various colors and textures. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in sunny areas. Sedum’s fleshy leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers add interest to pathways.
7. Mazus
Mazus is a low-growing ground cover with small, purple or white flowers. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Mazus forms a dense mat and is ideal for filling gaps between pavers in shaded areas.
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