Need Ground Cover That Doesn't Climb - Knowledgebase Question

Silvis, IL
Avatar for kf9tl
Question by kf9tl
June 4, 2001
We have an area next to our pool and under our wood fence. I would like to have a colorful ground cover or low growing plant to fill in the area. It is about a foot wide (between concrete deck and block retaining wall. The fence tends to shade the area. We do not want anything growing one our fence but need color below it.
Any suggestions? Thought about Cameleon Houttuynia but not sure is this is wet enough area or if it would climb.


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Answer from NGA
June 4, 2001
My first thought is that the soil will likely be made alkaline, thanks to the lime in the concrete deck and retaining wall. You can purchase a pH test kit at any garden center and do a quick reading to see if you need to adjust pH for the plant you eventually choose, since most plants don't do well at pH greater than 7.5. Also, to get established, any plant you install will need supplemental moisture for at least a couple of months, and perhaps all summer the first year.

Chameleon Houttuynia doesn't climb, but it spreads rapidly. It's coloration would be most dramatic in full sun, but it will grow fine in partial shade. It does prefer moist soil. You can reduce watering needs by mixing water-holding polymer, like Burpee's Terra Sorb, into the soil at planting time. Use it as directed on the label -- if you use too much or put it in the wrong place you can end up with a mess as the crystals engorge water.

Groundcovers more tolerant of dry conditions once they are established include ornamental grasses, dwarf daylilies, and pachysandra. I hope this helps!

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