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Ground cover plants are a low-maintenance way to add interesting color and texture to any yard. Most people think of ground covers as low-growing mats of green leaves. But some ground covers can grow as tall as four feet and many have attractive flowers. There are even evergreen ground covers, for color throughout the year. The thing that unites these plants under the designation "ground cover" is their ability to spread and quickly form a dense cover.

The uses for ground covers are as varied as the plants themselves. They are perfect for densely shaded areas of the yard where grass won't grow or steep slopes that are difficult to mow. Ground covers provide texture and contrasts, especially between different planting areas. Ground covers reduce soil erosion and many will grow in marginal soils. Many ground covers are perfect for dry climates where most other plants just will not grow.

Although annual ground covers exist, they require frequent care and, of course, yearly re-planting. They are suitable only for people who like to frequently change the look of their landscaping. For a low-maintenance yard, most people prefer perennials. Once established, these plants will pretty much take care of themselves, allowing you to sit back and enjoy.

When selecting ground cover plants, remember that just like any other plant, ground covers have preferred sun and soil conditions. Some plants will grow in a range of conditions, but others prefer full sun or shade. Your local garden center can help you determine which ground covers will work best in your garden.

As with any plants, the key to easy ground cover plants is in the initial planting. Put in the extra work to prepare the soil well before planting to avoid extra work down the road. Spring and fall are the best planting times. Spring planting allows time for the plants to establish themselves before winter. Fall plantings may require mulching to protect the new plants from frost. If you do plant in the summer, be aware that your new plants will require extra water to ensure best health.

The first step in bed preparation is to kill all the weeds in your selected area. If you have the time and the patience, cover the soil with black plastic for at least one month-up to three months is ideal. For a quicker solution, use a glyphosate herbicide, which does not leave a harmful residue. Either way, once the weeds are dead, till them under.

The entire bed should be tilled to about 6-8 inches. This is also the time to add in additional

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