It can take a while to become established and spread naturally. That’s because moss is a bryophyte – a non-vascular plant that absorbs moisture from the air to grow successfully.ĭespite these technical details, moss is not difficult to grow. In fact, moss doesn’t have roots at all, and even the green growth is not technically leaves. Moss spreads through spores rather than roots. Growing moss as a ground cover can seem difficult because these plants are not quite like the others you have in your garden. But if you have a shady spot to fill, often under trees where growing grass can be tricky, moss is a great alternative. The previous two options are great for sunny areas and those who love a garden full of flowers. Moss It can be challenging to grow as a ground cover due to its lack of roots and technically non-leaf green growth. They can also tolerate lower temperatures than they are used to and a little drought for short periods. They grow and flower best in full sun but can also handle some partial shade. It should also be kept away from vulnerable and slow-growing plants as these competitive plants are known to smother others.Īs long as growth doesn’t get out of hand, Blue Star Creepers are incredibly easy to care for. Growth needs to be monitored as the tough roots are difficult to remove. But in these ideal conditions, it does grow rapidly which can become a concern. Like Creeping Phlox, the flowers appear in late spring and continue to pop up into fall.īlue Star Creeper is best for growing in USDA Zones 6-8. These adorable blooms are pastel blue in color and shaped just like stars with five petals on each flower. Blue Star Creeper This plant should be watched carefully since its strong, difficult-to-remove roots can suffocate other plants.īlue Star Creeper is another low-maintenance option known for adapting well to a wide range of conditions.Įvident in the common name, this ground cover produces masses of delicate flowers on spreading vines. Their growth is considered moderate, so these plants will need some time to establish before they can completely cover bare patches. Pruning can help keep them tidy when they begin to look unruly. They are not particularly thirsty plants, but do need additional watering when temperatures are high in summer. It is also a great flowering ground cover to plant between pavers for a pop of color.Ĭreeping Phlox prefers full sun positions, although they will grow in partial shade with fewer flowers. It is typically planted in rock gardens or around stone landscaping features. Growing in USDA Zones 5-9, this Phlox species is wonderfully low maintenance. These blooms are also great for attracting pollinators, improving the biodiversity of your garden rather than limiting it. This perennial is a popular border plant but can also serve as a grass replacement in the right hardiness zones.įrom late spring and throughout the summer months, you’ll be treated to masses of blooms that turn the previous lawn into a visual feast. If you want to replace your grass with something a little more colorful, Creeping Phlox is ideal. Physical removal is best for low-growing weeds such as crabgrass, dandelion, and plantain and of course for all perennial weeds.Creeping Phlox In rock gardens and around stone landscaping accents, this low-maintenance Phlox species is commonly used. For taller annual weeds, careful mowing over the top of the seedlings can help keep these under control while the thyme is establishing. You will need to diligently remove weeds during the first and second growing seasons. Freshly exposed soil is often loaded with weed seeds. Thyme, once established, competes well with weeds. A dormant fall sowing in late fall is effective too. After that grow on under lights at a slightly cooler temperature before hardening off and transplanting outside in full sun. Keep at 20 C (70 F) for the 14 to 21 days (sometimes longer) germination period. Or start indoors in a soil-less mix 8 weeks before the last heavy frost. 1 g sows 6 m2 (66 sq.ft) How to GrowĬreeping Thyme likes to be direct-sown in the cool wet conditions of early spring. Small purple flowers appear in early July and produce a nice lemon scent when brushed. Excellent for filling in between patio stones. May be lightly mowed from time to time to keep plants low and encourage a second flush of flowers. Perennial.Ĭreeping thyme thrives in dry, sunny locations.
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