6 Creative Ways to Use Ground Covers in Your Garden

Ground covers do more than suppress weeds—they unify plantings, soften hardscape, and add texture. With varieties for sun, shade, wet, and dry conditions, there's a ground cover for every niche. Just research growth habits to avoid accidental invasiveness, and contain vigorous spreaders away from lawns.

1. Between Pavers

The classic use: ground covers fill joints between flagstone or modular pavers, creating a living mosaic. Choose foot-traffic-tolerant species like brass buttons (Leptinella squalida, zones 4–10), which forms a dense, evergreen, fern-like carpet.

2. Around Feature Trees

Instead of shrubs at the base of a specimen tree, carpet the ground with a low cover to reveal the trunk's architecture. Irish moss (Sagina subulata, zones 4–8) forms intriguing mounds dotted with tiny summer flowers.

3. In Rock Gardens

Arid, well-drained rock gardens suit specialized ground covers. Knawel cushion (Scleranthus biflorus, zones 9–11) slowly creeps over stones with a dense green mound. Ensure sharp drainage to prevent rot.

4. Under Conifers (Acidic, Dry Shade)

Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans, zones 3–10) thrives in the depleted, acidic soil under evergreens, forming a tight evergreen mat with spring flower spikes. Contain it—it can be aggressive.

5. Draping Over Walls and Hardscape

Baby's tears (Soleirolia soleirolii, zones 9–11) flourishes with minimal soil, cascading over brick walls and steps, lending an aged, softened patina. It bridges hard lines and soft planting effortlessly.

6. As Standalone Features

At Sissinghurst Castle, a stone bench was carpeted with chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), a medieval fragrant seat. Try Roman or English chamomile, or creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum, zones 4–8) for a scented surprise underfoot.