5. A woody evergreen that grows well in rocky or sandy soil, the 'Massachusetts' variety of the common bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi '_Massachusetts')_ doesn’t get over 12 inches in height, but it spreads as much as 6 feet. Its long, trailing stems have round chartreuse leaves and yellow flowers. Ground cover planted in sandy soil needs to be able to tolerate those conditions. This drought-tolerant ground cover for sun can be used for culinary purposes and usually grows to about six inches in height. When I was growing up, my Mom made good use of this in a shady spot in our backyard. If lush greenery and varying tones and textures of leaves is your desire, there are many suitable ground cover plants for zone 4. Creeping Rosemary: Also known as prostrate rosemary, this fast-growing evergreen does well in full sun and is a beautiful choice for cascading over rock or paving stone walls or for use in rock gardens. I feel the biggest thing you need to understand is rainwater penetrates topsoil and starts to head down into the ground. Ideal in deep shade where grass won’t grow in the garden or under trees. Consider ground cover plants for areas where watering and mowing are difficult, that require extra maintenance, or that are unsuitable for grass due to exposure. The low-lying ground cover is a popular option as a filler for rock gardens or as an accent above retaining walls. A whimsical cover that American ladies love Pink running pussy-toes Photo/Illustration: William Cullina. In addition to making your garden look good, it also helps it out. Thankfully, some species like having wet feet. Golden creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is a rugged ground cover hardy in zones 3-9. Got a spot or area in the landscape where the soil stays constantly wet and want to fill it with plants that like wet soil? *It thrives in wet areas. A vast majority of plants are unable to survive in such moist conditions. The soil cover is somewhat thin, perhaps only 3 feet deep at most. We've got you covered with the low growing and spreading plants listed below that prefer life on the soggy side. Ground Covers for Zone 4. What plant labels typically fail to mention is that, under the right growing conditions, 'Amethyst in Snow' makes a flowering ground cover that will spread nicely. Common Bearberry. Plant about 12 inches apart for a fast growing, 6-7 inch ground cover. Ground cover plants are good alternatives to turfgrasses in some locations. Although it grows in partial shade, for best color, grow it in full sun. Using ground cover plants for wet soil is a great way to fill in the parts that don’t drain well. 3.) Low growing ground hugging plants work nicely with taller woody perennials, ornamental grasses, and low growing shrubs. DEAR TIM: The lot where I’m building my new home is quite rocky. They provide a variety of textures and color, help reduce soil erosion, and can serve as a transition between turf areas and shrub or flower borders. Golden Creeping Jenny. Hardy, vigorous, easily grown…even in poor soil. For a basic look that will solve erosion issues, use one variety of ground cover and buy in bulk to save money. Consider the size of the area, the moisture levels and drainage, the height of coverage you desire, the exposure and the fertility of the soil as you choose your ground cover. Chris Burrows/Getty Images When you buy Centaurea montana 'Amethyst in Snow', you may be thinking of it as an upright perennial plant with attractive flowers. Sometimes there isn’t action to accurately remove the amount of water in the ground. Creeping ground covers are easy to plant and quick to establish. Biggest thing you need to understand is rainwater penetrates topsoil and starts to head down the... 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