Research Center » Landscaping » Landscape Design

Ground Cover

Skip the cedar bark or ubiquitous juniper. There are better ways to discourage weeds and cover soil beautifully.

Attractive ground covers come in all sorts of colors and textures. Our guides can help you choose the right one to match your climate — and even reduce the amount of grass you need to mow!

Creeping Phlox Guide: How to Plant and Grow Creeping Phlox

Flower Gardens

If you’re looking for a flowering ground cover that’s not only beautiful but also easy to grow, then Creeping Phlox ...

30 Best Ground Cover Plants (Low-Maintenance Options)

Flower Gardens

Ground cover plants are not only versatile but also super easy to care for. Although turfgrasses are the most common residential ground cover plants, some places just aren’t suitable for them. That’s where alternative ground cover plants come in handy! They can be used to decorate the spaces between stepping stones, fill in shady spots (like between tree roots), or replace grass (especially on slopes and hills that are hard to mow). Plus, not only does the low-growing foliage look nice, but ground cover plants have a lot of other benefits as well. They stop weeds from growing, control erosion, protect nearby plants from harsh winters, and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. In this article, as a master gardener, I’ve put together a list of the 30 best ground cover plants for your backyard, including colorful flowers, succulents, and evergreens. These ground cover plants will improve the curb appeal of your home, no matter if you have a tiny garden or a sizable landscaped yard. You’ll find key information such as sun conditions and zone requirements for each of them to help you quickly narrow down the options to find the ideal one for your garden.