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Groundcovers
PACHYSANDRA(Pachysandra
Termilnalis)
This evergreen groundcover is an incomparable landscape plant.
Rapidly covering the ground with a blanket of dark green glossy
leaves that crowds out most weeds. Spreads by long underground
runners. Plant 6 to 10 inches apart in LIGHT TO FULL SHADE.
Fertile, humus rich, moist, acid soil is best. Great for large
areas beneath trees. Mulch to prevent weeds during establishment.
Control by edging.
ENGLISH IVY(Hedera
Helix)
Attractive evergreen groundcover or vine. As groundcover roots
form along stems and can get dense enough to replace lawn areas,
even under shallow rooted trees. Deep roots can help control
erosion on banks. (Vines can cling to wood, rock, bark, metal,
& concrete) PART TO FULL SHADE. Best in fertile, humus rich,
moist, acidic soil, but tolerates poorer conditions. Protect from
winter sun. Trim back twice a year to control.
MYRTLE/PERIWINKLE(Vinca
Minor)
An elegant blanket under shrubs and trees. Grows well with bulbs
and perennials. Myrtle is an excellent evergreen groundcover with
1-2 inch glossy dark green leaves. In spring, small small
lavender-blue flowers decorate the plant for about a month. FULL
SUN TO FULL SHADE. Space 10 inches apart for quick cover. Divide
clumps in spring to increase plants. Apply mulch to stop weeds
when first planted. Apply high phosphorous fertilizer and keep
well watered during first year. Prefers an acid soil.
AJUGA(Ajuga Reptous)
Ground hugging, rapidly spreading, acid-loving perennial with
beautifully textured foliage and spikes of lavender-blue late
spring flowers. Excellent carpeting groundcover beneath shrubs,
trees, or in mixed borders. LIGHT TO FULL SHADE; TOLERATES FULL
SUN IF KEPT MOIST. Fertile, well drained, moist soil; moderate to
plentiful even moisture. Spreads rapidly; divide anytime during
growing season. Remove spent flowers to prevent seeding and
improve appearance.
EUONYMOUS/WINTER
CREEPER
Rounded, leathery, dark green evergreen leaves make a dense,
durable groundcover in sunny or shady sites; controls erosion.
Leaves turn overall maroon in winter sun. FULL SUN TO SHADE.
Average well-drained acidic soil. Moderate moisture; tolerates
drought once established. Space 18-24 inches apart. Can be
mown(set mower blade high) in spring to make uniform. Cut back
yearly to keep in bounds. May need to weed until plants fill in.
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