Low-Maintenance Groundcovers for Shady Yards

Tired of fighting fescue in bright shade? Embrace a "weed lawn" with plants that naturally form a dense, low carpet. Mondo grass sprigs (often free from dividing neighbors) create a grassy, evergreen mat. For variety, add ajuga, creeping Jenny, or 'Eco Lacquered Spider' green-and-gold. So-called weeds like wild violet, creeping Charlie, false strawberry, dichondra, and lawn pennywort also knit together quickly. Moss is another option if you can water occasionally. All tolerate shade but not heavy foot traffic—install stepping stones for access. Source plants from neighbors eager to thin their patches.