How Do I Incorporate Native Groundcovers And Mosses Into My Garden Design For Erosion Control?
Groundcovers are a great way to add beauty and texture to your garden while also providing practical benefits such as weed suppression and erosion control. If you are looking for groundcover options for your full sun areas, you are in luck. In this article, we will explore some of the best native plants for this purpose.
Phlox subulata
Phlox subulata, also known as creeping phlox, is a low-growing, perennial plant that is native to North America. It produces masses of colorful, star-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, making it a great choice for adding color to your garden. This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure, but can also tolerate some shade.
Some of the key benefits of phlox subulata include:
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Requires little maintenance
- Can be used to cover slopes and rocky areas
Thyme
Thyme is a low-growing, herbaceous plant that is native to the Mediterranean region but can also be found in other parts of the world. It has a pleasant fragrance and is often used in culinary and medicinal applications. Thyme prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure but can also tolerate some shade.
Some of the key benefits of thyme include:
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Has antiseptic and antibacterial properties
- Can be used as a groundcover or as a border plant
Sedum
Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a succulent plant that is native to rocky or mountainous areas. It has thick, fleshy leaves and produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers during the summer. Sedum prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure but can also tolerate some shade.
Some of the key benefits of sedum include:
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Can be used to cover slopes and rocky areas
- Has a unique texture and appearance
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
Creeping Juniper
Creeping juniper is a low-growing evergreen shrub that is native to North America and Asia. It has dark green foliage and produces small, blue-gray berries that are a favorite of many birds. Creeping juniper prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure but can also tolerate some shade.
Some of the key benefits of creeping juniper include:
- Provides year-round interest with its evergreen foliage
- Tolerates both drought and heat well
- Can be used to cover slopes and rocky areas
- Has a unique texture and appearance
Black-Eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan is a herbaceous perennial that is native to North America. It produces masses of bright yellow flowers with dark centers that bloom from early summer to early fall. Black-eyed Susan prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure but can also tolerate some shade.
Some of the key benefits of black-eyed Susan include:
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Can be used as a cut flower
- Easy to grow and requires little maintenance
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding native groundcovers to your garden is an excellent way to add beauty, texture, and practical benefits. Whether you are looking to cover a slope or rocky area, attract pollinators, or simply add some color to your garden, there are many great options available. Consider incorporating some of these groundcovers into your full sun areas for a beautiful and low-maintenance garden.
