Did you know that growing creeping plants can reduce soil erosion by up to 80%? These resilient green wonders not only provide a beautiful tapestry of color to your garden but also serve vital ecological functions. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your landscaping journey, understanding how to incorporate these versatile plants into your designs is essential. From lush ground cover that blankets bare soil to vertical gardens that transform walls into living art, the strategic use of creeping plants can elevate your outdoor space while enhancing its sustainability.
As you delve into this article, you’ll discover a treasure trove of practical insights and creative ideas on designing landscapes with creeping plants. We will explore how to select the right varieties for ground cover, craft stunning vertical gardens that defy gravity, and create charming borders that frame your outdoor oasis. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to embrace the enchanting world of growing creeping plants, turning your landscape into a vibrant and eco-friendly haven. So, let’s dig in and uncover the secrets to a flourishing garden!
Table of Contents
Understanding Creeping Plants
What Are Creeping Plants?
Creeping plants, also known as ground-hugging or spreading plants, are a diverse group of flora characterized by their ability to grow horizontally along the ground or climb up structures. These plants typically have flexible stems that allow them to spread outwards, covering large areas effectively. Their growth habit not only creates a lush, green carpet but also serves various functional roles in landscape design, particularly in New Zealand’s unique environment.
Creeping plants are essential for sustainable landscaping. They play a vital role in erosion control by stabilizing soil and preventing runoff, making them an excellent choice for sloped areas. Additionally, their dense foliage can suppress weeds, reducing the need for chemical herbicides and contributing to a healthier ecosystem. Whether used in gardens, parks, or urban settings, creeping plants enhance aesthetics while providing practical benefits.
Benefits of Using Creeping Plants in Your Landscape
Incorporating creeping plants into your landscape design offers numerous advantages, particularly in New Zealand, where the climate can vary significantly. Here are some key benefits:
1. Environmental Benefits: Creeping plants contribute to soil stability, helping to prevent erosion and maintain the integrity of your garden beds. Their extensive root systems anchor the soil, while their foliage provides shade, reducing soil temperature and moisture loss. Furthermore, by suppressing weeds, they minimize competition for nutrients and water, allowing your desired plants to thrive.
2. Low Maintenance Landscaping: One of the most appealing aspects of creeping plants is their low maintenance requirements. Once established, many varieties require minimal care, making them an ideal choice for busy gardeners. They often need less watering than traditional garden beds, especially drought-tolerant species, and can thrive in a range of soil types. This feature not only saves time but also reduces water usage, making them environmentally friendly.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Creeping plants offer a unique visual charm, contributing to the overall beauty of your garden. Their ability to create a lush, green carpet can enhance the visual appeal of pathways, borders, and garden beds. Additionally, many creeping plants produce vibrant flowers or foliage that can add color and texture to your landscape, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
4. Economic Advantages: Using creeping plants can lead to cost-effective landscaping solutions. Their ability to cover ground quickly means fewer plants are needed to achieve a full look, reducing initial planting costs. Their low maintenance needs also mean less expenditure on water, fertilizers, and pest control in the long run.
Suitable Creeping Plants for New Zealand Gardens
When selecting creeping plants for your New Zealand garden, it’s essential to consider both native and non-native varieties that thrive in the local climate. Here are some excellent options to consider:
1. Muehlenbeckia: This hardy native plant is known for its ability to withstand a variety of soil conditions and climates. Muehlenbeckia can be used as a ground cover or trained to climb trellises and fences. Its small, round leaves create a dense mat that effectively suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.
2. Dichondra repens: Also known as kidney weed, Dichondra is a low-growing plant that features soft, round leaves. It is particularly well-suited for shaded areas and can tolerate foot traffic, making it a great choice for lawns or pathways. Its low growth habit and lush green color create an appealing carpet effect.
3. Ajuga: This colorful creeping plant is known for its vibrant foliage and stunning blue flower spikes. Ajuga thrives in a variety of conditions, including partial shade, and is excellent for filling in gaps in borders or as a ground cover. Its ability to spread quickly makes it a popular choice for low maintenance landscaping.
4. Creeping Thyme: An aromatic herb, creeping thyme is not only functional but also visually appealing. It produces small purple flowers that attract pollinators and can tolerate drought once established. This plant is perfect for sunny areas and can be used to create fragrant pathways in your garden.
5. Creeping Phlox: Ideal for sunny spots, creeping phlox is celebrated for its vibrant flowers that bloom in spring. This plant creates a stunning display of color and can be used effectively in borders or as a ground cover. Its ability to spread and fill in spaces makes it a favorite among gardeners.
6. Lobelia: Known for its cascading growth habit, lobelia is perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant in borders. Its striking blue flowers provide a beautiful contrast against green foliage. Lobelia thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade, making it versatile for various garden settings.
Incorporating these creeping plants into your landscape design not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also promotes a sustainable and low-maintenance gardening approach. By selecting the right plants suited for your specific conditions, you can create a thriving outdoor space that requires minimal upkeep while providing maximum enjoyment.
As you explore the world of creeping plants, consider how they can transform your garden into a vibrant oasis. Whether you aim to create lush ground cover, stunning vertical gardens, or attractive borders, the right creeping plants can help you achieve your landscaping goals efficiently and beautifully.
Designing with Creeping Plants for Ground Cover
What is Ground Cover?
Ground cover plants are low-growing species that spread horizontally across the soil, creating a lush, green carpet that can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden. These plants serve multiple purposes in landscape design, from filling empty spaces to providing a natural solution for soil erosion. In New Zealand, where diverse climates and unique ecosystems exist, ground cover plants can be a vital part of sustainable gardening practices. They not only beautify the landscape but also create habitats for wildlife, improve soil health, and reduce the need for chemical herbicides.
Advantages of Ground Cover Plants
Incorporating ground cover plants into your landscape design offers numerous benefits. Here are some key advantages:
- Enhancing Biodiversity: Ground cover plants can attract beneficial insects and pollinators, contributing to a healthy ecosystem. By planting a variety of creeping species, you can create a vibrant environment that supports local wildlife.
- Reducing Water Usage: Many creeping plants are drought-tolerant, which means they require less water than traditional lawn grasses. This feature makes them an excellent choice for sustainable gardening, especially in regions of New Zealand that experience dry spells.
- Preventing Soil Erosion: The dense root systems of ground cover plants help stabilize the soil, preventing erosion on slopes and in areas prone to runoff. This is particularly important in New Zealand, where heavy rainfall can lead to significant soil loss.
- Low Maintenance Landscaping: Once established, most creeping plants require minimal maintenance. They can reduce the need for mowing, edging, and frequent watering, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners who desire an attractive landscape without the constant upkeep.
Best Creeping Plants for Ground Cover in New Zealand
When selecting ground cover plants for your New Zealand garden, consider the following options that thrive in local conditions:
- Muehlenbeckia: Known for its resilience, Muehlenbeckia is a native creeping plant that can tolerate a variety of soil types and conditions. Its wiry stems and small leaves create a dense mat that is excellent for erosion control and can also handle dry spells.
- Dichondra repens: This low-growing plant features soft, round leaves and forms a lush, green carpet that is perfect for shaded areas. Dichondra repens is also known for its low growth habit, making it an excellent choice for filling in gaps between stepping stones or creating a soft lawn alternative.
- Thyme: Aromatic and hardy, thyme is not only a culinary herb but also a fantastic ground cover. It thrives in sunny locations and can withstand periods of drought. Its fragrant foliage and lovely flowers attract pollinators, adding to the biodiversity of your garden.
- Creeping Phlox: This vibrant flowering plant adds a splash of color to your landscape. Creeping phlox is perfect for rock gardens or as a border plant and thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.
- Ajuga: Known for its striking foliage and blue flower spikes, Ajuga is a versatile ground cover that can thrive in both sun and shade. It spreads quickly, making it an effective choice for filling in bare spots in your garden.
Designing Your Ground Cover Layout
When designing your ground cover layout, consider the following tips for an effective and visually appealing installation:
- Selecting the Right Areas: Identify areas in your garden that would benefit from ground cover. Look for spots that are difficult to maintain, such as slopes, under trees, or between pavers. These areas can be transformed into beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes.
- Layering Plants for Visual Interest: To create depth and texture, consider layering different types of ground cover plants. Combine taller species with shorter ones to create a dynamic look. For example, you could place Muehlenbeckia at the back of a border, with Dichondra repens in the foreground.
- Creating Pathways and Borders: Ground cover plants can be used to define pathways and borders in your garden. Use them to create a natural edge along walkways or to soften the appearance of hardscapes. Thyme, for instance, can be planted between stepping stones to create a fragrant, inviting path.
- Filler Spaces: Use creeping plants to fill in gaps between larger plants and shrubs. This not only enhances the overall look of your garden but also reduces weed growth by shading the soil.
Maintenance Tips for Ground Covers
While ground cover plants are generally low maintenance, some care is still required to keep them healthy and thriving:
- Watering: Newly planted ground covers will need regular watering until established. Once they’re rooted, many creeping plants can tolerate dry conditions. However, during prolonged dry spells, supplemental watering may be necessary.
- Fertilizing: Most ground cover plants benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring. Organic fertilizers are recommended, as they improve soil health and promote sustainable gardening practices.
- Pruning: Some creeping plants may spread aggressively and require occasional pruning to maintain their shape and prevent them from overtaking other plants. Regularly check your ground cover and trim back any excess growth as needed.
- Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids or slugs. Many creeping plants are resilient and can withstand minor infestations, but if you notice significant damage, consider using organic pest control methods to protect your garden.
- Disease Prevention: Watch for signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or wilting. Providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent fungal issues. If disease does occur, remove affected plants promptly to prevent spread.
Incorporating creeping plants into your garden design for ground cover not only enhances the visual appeal of your landscape but also promotes sustainability and biodiversity. By choosing the right plants and following best practices for layout and maintenance, you can create a low-maintenance, thriving garden that reflects the beauty of New Zealand’s unique environment. Whether you’re looking to fill empty spaces, prevent erosion, or simply reduce the time spent on yard work, growing creeping plants is a fantastic solution.
Vertical Gardens with Creeping Plants
Introduction to Vertical Gardening
Vertical gardening is an innovative way to bring greenery into urban and suburban environments, transforming walls, fences, and other vertical surfaces into lush, vibrant displays. This gardening technique is particularly beneficial for those with limited space, allowing you to maximize your garden’s potential without sacrificing ground area. In New Zealand, where outdoor space can often be at a premium, vertical gardens offer a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution. By incorporating creeping plants into your vertical garden, you can create a stunning visual impact while also enjoying the numerous benefits these plants provide.
Advantages of Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens provide a myriad of advantages that make them an appealing choice for gardeners in New Zealand. One of the primary benefits is space maximization. In urban settings where ground space is limited, utilizing vertical surfaces allows for a greater variety of plants and flowers without occupying precious floor space. Additionally, vertical gardens can improve air quality by filtering pollutants and producing oxygen, contributing to a healthier environment.
Another significant advantage is the aesthetic appeal of vertical gardens. They can serve as living art installations, adding character and charm to any outdoor area. Furthermore, creeping plants often require less maintenance than traditional garden beds, making them an excellent choice for those pursuing low maintenance landscaping solutions. With the right selection of plants and proper care, vertical gardens can thrive with minimal effort, providing beauty and enjoyment for years to come.
Best Creeping Plants for Vertical Gardens in New Zealand
When designing a vertical garden, choosing the right creeping plants is crucial for ensuring success. Here are some of the best options for New Zealand gardens:
- Hoya (Hoya spp.): Known for its waxy leaves and fragrant flowers, Hoya is an excellent choice for vertical gardens. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-draining soil. This plant is relatively low maintenance and can tolerate dry conditions, making it perfect for busy gardeners.
- Passionflower (Passiflora spp.): With its striking blooms and rapid growth, Passionflower is a stunning addition to any vertical garden. It requires a sturdy support structure to climb and thrives in sunny locations. Regular watering and occasional fertilization will keep this plant healthy and vibrant.
- Climbing Fig (Ficus pumila): This hardy plant is perfect for covering walls and trellises. Its small, heart-shaped leaves create a lush green backdrop, and it can thrive in various light conditions. Climbing Fig is also known for its ability to tolerate less-than-ideal growing conditions, making it an excellent choice for low maintenance landscaping.
- Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia): This versatile plant features vibrant yellow-green foliage that turns gold in the fall. Creeping Jenny can be used as a trailing plant in vertical gardens and thrives in both full sun and partial shade. It requires moderate watering and is relatively pest-resistant.
- Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas): Known for its colorful foliage, Sweet Potato Vine adds a pop of color to vertical gardens. It grows rapidly and can cascade beautifully over the edges of containers or trellises. This plant thrives in warm weather and requires regular watering to maintain its vibrant appearance.
Designing Your Vertical Garden
Creating a successful vertical garden involves careful planning and design. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Select the Right Structure: Choose a sturdy support structure that can accommodate the growth of your chosen creeping plants. Options include trellises, fences, or even repurposed pallets. Ensure that the structure is securely anchored and can withstand the weight of the plants as they grow.
- Consider Sunlight and Microclimates: Before planting, assess the amount of sunlight each area receives throughout the day. Some plants thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Understanding the microclimates in your garden will help you select the best locations for your creeping plants.
- Create a Cohesive Design: Aim for a harmonious design that complements your home’s architecture and existing landscape. Consider the color, texture, and height of the plants you choose. Mixing different varieties of creeping plants can create visual interest and depth in your vertical garden.
- Layering for Impact: When planting, consider layering your plants to create a fuller, more dynamic look. Place taller plants at the back or top of the structure and shorter varieties in front. This layering effect not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for better light access for all plants.
- Incorporate Additional Features: To enhance the beauty of your vertical garden, consider adding decorative elements such as garden sculptures, hanging pots, or fairy lights. These features can create a unique focal point and add personality to your garden space.
Maintenance and Care for Vertical Gardens
While vertical gardens can be low maintenance, they still require regular care to ensure their health and beauty. Here are some essential maintenance tips:
- Watering Techniques: Vertical gardens may dry out faster than traditional garden beds due to their elevation and exposure to wind. Implement a consistent watering routine, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not soggy. Consider using a drip irrigation system for efficient watering.
- Nutrient Requirements: Fertilizing your vertical garden is essential for promoting healthy growth. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. Depending on the plant species, you may also want to supplement with organic fertilizers to enhance soil health.
- Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your plants and treat infestations promptly with eco-friendly pest control methods. Encouraging beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, can also help manage pest populations.
- Pruning and Training: As your plants grow, regular pruning may be necessary to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth. Train the plants to climb the support structure by gently guiding them and securing them with soft ties if needed.
- Seasonal Care: Adjust your care routine based on the seasons. In winter, ensure your plants are protected from frost, while in summer, monitor for increased watering needs. Seasonal adjustments will help your creeping plants thrive throughout the year.
Incorporating creeping plants into your vertical gardens not only maximizes space but also enhances the overall aesthetics of your outdoor area. With the right selection of plants and proper care, you can create a stunning vertical garden that adds beauty and greenery to your New Zealand landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, vertical gardening offers a rewarding way to enjoy the benefits of growing creeping plants while embracing the principles of low maintenance landscaping.
Creating Borders with Creeping Plants
Importance of Borders in Landscape Design
Borders play a crucial role in landscape design by defining spaces, enhancing visual appeal, and providing structure to your garden. They can delineate pathways, separate different garden areas, and create a sense of order amidst the natural chaos of plant life. In New Zealand, where gardens can be lush and vibrant, borders made from creeping plants not only add beauty but also serve practical purposes such as preventing soil erosion and suppressing weeds. By integrating creeping plants into your borders, you can achieve a seamless transition between different garden zones while also benefiting from their low maintenance landscaping qualities.
Best Creeping Plants for Borders in New Zealand
When selecting creeping plants for borders, consider those that offer a mix of color, texture, and height. Here are some excellent options for New Zealand gardens:
- Lobelia: Known for its stunning blue and purple flowers, Lobelia is an excellent choice for borders. Its low-growing habit and vibrant blooms create a striking contrast against other plants, making it a popular choice for edging.
- Ajuga: This hardy creeping plant features attractive foliage that can range from deep green to burgundy, depending on the variety. Ajuga produces spikes of blue flowers in spring, adding seasonal interest to your borders. Its ability to thrive in various soil conditions makes it a versatile option.
- Creeping Phlox: With its vibrant pink, purple, and white flowers, Creeping Phlox brings a splash of color to any border. This plant is particularly effective in rock gardens or along pathways, providing a lush carpet of blooms that attract pollinators.
- Thyme: Not only does Thyme provide culinary benefits, but its low-growing nature and aromatic foliage make it a delightful addition to borders. It can withstand foot traffic, making it ideal for border areas that may be walked on.
Choosing the right creeping plants for your borders can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden while ensuring that maintenance remains manageable. These plants are typically hardy and require minimal care once established, aligning perfectly with the principles of low maintenance landscaping.
Designing Border Gardens
Creating an attractive border garden with creeping plants involves thoughtful planning and design. Here are some tips to help you arrange your creeping plants for maximum visual impact:
1. Layering for Depth: When designing your borders, consider layering plants of varying heights. Taller plants should be placed at the back of the border, while shorter creeping plants can be positioned in front. This creates depth and ensures that all plants receive adequate sunlight.
2. Color Coordination: Choose creeping plants that complement each other in terms of color. For example, pairing the deep purple of Ajuga with the vibrant pink of Creeping Phlox can create a stunning contrast. Additionally, consider seasonal changes; select plants that bloom at different times to maintain interest throughout the year.
3. Incorporating Other Elements: Borders can be enhanced by combining creeping plants with other garden elements such as sculptures, decorative stones, or fences. For instance, placing a decorative trellis alongside your border can provide vertical interest and support climbing plants, adding another layer of complexity to your design.
4. Pathway Integration: If your border runs alongside a pathway, consider using creeping plants that can withstand foot traffic, such as Thyme. This not only creates a beautiful edge but also allows for a fragrant experience as you walk by.
5. Seasonal Changes: Plan for seasonal changes by incorporating a variety of plants that offer different textures and colors throughout the year. This ensures that your borders remain visually appealing, regardless of the season.
By thoughtfully designing your border gardens with creeping plants, you can create a stunning visual framework for your landscape that enhances its overall beauty while requiring minimal upkeep.
Maintenance of Borders
While creeping plants are generally low maintenance, some care is still necessary to keep your borders looking their best. Here are some guidelines for maintaining your creeping plant borders:
1. Regular Watering: Newly planted creeping plants will require regular watering until they establish a strong root system. After that, many creeping plants are drought-tolerant, but during prolonged dry spells, it’s essential to provide supplemental watering.
2. Weed Control: Keep your borders free from weeds, which can compete with your creeping plants for nutrients and water. Regularly check for weeds and remove them by hand or use mulch to suppress their growth.
3. Pruning and Deadheading: Some creeping plants may benefit from occasional pruning or deadheading to encourage new growth and maintain their shape. This is especially true for flowering varieties like Lobelia and Phlox, which can produce more blooms when deadheaded regularly.
4. Fertilization: While many creeping plants are low maintenance, a light application of organic fertilizer in spring can promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
5. Seasonal Updates: Consider seasonal updates to your borders by rotating plants or adding new varieties to keep the design fresh. This not only enhances visual interest but also allows you to experiment with different creeping plants.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your creeping plant borders remain healthy and vibrant, contributing to the overall beauty of your New Zealand garden.
In conclusion, designing borders with creeping plants offers a fantastic way to enhance the visual appeal of your landscape while benefiting from the low maintenance landscaping qualities these plants provide. By carefully selecting the right plants, designing with intention, and maintaining your borders, you can create a stunning garden space that thrives in New Zealand’s unique climate. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, incorporating creeping plants into your borders will undoubtedly transform your outdoor space into a lush and inviting haven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are creeping plants and why are they used in landscaping?
Creeping plants, also known as ground covers, are low-growing plants that spread horizontally across the ground. They are commonly used in landscaping due to their ability to suppress weeds, reduce soil erosion, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens. These plants can fill in gaps in flower beds, create lush green carpets, and add texture to landscapes. Their versatility makes them ideal for various design applications, including borders, pathways, and vertical gardens.
How do I choose the right creeping plants for my landscape?
When selecting creeping plants, consider factors such as climate, soil type, and sunlight exposure. Different species thrive in varying conditions, so it’s essential to choose plants that are well-suited to your specific environment. Additionally, think about the desired look and purpose—some creeping plants are more decorative, while others may serve functional roles, such as erosion control or attracting pollinators. Researching native species can also lead to a more sustainable landscape design.
Can creeping plants be used in vertical gardens?
Yes, creeping plants can be effectively used in vertical gardens. Their natural tendency to climb or spread makes them ideal for creating lush green walls or enhancing vertical spaces. When designing a vertical garden, consider using trellises, wall-mounted planters, or specially designed vertical gardening systems that allow creeping plants to flourish. Ensure that the plants selected are suitable for vertical growth and will receive adequate light and moisture.
What are the maintenance requirements for creeping plants?
Creeping plants generally have low maintenance requirements, but some care is necessary to ensure they thrive. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells, alongside seasonal fertilization to promote healthy growth. Pruning may be needed to control their spread and maintain a tidy appearance. Additionally, monitor for pests and diseases, as some creeping plants can be susceptible to specific issues. Overall, their resilience often reduces the amount of time spent on maintenance.
How can I use creeping plants as borders in my garden?
Creeping plants make excellent borders in gardens by creating a seamless transition between different areas. To use them effectively, choose species that naturally form dense mats or have a defined growth habit. Plant them along pathways, flower beds, or the perimeter of your garden to define spaces and add depth. Consider the height and color of the plants to complement the surrounding landscape, and make sure to space them adequately for optimal growth.
Are creeping plants suitable for shaded areas?
Many creeping plants are well-suited for shaded areas, making them an excellent choice for gardens with limited sunlight. Species such as creeping thyme, ajuga, and various ferns thrive in partial to full shade. When selecting plants for shaded spots, look for varieties known for their shade tolerance, and consider the moisture levels in the area, as shaded spots can sometimes retain more moisture than sunny locations.
What are the benefits of using creeping plants for erosion control?
Creeping plants are highly effective for erosion control due to their extensive root systems that help bind soil together. They provide ground cover that reduces the impact of rainfall and runoff, preventing soil from washing away. By using creeping plants on slopes or along waterways, you can create a natural barrier that stabilizes the soil and promotes healthy growth. This not only protects the landscape but also enhances the ecological health of the area.
How do I propagate creeping plants?
Propagating creeping plants can be done through several methods, including division, cuttings, and layering. Division involves carefully separating established clumps and replanting sections in new areas. For cuttings, take healthy stems or sections of the plant, allow them to root in water or soil, and then transplant them. Layering involves bending a stem to the ground, covering it lightly with soil, and allowing it to root before severing from the parent plant. Each method can effectively increase your stock of creeping plants for landscaping projects.
References
- My Garden – A resource for garden enthusiasts, featuring articles on creeping plants and landscape design.
- Gardening Know How: Ground Cover Plants – An informative guide on various types of ground cover plants, their uses, and care tips.
- Gardener’s World: Ground Cover Plants – A selection of ground cover plants suitable for different garden styles and conditions.
- The Spruce: Vertical Gardening – Detailed insights into vertical gardening techniques and plant suggestions.
- Better Homes & Gardens: Vertical Gardens – Ideas and tips for creating stunning vertical gardens using creeping plants.
- Houzz: Creative Uses for Ground Cover Plants – Innovative approaches to incorporating ground cover plants into landscape design.
- Purdue Extension: Ground Covers for the Home Landscape – A comprehensive PDF guide on selecting and using ground covers effectively in home landscapes.