How To Plant Ground Cover Between Pavers

Savager Indie vor

3 min read

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23-11-2024

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Meta Description: Learn how to plant ground cover between pavers for a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape. This guide covers choosing the right plants, preparing the area, planting techniques, and ongoing care. Transform your patio or walkway with vibrant, weed-suppressing ground cover!

Choosing the Right Ground Cover

Selecting the appropriate ground cover is crucial for success. Consider these factors:

Sunlight Conditions

• Full Sun: Sedum, thyme, and creeping phlox thrive in full sun.
• Partial Shade: Bugleweed, ajuga, and pachysandra tolerate partial shade.
• Full Shade: Sweet woodruff, lilyturf, and vinca minor prefer shady areas.

Soil Type and Drainage

Different ground covers have varying soil preferences. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot. Amend heavy clay soils with compost to improve drainage.

Mature Size and Spread

Check the mature size and spread of your chosen ground cover. Choose plants appropriate for the space between your pavers. Overgrown plants can lift or damage pavers.

Maintenance Needs

Some ground covers require more maintenance than others. Consider your time commitment before selecting a plant. Low-maintenance options are ideal for busy lifestyles.

Weed Suppression

Ground cover can help suppress weeds, reducing the need for herbicides. Choose aggressive spreaders for effective weed control.

Preparing the Area for Planting

Before planting, prepare the area between your pavers:

Removing Existing Weeds

Thoroughly remove any existing weeds and their roots. This prevents competition for nutrients and water. Use a weeding tool or herbicide if needed.

Loosening the Soil

Loosen the soil between the pavers to a depth of several inches. This allows roots to penetrate easily. Use a hand cultivator or garden fork. Don't damage the pavers.

Adding Soil Amendments

Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. This enhances plant growth. Mix thoroughly.

Watering

Water the area thoroughly before planting to settle the soil. This ensures good soil-to-root contact.

Planting Ground Cover Between Pavers

Planting ground cover between pavers requires careful technique:

Spacing

Space plants according to their mature size and spread. Overcrowding can lead to poor growth. Follow plant tag recommendations.

Planting Method

Use a trowel to create small holes between the pavers. Gently place the plants in the holes. Fill in around the roots with soil.

Watering After Planting

Water gently after planting to settle the soil and help plants establish. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Ongoing Care for Ground Cover Between Pavers

Ongoing care ensures your ground cover thrives:

Watering

Water regularly, especially during dry periods. The frequency depends on the climate and plant type. Check soil moisture before watering.

Fertilizing

Fertilize sparingly, if at all. Over-fertilizing can promote excessive growth and overwhelm the space. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

Weeding

Remove any weeds that appear between the pavers. Regular weeding prevents weeds from competing with ground cover.

Pruning

Prune or trim overgrown plants as needed to maintain their shape and prevent them from interfering with pavers. Use hand pruners or shears.

What Type of Ground Cover Should I Choose?

This depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some popular choices include:

• Creeping Thyme: Drought-tolerant, fragrant, and attracts pollinators. Ideal for sunny areas.
• Sedum: Succulent ground cover that tolerates drought and full sun.
• Ajuga (Bugleweed): Spreads readily, tolerates shade, and has attractive foliage.
• Pachysandra: Evergreen ground cover that thrives in shade and needs minimal maintenance.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Poor Drainage: Amend the soil with compost to improve drainage. Avoid overwatering.
• Weed Infestation: Use a weeding tool to remove weeds regularly. Consider a pre-emergent herbicide.
• Overgrown Plants: Prune or thin out plants as needed to prevent overcrowding.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant ground cover between pavers and enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape for years to come. Remember to choose plants appropriate for your specific conditions and provide regular care.