What is the best ground cover plant?

Question

I just bough a new house and I need to put in some ground cover plants that are year around and low maintenance. I have no idea what to look for and I want something pretty. If you can please suggest something I would appreciate it. Thanks

Answer 1

There are a number of fine books on ground covers that you can find at your local library. Just look up "subject" in the library computer and then type in "ground covers" or "Gardening- Ground covers". Also, the Sunset Western Garden Guide has a section of advice on ground cover plants.

There are a number of factors you need to determine before you narrow in on the plants that you will find appropriate for  your  situation.

Included on this list will be sun/shade  exposure, soil type, moisture availablity, necessary hardiness,  height desired, evergreen or deciduous, and do you want this plant to bloom?  You also will benefit greatly from a clear definition of your term "low maintenance".

Answer 2

Mexican heather is a great plant..depending on your zone, it stays green year round and blooms nice little lavender flowers..

http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/im...

http://www.floridata.com/ref/C/cuph_hys....

Answer 3

Depends on the zone you're in....here in Illinois, I grow sedum spirit along with other low growing sedum and they cover well, but require a sunny spot.  Also, bishops weed spreads quickly and will grow just about anywhere and reaches 1 to 11/2 ft tall.  You might like the variegated hoyttunia or chamelean plant which grows about the same height with a green/white/burgundy leaf.  This is a rapid spreader too and I have it in semi shade.  Ajuga  and lamium [white nancy]are just a few ground covers to consider.  the nice thing???????????they are all perennials.