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I need some groundcover suggestions please!
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Posted by lake_gardener 6 (My Page) on Fri, May 9, 08 at 15:17
| Wow! Where to begin? I need some suggestions for a fast spreading, low groundcover for my infrequently traversed backyard. I live on a second tier lot overlooking the lake and a few houses. My backyard is a steep, rocky, clay and below my property is an access road (paved) for the homes below me. They get to look at a wall of dirt and I'm sure they would prefer to look at something more pleasant. I was thinking something that would creep down the sides but would not crawl across the road once it reached it. I am in the process of clearing a lot of brush that will leave this space bare,except for the smaller weeds and roots. Perhaps something that can choke these out? I am also looking for something that will help with the erosion onto that road below me. The expense of a retaining wall would be much too great as it is approximately 15,000 sq.ft. This would probably need to be seed since there is so much area to cover. The area gets sun most of the day and would be difficult to keep watered. I would like something evergreen and if it had some color that would be nice. I hope someone can help me and I thank you in advance. |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: I need some groundcover suggestions please!
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| The fastest way would to plant it in wildflowers because the area is so large but it's not evergreen. Junipers would be the ideal but they would cost as much as a wall, but maybe you could find a wholesaler that would sell lining out stock. Whatever you decide there will be no easy solution, because seeds generally need water to germinate so you will have to weigh the alternatives time versus money. |
Here is a link that might be useful: Propagating Perennials
RE: I need some groundcover suggestions please!
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| Hmmm, interesting dilemma. Sounds like fairly rapid growth, and drought tolerance are key. A groundcover-type Rosmarianus would fit your needs, but may not be hardy where you live. And I agree the Junipers would be good. Look these up, and see if they'll fit your needs: Oenothera speciosa, Fragaria chiloensis, Potentilla neumanniana, Phlox subulata, Vinca major, Ceanothus griseus horizontalis and some Cotoneaster. Good luck. |
RE: I need some groundcover suggestions please!
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Thanks so much for your insights. I'm still not sure what I'll do, but the other few homeowners have suggested ivy. What are your thoughts on this? They might be inclined to help with the cost, but I'm afraid that it will creep onto the road below. I'm still researching all of your suggestions. Thanks again.
Kim |
RE: I need some groundcover suggestions please!
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| Ivy is good but it is very invasive although a cheap alternative until it becomes a nuisance then you might wish for other options. I know HD carries Blue Pacific in one gallons so you might check Wally World. FYI, Blue Rug is a very slow grower. |
RE: I need some groundcover suggestions please!
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| Ground cover Comfrey, Symphytum ibericum, is very tough, will overcome weeds, and blooms in the spring with blue tubular flowers that turn pink then white. It is evergreen and spreads well. 
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