Groundcovers for Weed Suppression on Virginia Sloped Yards

Site Challenges

Two-tiered backyard with sharp drop, full sun upper tier, hedges at back, no grass – only weeds. Virginia spans USDA Zones 6a-8b, so exact location matters for plant hardiness.

Recommended Groundcovers for Total Weed Blockage

Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea' (Golden Moneywort/Creeping Jenny)

• Dense, low-growing, low-maintenance
• Thrives in clay soil
• Bright lemon-yellow foliage in full sun
• Needs adequate summer moisture

White Phlox subulata

• Rapid spread in sunny areas
• 2-foot wide patches in rich soil
• Excellent weed suppression

Sedum 'Ruby Glow'

• Short, ruby-red flowers, tiny green/red leaves
• Low maintenance after establishment
• Critical first-season watering

Siberian Cypress (Russian Cypress)

• Low shrub (1 foot high), spreading
• Famous for slope performance
• First-season watering critical
• May need soil amendment to lower pH

Selection Resource

Bluestone Perennials (bluestoneperennials.com) offers advanced search by zone, light, and foot-traffic tolerance. Some groundcovers are walkable; others are not.

Personal Favorite

Sweet woodruff – fragrant, shade-tolerant, handles dry summers once established.