Weeds are the bane of every gardener’s existence, constantly vying for space, nutrients, and water. But what if you could naturally keep them at bay without relying on harsh chemicals or constant weeding? Enter ground covers — low-growing plants that spread quickly, creating dense mats that choke out unwanted intruders.
The right ground cover not only suppresses weeds but also improves soil health, retains moisture, and adds beautiful texture to your garden beds and pathways. These hardy plants thrive in various conditions, from sunny spots to shady corners, making them versatile allies in your fight against weeds.
In this article, discover 16 effective ground covers that naturally outcompete weeds, helping you maintain a lush, low-maintenance garden. Whether you’re looking to fill bare spots or enhance your landscape’s beauty, these plants offer a sustainable and attractive solution.
Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme is a fragrant delight that thrives in sunny spots. Known for its aromatic leaves and vibrant purple blooms, this hardy plant forms a dense mat that deters weeds. It’s drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it perfect for rock gardens or walkways. Its ability to attract pollinators adds another layer of charm to this versatile ground cover. Suitable for various climates, creeping thyme can transform barren patches into thriving ecosystems. Consider planting it near stepping stones for an aromatic experience with every step.
Sweet Woodruff
Sweet Woodruff is a woodland wonder that adds elegance to shaded areas. Its delicate white flowers contrast beautifully with the lush green leaves, creating a serene atmosphere. This perennial thrives in moist, well-drained soil and multiplies quickly, effectively preventing weeds. Often used in herbal teas, its subtle fragrance is an added bonus. Whether under trees or in shaded borders, sweet woodruff offers a delightful touch to any garden landscape.
Sedum
Sedum is the succulent solution for sun-drenched spaces. With its fleshy leaves and vibrant hues, sedum adds texture and color to any garden. This drought-resistant plant thrives in poor soil and requires minimal care. Its creeping nature helps it spread quickly, smothering weeds with ease. Ideal for rock gardens or containers, sedum is a versatile choice for those looking to add a splash of color and resilience to their landscape.
Ajuga
Ajuga, with its stunning blue flower spikes, is a showstopper in any garden. This fast-growing ground cover thrives in partial shade and is perfect for filling in gaps. Its dense foliage competes fiercely with weeds and adds a splash of color to shaded areas. Ajuga’s hardy nature makes it suitable for various climates, and its low-growing habit means less maintenance for you. Plant it along borders for a colorful and effective weed barrier.
Lilyturf
Lilyturf offers an elegant solution for weed control with its grass-like leaves and striking purple flower spikes. This ground cover is ideal for borders and pathways, adding a touch of sophistication to any landscape. Its ability to thrive in a range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, makes it a versatile choice. Known for its low-maintenance nature, lilyturf is a favorite among gardeners seeking a reliable ground cover that effortlessly suppresses weeds.
Pachysandra
Pachysandra is the go-to ground cover for shaded woodland areas. Its glossy green leaves create a dense mat that effectively prevents weed growth. This evergreen perennial thrives in rich, well-drained soil and requires little maintenance once established. Its ability to form a thick carpet makes it ideal for large areas under trees or along shaded pathways. Pachysandra’s resilience and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscape’s texture and depth.
Vinca Minor
Vinca Minor, also known as periwinkle, is a charming ground cover that thrives in both sun and shade. Its periwinkle blue flowers and glossy leaves create a visually appealing carpet that suppresses weeds effectively. This hardy plant spreads quickly, making it ideal for covering large areas or slopes. Vinca Minor’s adaptability and low-maintenance nature make it a favorite for those seeking a hassle-free solution to weed problems without sacrificing beauty.
Ice Plant
The Ice Plant brings a burst of color to dry, rocky areas with its vibrant blooms. Known for its succulent leaves and dazzling flowers, it thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. This drought-tolerant ground cover quickly forms a dense mat, outcompeting weeds with ease. Perfect for slopes or coastal gardens, the Ice Plant adds a striking visual contrast to any landscape. Its ability to attract pollinators while requiring minimal care makes it a prized addition to water-wise gardens.
Mondo Grass
Mondo Grass offers a sophisticated touch with its dark green, grass-like foliage. Ideal for borders or pathway edges, it thrives in both sun and shade. This clumping ground cover spreads slowly, creating a neat and tidy appearance. Mondo Grass requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners. Its ability to suppress weeds while adding elegance to the garden makes it a versatile addition to landscapes seeking both form and function.
Clover
Clover isn’t just for lawns; it’s a powerhouse ground cover for gardens, too. Known for its nitrogen-fixing ability, clover enriches the soil while smothering weeds. Its small white flowers attract pollinators, adding life to the garden. This low-maintenance plant thrives in a variety of conditions and spreads quickly. Consider using clover in areas where grass struggles, as it provides a lush green carpet with less water and care. Its eco-friendly benefits make it a wise choice for sustainable gardening.
Heuchera
Heuchera, also known as coral bells, offers a splash of color with its vibrant foliage. Ideal for shady areas, it thrives in well-drained soil and adds depth to garden beds. This perennial forms a dense mat that effectively suppresses weeds. With a variety of leaf colors ranging from deep burgundy to bright lime, heuchera provides visual interest throughout the year. Its ability to attract hummingbirds adds another dimension to its charm, making it a favorite among gardeners seeking both beauty and function.
Japanese Spurge
Japanese Spurge is the ultimate shade-loving ground cover. With its glossy green leaves, it creates a lush carpet that thrives in low-light conditions. This evergreen perennial spreads quickly, effectively keeping weeds at bay. Ideal for underplanting in woodland gardens or shaded borders, Japanese Spurge requires minimal maintenance once established. Its ability to cover large areas with ease makes it a go-to choice for gardeners looking to add texture and greenery to shaded spots.
Creeping Jenny
Creeping Jenny is a vibrant addition to any garden with its golden-yellow foliage. Perfect for moist areas, it thrives along pond edges or in rain gardens. This low-growing ground cover forms a dense mat, choking out weeds effectively. Its ability to cascade over rocks or containers adds a dynamic element to landscapes. Creeping Jenny’s bright color and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of brightness to their outdoor spaces.
Bishop’s Weed
Bishop’s Weed is a striking choice for shaded areas, with its variegated green and white foliage. This fast-spreading ground cover thrives in various conditions, quickly forming a dense carpet that suppresses weeds. Its ability to brighten up dark corners makes it a versatile addition to any garden. While it’s known for its vigor, regular maintenance can keep it in check, allowing its unique beauty to shine without overwhelming other plants.
Wild Ginger
Wild Ginger brings a touch of elegance with its heart-shaped leaves and subtle flowers. This perennial ground cover thrives in shaded, woodland areas, forming a dense mat that outcompetes weeds. Known for its distinctive foliage, wild ginger adds texture and depth to garden beds. It’s an excellent choice for underplanting in naturalized landscapes, providing a lush carpet that’s both beautiful and functional.
Mazus
Mazus is a delightful choice for paths and borders with its charming purple flowers. This low-growing ground cover thrives in moist, well-drained soil, creating a dense mat that suppresses weeds. Its ability to withstand foot traffic makes it ideal for garden paths or between stepping stones. Mazus is a versatile plant that adds color and resilience to gardens, ensuring a beautiful and weed-free landscape.