Drought resistant ground cover zone 5 - suggestions?

Question

We are looking for some (preferably quick-germinating) drought resistant ground cover suitable for full sun in zone 5. We tried creeping thyme, but if it's taken, we can't find it! :( Does anyone have any suggestions about alternate ground covers, or some suggestions about how to get the thyme to take? We were thinking about re-seeding in the fall and using ground cover over winter to see if we can't kick start it for spring.

Any suggestions are welcome.

Also, if anyone has a picture of creeping thyme in its early post-germination stages, that would help us (maybe we just can't identify it... the only pictures I can find are of mature plants...)

thanks so much!

Answer 1

I'm in zone 5 too, and love white dutch clover.   If you're looking for groundcover as a grass alternative, it's worth a look.  It doesn't need watering after the first few weeks.  From seed, I had it sprouted and doing well within a couple weeks, plus it adds nitrogen into the soil.

Answer 2

I think ajuga is drought resistant as is periwinkle/vinca...pachysandra is but not so pretty a flower and ever to brief.