Ground cover plants

Printable Version

These miniature forms of perennials, conifers, shrubs and bulbs offer an almost endless choice, not only of flower colour but of overall shape, foliage and a diversity of usage.

Growing alpines

Growing alpines on a rockery can achieve spectacular displays with the colour and form of the plant complementing the bulk of the rock. They also make good container plants on the patio and can look superb in raised beds. Some will grow successfully in hanging baskets and in crevices or pockets in dry stone walls and between paving stones. Varieties such as Thyme can be planted en masse to give colourful and scented carpets.

Choosing your plants

When choosing plants, most will be expected to be low-growing, but always check the label. The ultimate spread will also vary and many can grow to cover several square metres, and if you are not careful the stronger plants will swamp the less invasive types.

	Sempervivum (House leek)
	Alpines in wall crevices

Soil preparation

All areas to be planted should be well dug. On heavy or wet soils add liberal amounts of sharp sand or grit. This will improve drainage and prevent plants 'suffocating' or rotting during periods of heavy rain, and ensure that roots are insulated from penetrating frosts.

Weed eradication

Weeds are the alpine's number one enemy and once they become established amongst alpines they are almost impossible to eradicate. It is important that weeds such as Couch Grass (Twitch), Ground Elder, Bindweed, Docks, Dandelions etc. are completely eradicated before planting starts.

Alpines in a trough

Watering

Whilst establishing, and during dry periods, all plants require watering but try to water around the edge of the plant and not in the centre, as many dislike direct watering onto their foliage. All plants require feeding so apply a general fertilizer in mid Spring. This will normally supply all they require for the rest of the year.

Moisture retention

Applying a layer of rock chips, grit sand or small gauge gravel over the soil looks more natural and aids the retention of moisture. It will also reduce the possibility of root damage by Winter cold.

Protection

Full sun is important but this also exposes the plants to Winter cold, and a few may require protection in the worst months of Winter. They grow best on well-drained soil with just a few needing more moisture retention and some require an acid (lime-free) soil - it is always advisable to check with your Garden Centre Nursery.

Pruning

Pruning is important if plants are to do well.

Most of the carpet-forming types such as Aurinia (Alyssum), Aubretia, Iberis (Perennial Candytuft), Saponaria (Rock Sopwort), Thymus (Thyme) and Veronica (Spiked Speedwell), respond well to a 'short top and sides' after flowering.

The easiest way to achieve this is to place a dinner or tea plate, depending on the side of the plant, on top of the plant and cut back any protruding growth. Remove the plate and trim approximately the top by 25%.