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Choosing the right groundcover plants is essential for maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape, especially in USDA Zone 7. Native groundcovers are an excellent option because they are adapted to the local climate, require less maintenance, and support local wildlife. This article explores some of the best native groundcovers for Zone 7, focusing on their coverage capabilities and care requirements.
Benefits of Using Native Groundcovers in Zone 7
Native groundcovers offer numerous benefits for Zone 7 gardens. They are well-suited to the local soil and climate conditions, which means they generally require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides. Additionally, they help prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and provide habitat for native pollinators and wildlife. Their adaptability makes them a sustainable choice for homeowners and landscapers aiming for eco-friendly landscapes.
Top Native Groundcovers for Coverage in Zone 7
- Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
- Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)
- Georgia Aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum)
- Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
- Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Details and Care Tips for Each Groundcover
Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
This low-growing perennial forms dense mats of vibrant flowers in spring. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it requires minimal watering and is drought-tolerant. Prune after flowering to maintain a tidy appearance.
Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)
A vigorous vine that can cover large areas quickly. It prefers full sun to part shade and adapts to various soil types. Virginia Creeper provides excellent ground coverage and seasonal color with its red fall foliage. Regular pruning helps control its spread.
Georgia Aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum)
This perennial produces clusters of purple flowers in late summer and fall. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Georgia Aster is drought-tolerant once established and attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
Wild Ginger is a shade-loving groundcover with attractive heart-shaped leaves. It thrives in moist, rich soil and benefits from organic mulches. It’s ideal for woodland gardens and helps suppress weeds in shaded areas.
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
This evergreen groundcover features leathery leaves and red berries in fall. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, sandy or rocky soils. Bearberry is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it perfect for slopes and rocky gardens.
Final Tips for Successful Groundcover Planting
When planting native groundcovers in Zone 7, prepare the soil by removing weeds and amending it with organic matter if necessary. Plant during the cooler months of spring or fall to establish strong roots. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regular watering during dry spells will help new plants establish, after which most native groundcovers become quite drought-tolerant.
By selecting the right native groundcover for your landscape and providing proper care, you can create a beautiful, sustainable, and low-maintenance garden that supports local ecosystems in Zone 7.