What is a Pretty Fast Growing Ground Cover?

Ground cover plants are the unsung heroes of the garden. They’re not as showy as a rose bush or as towering as a tree, but they perform essential functions. They suppress weeds, control erosion, conserve moisture, and add visual appeal to otherwise bare areas. When you’re looking for a ground cover that delivers results quickly, speed is of the essence. But “pretty” is also key – nobody wants a rapidly expanding eyesore. So, what options offer both rapid growth and aesthetic value? Let’s explore some of the best contenders.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Need for Speed (and Beauty)

Why are fast-growing ground covers so desirable? The answer lies in the benefits they offer, especially in situations where you need quick results.

Think about a newly landscaped area. Perhaps you’ve just completed a construction project or cleared a patch of land. The soil is exposed and vulnerable, prone to erosion from wind and rain. Weeds will inevitably rush in to colonize the bare earth. A fast-growing ground cover can quickly stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and outcompeting weeds before they gain a foothold.

Beyond immediate practical benefits, quick establishment allows you to enjoy the aesthetic value of your planting much sooner. Instead of staring at bare earth for months, you can have a lush carpet of greenery in a matter of weeks, improving the overall appearance of your property.

However, speed shouldn’t be the only consideration. Some fast-growing plants can become invasive, spreading beyond their intended boundaries and disrupting the balance of your garden ecosystem. You want a ground cover that is quick to establish but also manageable and well-behaved. And of course, it should be visually appealing.

Top Contenders for Fast-Growing and Beautiful Ground Covers

Several plants combine rapid growth with attractive features, making them ideal choices for ground cover. Here are a few of the best, with notes on their specific requirements and characteristics.

Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping thyme is a low-growing, aromatic herb that forms a dense mat of foliage. It’s incredibly versatile, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s also drought-tolerant once established. The tiny leaves are typically green but can also have hints of silver or gold, adding visual interest. In summer, creeping thyme produces masses of tiny flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white, creating a beautiful carpet of color.

Why it’s fast-growing: Creeping thyme spreads quickly through rhizomes and stems that root as they creep along the ground. Under optimal conditions, it can cover a significant area in a single growing season.

Why it’s beautiful: The dense foliage, delicate flowers, and pleasant aroma make creeping thyme a highly desirable ground cover. It’s also relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning or fertilization.

Important Note: Creeping thyme prefers well-drained soil and can suffer in overly wet conditions. Avoid planting it in areas that are prone to waterlogging.

Sedum (Various Species)

Sedums, also known as stonecrops, are succulent plants that are prized for their drought tolerance and easy care. There are many different species and cultivars of sedum, ranging in size, color, and growth habit. Some of the most popular ground cover sedums include Sedum spurium (‘Dragon’s Blood’), Sedum kamtschaticum, and Sedum acre (‘Goldmoss’).

Why it’s fast-growing: Sedums propagate easily from stem cuttings, and many species spread quickly through rhizomes or creeping stems. They establish quickly and can rapidly fill in bare areas.

Why it’s beautiful: Sedums offer a wide range of colors and textures. Some have reddish-bronze foliage, while others are bright green or silvery-blue. They produce clusters of star-shaped flowers in late summer or fall, attracting pollinators to your garden. Many varieties also offer excellent winter interest.

Important Note: Sedums require well-drained soil and full sun. They are susceptible to root rot in wet conditions, so avoid overwatering.

Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)

Bugleweed is a fast-spreading ground cover with attractive foliage and showy flower spikes. It’s relatively adaptable, tolerating a range of soil conditions and light levels, although it prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. The leaves are typically dark green but can also be bronze, purple, or variegated. In spring, bugleweed produces spikes of blue or purple flowers, adding a splash of color to the garden.

Why it’s fast-growing: Bugleweed spreads rapidly through stolons (above-ground stems that root at the nodes). It can quickly form a dense mat of foliage, suppressing weeds and controlling erosion.

Why it’s beautiful: The attractive foliage, showy flowers, and ability to thrive in partial shade make bugleweed a valuable ground cover. It’s also relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning or fertilization.

Important Note: Bugleweed can be aggressive in some situations, so it’s important to choose a cultivar that is less likely to spread excessively. Regular monitoring and occasional pruning can help to keep it under control. Also, ensure you are not planting it in full sun, the leaves can burn.

Vinca Minor (Periwinkle)

Vinca minor, commonly known as periwinkle, is a classic ground cover choice prized for its evergreen foliage and delicate blue flowers. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant that tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and light levels, although it prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Why it’s fast-growing: Vinca minor spreads quickly through trailing stems that root as they come into contact with the soil. It can form a dense mat of foliage, suppressing weeds and controlling erosion.

Why it’s beautiful: The glossy, dark green foliage provides year-round interest, and the delicate blue flowers add a touch of elegance in spring. Vinca minor is also relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning or fertilization.

Important Note: Vinca minor can be invasive in some areas, so it’s important to choose a cultivar that is less likely to spread excessively. Regular monitoring and occasional pruning can help to keep it under control. Consider using it in contained areas to manage its growth.

Factors Influencing Growth Rate

The growth rate of any ground cover is influenced by a number of factors, including:

Soil Conditions: The type of soil, its fertility, and its drainage all play a role in plant growth. Most ground covers prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amending the soil with compost or other organic materials can improve its texture and fertility, promoting faster growth.
Sunlight: Different ground covers have different sunlight requirements. Some thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Providing the appropriate amount of sunlight is essential for optimal growth.
Watering: Regular watering is important for establishing new ground cover plants. Once established, most ground covers are relatively drought-tolerant, but they still need occasional watering during dry periods.
Climate: The climate in your area will also affect the growth rate of your ground cover. Some ground covers are more tolerant of cold weather than others.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as weeding and fertilizing, can help to promote faster growth. Removing weeds will reduce competition for resources, and fertilizing will provide the plants with the nutrients they need to thrive.

Tips for Establishing Ground Cover Quickly

Follow these tips to give your ground cover the best possible start and encourage rapid growth:

Prepare the soil thoroughly: Before planting, remove any existing weeds and debris from the area. Amend the soil with compost or other organic materials to improve its texture and fertility.
Choose the right plant: Select a ground cover that is well-suited to your climate, soil conditions, and light levels.
Plant at the right time: The best time to plant ground cover is typically in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there is plenty of moisture.
Water regularly: Water the plants regularly after planting to help them establish their roots.
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilize: Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Weed regularly: Remove any weeds that emerge around the plants to reduce competition for resources.
Monitor for pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases and take action promptly to prevent them from spreading.

Comparing Ground Cover Options

While we’ve discussed several excellent options, a quick comparison can help solidify your decision:

This table provides a starting point. Remember to research specific varieties within each species to find the perfect match for your garden.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Uses for Fast-Growing Ground Cover

Fast-growing ground covers aren’t just for filling in empty spaces. They can be used in a variety of creative ways to enhance your landscape.

Between stepping stones: Plant creeping thyme or sedum between stepping stones to create a charming and fragrant pathway.
On slopes: Use ground cover to stabilize slopes and prevent erosion.
Under trees: Plant shade-tolerant ground cover under trees where grass struggles to grow.
In rock gardens: Ground cover can add texture and color to rock gardens.
As a lawn alternative: Consider using a low-growing ground cover as a lawn alternative in areas where you don’t need a traditional lawn.

The possibilities are endless. With a little creativity, you can use fast-growing ground covers to transform your garden into a beautiful and functional space. Remember to always research your choices and consider the long-term implications before planting.

What defines a “pretty fast-growing ground cover”?

A “pretty fast-growing ground cover” generally refers to a plant species that spreads relatively quickly and densely across the ground, providing visual appeal alongside its functional purpose. The ‘pretty’ aspect considers aesthetic qualities such as foliage texture, color, and flowering ability. The ‘fast-growing’ aspect implies a noticeable spread within a single growing season or a few seasons, depending on the climate and growing conditions, requiring potentially more management but achieving faster coverage.

It’s important to note that “fast-growing” is subjective. The speed will depend on factors such as sunlight, soil quality, water availability, and the specific plant species. While some ground covers may rapidly colonize an area, others might spread more moderately. Therefore, understanding the plant’s growth habits and adapting care practices to suit its needs is crucial for successful establishment and containment, ensuring it serves its purpose without becoming overly invasive.

Why choose a fast-growing ground cover over other landscaping options?

Fast-growing ground covers offer numerous advantages, primarily quick soil stabilization and weed suppression. They rapidly fill bare areas, preventing erosion and minimizing the need for herbicides. Furthermore, they can add visual interest with their foliage, flowers, and textures, creating a lush and inviting landscape much faster than slower-growing alternatives or traditional lawns.

Besides the practical benefits, these ground covers offer an economical way to cover large areas, reducing the cost associated with paving or other more expensive landscaping materials. They can also help moderate soil temperature and retain moisture, benefiting surrounding plants. Their quick establishment provides an almost immediate impact, transforming the landscape and offering a visually pleasing solution to bare or problematic areas.

Which ground cover plants are considered both “pretty” and “fast-growing”?

Several ground cover plants are known for their combination of aesthetic appeal and rapid spread. Examples include creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum), which features fragrant foliage and tiny flowers, and various species of sedum, renowned for their succulent leaves and drought tolerance. Another option is creeping phlox (Phlox subulata), which boasts vibrant blooms in spring and remains evergreen in many climates.

Beyond these examples, consider periwinkle (Vinca minor) for its glossy leaves and delicate blue flowers, or snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum) for its silver foliage and white blossoms. It’s crucial to research the specific growing conditions favored by each plant, as well as its potential invasiveness in your region, to ensure it thrives and remains manageable within your landscape. Consider native alternatives where possible for ecological benefits.

How do I properly prepare the soil for planting a fast-growing ground cover?

Proper soil preparation is essential for the successful establishment and rapid growth of any ground cover. Begin by removing existing weeds, grass, and debris from the planting area. This eliminates competition for resources and prevents unwanted plants from interfering with the ground cover’s spread. Tilling or turning the soil loosens it, allowing for better root penetration and drainage.

Next, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This improves soil structure, fertility, and water retention, creating a more favorable environment for the ground cover to flourish. Consider conducting a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient content, adjusting accordingly with lime or other amendments. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot, particularly for succulents like sedum.

What are the potential drawbacks of using a fast-growing ground cover?

While fast-growing ground covers offer many advantages, they can also present certain challenges. Their rapid spread can sometimes make them difficult to control, potentially encroaching on neighboring plants or even becoming invasive in certain environments. Regular pruning and edging may be necessary to contain their growth and prevent them from spreading beyond their intended area.

Another potential drawback is their ability to outcompete other desirable plants, especially if not properly managed. Some species can become so dense that they block sunlight and nutrients from reaching the roots of nearby flowers, shrubs, or trees. Therefore, careful selection and consistent maintenance are crucial to ensure a balanced and healthy landscape. Monitor regularly and be prepared to take action if the ground cover becomes too aggressive.

How do I control the spread of a fast-growing ground cover?

Controlling the spread of a fast-growing ground cover requires proactive management and regular maintenance. Physical barriers, such as edging made from plastic, metal, or stone, can effectively contain the plants’ growth by preventing them from spreading into unwanted areas. Burying the edging deep enough into the ground ensures that roots and rhizomes cannot easily bypass it.

In addition to physical barriers, regular pruning and trimming can help to manage the spread. This is particularly important for ground covers that spread through runners or stolons. Promptly removing any unwanted growth that extends beyond the desired boundaries prevents further colonization. Careful monitoring and consistent effort are key to keeping these plants in check and maintaining a well-defined landscape.

How often should I water and fertilize a fast-growing ground cover?

Watering and fertilization needs vary depending on the specific species of ground cover, the climate, and the soil type. Generally, newly planted ground covers require more frequent watering to establish strong root systems. Regular watering during dry periods, especially in the first year, promotes healthy growth and rapid spread. Once established, many ground covers are relatively drought-tolerant and require less frequent watering.

Fertilization should be done sparingly, as excessive fertilization can lead to overly rapid growth and potentially weaken the plant. A balanced fertilizer applied in the spring can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy foliage and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can encourage excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering. Soil testing can help determine specific nutrient deficiencies and guide fertilization practices.