Fast-spreading drought-tolerant ground covers are a practical solution for gardeners looking to conserve water and reduce maintenance while still enjoying a lush landscape. These hardy plants can thrive in dry conditions, making them ideal for areas prone to drought. Below, we explore some of the best options for drought-resistant ground covers, offering insights into their benefits and how to incorporate them into your garden.
What Are the Best Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers?
1. Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum is a versatile and low-maintenance ground cover that comes in various colors and textures. These succulents store water in their leaves, making them exceptionally drought-tolerant. They thrive in poor soil and full sun, spreading quickly to create a dense mat.
- Ideal Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil
- Benefits: Low maintenance, attracts pollinators
- Example Varieties: Sedum ‘Dragon’s Blood’, Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’
2. Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme is an aromatic herb that forms a dense carpet of tiny, fragrant leaves. It blooms with small pink or purple flowers in summer, adding color and attracting bees. This ground cover thrives in dry, sunny spots and is often used between stepping stones.
- Ideal Conditions: Full sun, sandy soil
- Benefits: Fragrant, edible leaves, attracts pollinators
- Example Varieties: Thymus serpyllum, Thymus praecox
3. Liriope (Lilyturf)
Liriope is a hardy ground cover known for its grass-like foliage and purple flower spikes. It is tolerant of drought once established and can grow in a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
- Ideal Conditions: Partial shade to full sun, well-drained soil
- Benefits: Evergreen foliage, erosion control
- Example Varieties: Liriope muscari, Liriope spicata
4. Ice Plant
The ice plant is a succulent ground cover that features vibrant, daisy-like flowers. Its fleshy leaves help it retain moisture, making it highly drought-resistant. It is perfect for rock gardens or sunny slopes.
- Ideal Conditions: Full sun, sandy or rocky soil
- Benefits: Bright flowers, attracts butterflies
- Example Varieties: Delosperma cooperi, Delosperma nubigenum
5. Lamb’s Ear
Lamb’s ear is known for its soft, silvery leaves that create a unique texture in the garden. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in poor soil, making it an excellent choice for low-water landscapes.
- Ideal Conditions: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
- Benefits: Soft texture, deer-resistant
- Example Varieties: Stachys byzantina, Stachys ‘Silver Carpet’
Why Choose Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers?
Drought-tolerant ground covers offer several benefits beyond water conservation. They reduce the need for mowing and fertilizing, providing a sustainable landscaping solution. These plants can also prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and improve biodiversity by attracting beneficial insects.
How to Plant and Maintain Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers
Planting Tips
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained. Amend with sand or gravel if necessary.
- Spacing: Plant ground covers 12-18 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Maintenance Tips
- Pruning: Trim back any overgrown areas to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to prevent competition for resources.
- Fertilization: Use a slow-release fertilizer sparingly, as most drought-tolerant plants thrive in low-nutrient conditions.
Comparison Table: Best Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers
| Feature | Sedum | Creeping Thyme | Liriope | Ice Plant | Lamb’s Ear |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Requirement | Full Sun | Full Sun | Partial Shade | Full Sun | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained | Sandy | Well-drained | Sandy/Rocky | Well-drained |
| Flower Color | Various | Pink/Purple | Purple | Bright Colors | Purple |
| Maintenance Level | Low | Low | Low | Low | Low |
| Wildlife Attraction | Pollinators | Pollinators | Minimal | Butterflies | Minimal |
People Also Ask
What Is the Fastest-Growing Ground Cover?
Sedum and creeping thyme are among the fastest-growing ground covers. They quickly spread to form dense mats, ideal for covering large areas efficiently.
Are Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers Evergreen?
Many drought-tolerant ground covers, such as liriope and lamb’s ear, are evergreen, providing year-round interest and coverage in the garden.
How Do I Choose the Right Ground Cover for My Garden?
Consider your garden’s sun exposure, soil type, and desired aesthetic. For sunny, dry areas, succulents like sedum and ice plant are ideal. For partial shade, liriope is a great choice.
Can Ground Covers Replace a Lawn?
Yes, drought-tolerant ground covers can replace traditional lawns, reducing water usage and maintenance needs. They offer a sustainable alternative for eco-friendly landscaping.
What Are Some Low-Maintenance Ground Covers for Slopes?
Ice plant and creeping thyme are excellent choices for slopes, as they help prevent erosion and require minimal upkeep.
In conclusion, incorporating drought-tolerant ground covers into your garden can provide numerous environmental and aesthetic benefits. Whether you’re looking to reduce water usage, minimize maintenance, or enhance biodiversity, these resilient plants are a valuable addition to any landscape. Consider your specific garden conditions and preferences when selecting the best ground cover for your needs.