The living mulch effect
Ground covers act like a natural mulch, protecting the soil from harsh conditions. Instead of topping up bark or straw every season, these plants do the job permanently. They shade the soil, slowing down evaporation so moisture stays where it’s needed. In hot, dry weather, this can make a big difference to how well the rest of your garden copes.
Weed less, enjoy more
Weeds are the ultimate opportunists! Give them a patch of bare soil and they’ll move in quickly. Ground covers block sunlight, making it harder for weeds to sprout. Once your ground cover is established, it does the weed control for you!
Preventing erosion and compaction
Rain, wind and even regular foot traffic can wear soil away or leave it hard and compacted, but ground covers provide a protective layer. Their roots bind the soil together and their foliage cushions it from heavy rain - especially helpful on sloping areas, where erosion can be a major problem.
Adding colour and softness
Flowering groundcovers like native violet and simple white alyssum can turn plain spaces into attractive features. Foliage varieties such as dichondra or Mondo grass create lush carpets that soften hard landscaping or spill elegantly over walls and edges. By choosing a mix you can add texture and colour to areas that may be looking a bit dull.
Supporting pollinators and wildlife
Many ground covers produce flowers that attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. This supports the wider health of your garden, helping pollinate fruit trees and veggies. Even non-flowering ground covers create shelter for insects and small creatures that form part of a balanced garden ecosystem.
Choosing the right type
The best ground cover depends on your garden’s conditions. For sunny, dry spots, hardy options like creeping thyme or native pigface do well with little water. Shadier areas may suit violets or dichondra. Some ground covers tolerate light foot traffic, making them ideal for pathways or between stepping stones, while others are better for borders and banks.
Where to use them
Ground covers are versatile. They can:
- Fill awkward corners or narrow strips where other plants struggle
- Cover banks and slopes where mowing is near impossible
- Replace or complement lawns in small yards
- Weave through garden beds to tie planting together
- Add softness around pavers, stepping stones and edging
They may not be dramatic showpieces, but ground covers are among the most effective tools in a gardener’s kit. They protect soil, reduce maintenance, attract pollinators and bring beauty to overlooked spaces. Nice!
