Which Groundcover is Right For You? We're "Covering" the benefits of them all.
Spring is creeping up on us and it's time to bring our lawns back to life. Everyone has their preference, but many do not actually know the benefits and downfalls of certain types of groundcovers. Yes color is always important when determining the aesthetics you hope to achieve, but understanding which coverings will protect your plants or control erosion is also an aspect that deserves consideration.
Bark Mulch and/or Wood Chips
Pros: Inexpensive, improved Soil Structure, Weed Suppressant, Large variety of colors
Cons: Must be replenished, Can be treated with chemical dyes (Pine Bark) is more acidic
Pine Straw
Pros: Inexpensive, Readily Available, Good Insulator for Plants, Allows Good Water Flow
Cons: Prone to Weeds, Difficult to spread evenly, Flattens Out Quickly, Creatures Like to Burrow in it
Gravel, Stone, or Rock
Pros: Most Durable, Long Lasting, Provides Erosion Control, Gives a Refined Look
Cons: More Expensive than Others, Tedious to Remove/Plant In, Can Attract to Much Heat