Question
Hello:  I manage a small apt. complex, and it seems that all caretakers hate to water the garden.  I have a strip of garden, about 20 feet by 1 foot.  What colorful, low growing ground cover do you recommend that thrives with neglect, in the sun, and no-one waters.  I live in Whatcom County, i.e. North West Washington State.
Thanks,  Cynthia  
P.S.  During the winter. it freezes and rains.
Good luck!

Answer
Cynthia,
My first thought is anything in the Ivy family.Ivy can take any weather,no water,and just little trimming every now and then.It also is evergreen,which means it doesn't lose it's foliage in the winter. Their is an ivy that changes color in the fall to a beautiful red colr,Boston Ivy.You may want to look at these sources to see if it will grow well in your area: Wayside Gardens,Bluestone Perennials,White Flower Farm,Van Bourgondien,Burpee Seed Co.,Walter's Perennials,www.perennials.com

Another groundcover that comes to mind is Vinca minor. It is also an evergreen groundcover.It blooms in early spring with light violet colored blooms.It takes a few more plants to get started and a bit more watering to get started than ivy,but when it gets established it is an easy care,no water ground cover and does not need any water and very little trimming to keep neat. Look at the sources I gave you for further info on groundcovers.
Good Luck to you for wanting to beautify your surroundings!