Ground cover is an important component in any garden, especially in dry climates where water conservation is crucial. Ground cover not only helps retain moisture in the soil, but it also helps prevent weeds from taking over and provides a lush, low-maintenance blanket of greenery. In this article, we will explore 10 ground covers that are perfect for use in the dry garden.
Here are 10 ground cover plants that are perfect for the dry garden:
Sedum "Angelina"
This low-growing succulent has bright yellow leaves that turn orange in the fall. It thrives in USDA Zones 3 to 9 and is an excellent option for those seeking low-maintenance options.
Sedum "Blue Spruce"
This blue-grey sedum forms a tight mat of foliage and is an ideal ground cover for sunny areas. It's also a great option for gardeners who prefer low-growing plants that are easy to care for.
Achillea "Coronation Gold"
This yellow-flowering ground cover plant is perfect for sunny areas and is drought tolerant. It's also a great option for gardeners looking to add color to their garden.
Achillea "Saucy Seduction"
This pink-flowering achillea has fragrant blooms that attract pollinators. It's a great option for gardeners looking for a low-growing, drought-tolerant plant that adds color to their garden.
Senecio serpens
also known as blue chalk sticks, is a low-growing succulent ground cover that reaches about 6-12 inches in height. Its leaves are blue-grey in color with a fleshy texture and a unique trailing form that makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens, hanging baskets or as a ground cover in the dry garden. This plant thrives in USDA zones 9-11 and is known for its drought tolerance and low maintenance, making it an ideal addition to any xeriscape garden.
Geranium "Johnson's Blue"
This blue-flowering geranium is a great option for gardeners looking for a drought-tolerant ground cover that adds color to their garden.
Echeveria agavoides "Red Tip"
A succulent with rosettes of fleshy green leaves with red edges. Its unique coloring and low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens. This hardy plant adds texture and vibrant color when used as ground cover in garden borders.
Prostrate Woolly Grevillea (Grevillea lanigera)
is a low-growing, spreading shrub with gray-green, narrow, soft, and woolly foliage. It grows to 2 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The cream and pink flower clusters form at the stem tips in winter and spring, attracting butterflies. It grows best in full sun to light partial shade and well-draining, moist to dry soil, and can withstand short periods of drought and temperatures down to the low 20s F. The species is native to southeastern Australia and is named after its woolly leaves. 'Coastal Gem' is a particularly attractive variety with grayish-green, needle-like leaves and pinkish-red and cream flowers. It is a good groundcover for banks and dry gardens, and is not attractive to deer.
Dymondia
This ground cover plant is perfect for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance option that adds texture to their garden.
Woolly Thyme
This low-growing ground cover plant has soft, furry leaves and is perfect for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance option that adds texture to their garden.
Ground covers play a crucial role in the garden, helping to create a cohesive, finished look. These ten drought-tolerant ground covers will provide color, texture, and help to retain moisture in the soil. They are perfect for use in the dry garden, where water is scarce and planting choices must be well-considered. Use these plants to create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that will thrive in arid conditions.