Can anyone suggest an easy, inexpensive but attractive ground cover for my yard? I have no green thumb! Help?

Question

I need help. I am no gardener. I currently have dirt and a few ugly shrubs in my front yard that is in definite need of some beautification. I don't have a lot of money or time to maintain. Can someone help me find an attractive ground cover that is fairly inexpensive and doesn't require a lot of baby sitting? Some instructions would be helpful too! :-)

Answer 1

Since you don't say where you live or what exposure the yard has, I recommend to go to a local nursery and look at the flats of ground cover there.  A local nursery will only sell plants that will perform well in your climate.  Read the tags on the flats and ask the nursery personnel any questions you may have about planting, fertilizing, watering, etc.  Choose something you like but that is not considered to be invasive in your area.

Answer 2

Consider pachysandra. This is an attractive, drought-tolerant ground cover that readily spreads. Ask friends and neighbors if they have it in their garden and, if so, ask if you can take some clippings. Simply take about 12 to 15 inches from the top of the plant, tie the stem in a very loose knot, and plant. Water it every day for 3 weeks. I've taken some (with permission) from a local park and it has established itself nicely and spread well. Most people with established pachysandra are more than willing to let you have some.

Hope this helps.