Ground Cover For Area Where Sun Never Shines - Knowledgebase Question

Moody, AL
Avatar for Roberthill
Question by Roberthill
January 26, 1998
75% of my front yard never sees the sun at ground level. I have approx. 50 dogwoods, and 10 oaks. I love my trees! I would like to have something green or flowering on the ground. Bark or straw just doesn't appeal. I want some living thing to enjoy. Can you give me any suggestions for my area. The soil is not good, most of the top soil has washed away.
Thanks


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Answer from NGA
January 26, 1998
There are quite a few groundcovers that will suit that area. Consider Ajuga (Carpet Bugle, many varieties), Aegopodium (Snow-on-the-Mountain, spreads very quickly), or Asarum canadensis (Wild Ginger). The first two have flowers. You will need to improve the soil a bit to get ground cover to thrive in that area. At planting time, work organic matter such as compost, leaf mould, or composted cow manure into the planting area. This will gently nourish the plants and improve soil composition. You mention the top soil has washed away...is this area subject to regular flooding? If yes, you may not be successful at getting any groundcover to thrive.

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