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by Answerbag Staff on December 4th, 2009

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How do you define groundcovers?

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  • by S. Johnson on December 4th, 2009

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    Groundcovers (also, ground covers) are plants that cover the soil. The University of Illinois extension points out that turfgrass is the most common groundcover planted in outdoor spaces, but usually groundcover refers to growth other than grass.

    Size

    Groundcovers don't have to be the size of mown grass. They are about 1 inch to 4 feet tall.

    Importance

    Groundcover prevents erosion. Indeed, that has been its traditional use. Nongrass groundcovers are used in places that have difficulty growing grass or on slopes.

    Uses

    Besides being used to prevent erosion, groundcovers are planted to prevent weeds, make barriers, act as guides and transitions and create a sense of distinct areas in a landscape, among other things.

    Types

    Some groundcovers are evergreens, others die back over the winter. Those that die back can be used where winter snow will cover ground during winter.

    Plants

    Among plants used as groundcover, besides grass, ivy is a common choice. Other choices are phlox, Japanese spurge, moss, thyme, mint and many others.

    Warning

    Groundcover is generally planted for easy maintenance; choosing plants that can propagate themselves, are hardy and can thrive in difficult conditions. Such plants, however, can become invasive and difficult to get rid of.

    Source:

    West Virginia University Extension Service: Ground Covers

    Universiy of Illinois Extension: From the Ground Up

    Virginia Cooperative Extension: Selecting Landscape Plants: Ground Covers

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