Dreaming of Ground Covers as a Grass Replacement? Try These.
Tired of constant lawn maintenance? Discover the advantage of Florida ground covers! From the drought-tolerant perennial peanut to shade-loving mondo grass, there are many plant and non-plant options that say “no” to yard work and water usage.
As a Florida homeowner, you’re probably familiar with the constant upkeep your lawn requires. Mowing, fertilizing, watering, and battling pests and fungus can feel like a never-ending cycle.
What if there was a way to reduce this workload while maintaining an attractive landscape? Enter ground covers: the unsung heroes of low-maintenance gardening.
Why Consider Ground Covers?
Ground covers are plants that spread horizontally, creating a dense mat of foliage. They can be an excellent alternative to traditional grass lawns, especially in areas where grass struggles to grow or in spots you’d rather not mow. By incorporating ground covers into your landscaping, you can:
- Reduce time spent on lawn maintenance
- Lower water usage
- Decrease the need for fertilizers and pesticides
- Add visual interest to your yard
Florida-Friendly Ground Cover Options
Read on for some ground cover plants that thrive in Florida’s unique climate.
Perennial Peanut (Arachis glabrata)
This drought-tolerant plant produces small yellow flowers and requires minimal maintenance. You should know ahead of time that it is slow to establish itself, so plan accordingly. It may need occasional edging, but not as much as your typical turfgrass.
Asiatic Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum)
This ground cover forms a dense mat that tolerates full sun to partial shade. For best results, plant it in a contained area as it grows aggressively and invasively when left unchecked.
Sunshine Mimosa (Mimosa strigillosa)
A Florida native, this plant attracts pollinators and produces pink powder-puff flowers. Similar to the Asiatic jasmine, the sunshine mimosa grows and spreads aggressively.
Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)
The pros of this ground cover include its shade tolerance and drought resistance once it has established itself. It grows slowly but may need to be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding.
Beyond Plants: Non-Living Ground Covers
Consider these non-plant ground cover options if you’re looking for even less maintenance or want to mix things up.
- River Rock: Creates a natural-looking, water-wise landscape
- Mulch: Offers a variety of colors, helps retain soil moisture and regulate ground temperature
- Pearl Gravel: Provides excellent drainage and a clean look
- Flagstones: Perfect for creating pathways or seating areas
The Best of Both Worlds
Remember, you don’t have to choose between all grass or all ground cover. Many Florida homeowners find success in combining traditional lawns with ground cover areas. You might use ground covers in shaded areas where grass struggles, create borders around trees or flower beds with low-growing plants, or replace grass on slopes or hard-to-mow areas with spreading ground covers.
Low Maintenance, High Enjoyment
By thoughtfully incorporating ground covers into your landscape, you can create a unique, low-maintenance yard that stands out in your neighborhood. Plus, you’ll have more time to enjoy your outdoor space instead of constantly working on it.