I used to look at the bare spaces along my garden path and feel like something was missing. The ground itself felt…unfinished. That’s when I discovered the magic of groundcovers.
The first time I planted creeping thyme, I was hooked. Soon, I started experimenting.
Now, my garden path feels like a journey rather than just a walkway. If you’re looking for that extra touch to make your garden feel more complete, here are some of my favorite groundcovers that bring personality to every step.
1. Creeping Thyme
Imagine tiptoeing through a carpet of fragrant leaves. Creeping Thyme is the charmer here. This little fellow isn’t just pretty. It’s incredibly aromatic. Plant it and enjoy its beautiful perfume every time you pass by.
Its flowers are a bonus, inviting bees to your garden party. Good news—it’s low maintenance, preferring the sun and well-drained soil.
And if you’re into edible gardening, this one’s a tasty treat! Just think of all the culinary adventures you’ll have, right from your garden path. It’s thyme to spice things up!
2. Irish Moss
When it comes to green carpets, Irish Moss is your go-to. Despite its name, it’s not actually moss, but it sure feels like one. Could you imagine sinking your toes into a pillow of greenery?
This groundcover thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It’s perfect for those shady spots along your path yearning for some love.
Maintenance? Hardly any! Let it spread and do its thing. Honestly, who wouldn’t want a little piece of the Emerald Isle right at their feet?
3. Mazus Reptans
This small but mighty plant is all about resilience. Mazus Reptans spread like butter across toast. Needing just a smidge of attention, it’s great for those who prefer a low-effort garden.
It loves moist soil and some sun to keep it going. With its fast-spreading nature, it can quickly cover ground, making it ideal for imperfect paths.
If you’re in a hurry to fill those gaps, Mazus Reptans is the quick fix you’ve been dreaming of. Fast, fun, and fabulous!
4. Corsican Mint
Your garden path can be a delight with Corsican Mint. The tiniest member of the mint family.
Perfect for dappled shade or full sun, it prefers moist, well-drained soil. Be prepared for a bit of nurturing, though—regular watering is key. As a bonus, it attracts butterflies.
Plus, who can resist a plant that smells like fresh breath? Scatter some seeds and watch the fragrant magic happen. Your path will thank you for the minty makeover!
5. Ajuga Reptans
This beauty stands out with its foliage and blue flower spikes. Ajuga Reptans, also known as Bugleweed, is a showstopper.
It thrives in partial shade, easily adapting to most soil conditions. While it’s not the shy type, it does need space to spread.
It’s perfect for adding drama without fuss—just plant and let it strut its stuff. Plus, its evergreen nature ensures your path looks fabulous all year round. Now, isn’t that something to bugle about?
6. Blue Star Creeper
If you’re a fan of stars underfoot, this one’s for you. Blue Star Creeper, with its blue flowers, is like a constellation on the ground. It’s completely captivating.
This hardy creeper thrives in both sun and partial shade, needing little more than decent soil and occasional watering. It spreads eagerly, making it ideal for covering large areas quickly.
Whether you’re filling gaps or creating a seamless green carpet, Blue Star Creeper is your star player. Amazing, isn’t it?
7. Sedum Spurium
Here’s a plant that’s tough as nails and pretty as a picture. Sedum Spurium, with its succulent leaves and pink flowers, is all about contrast.
It’s drought-tolerant, thriving in sunny spots with little water. Ideal for those who love a low-maintenance garden. It’s perfect for adding color without the hassle. Its spreading nature makes it great for covering large areas.
And did we mention it’s evergreen? Enjoy having color year-round. For a plant that’s got your back in any weather, Sedum Spurium is the way to go. It’s another word for ‘easy-going’.
8. Sweet Woodruff
Looking for something sweet and aromatic? Sweet Woodruff might just be your garden’s new best friend. With its leaves and white flowers, it’s a sight to behold.
Thriving in shady spots, it’s ideal for those hard-to-fill areas. Plus, it’s low-maintenance—just plant and let it spread. The leaves release a sweet scent, especially when dried, making it a lovely addition to potpourri.
So, if you’re after a plant that’s as sweet as it sounds, give Sweet Woodruff a try. The name says it all!
9. Herniaria Glabra
Also known as Green Carpet, Herniaria Glabra is exactly what it sounds like—a beautiful green carpet for your garden path. It’s low-growing and spreads easily, filling gaps like a pro.
This sun-loving plant thrives in well-drained soil, needing very little pampering. Maintenance? Practically none! It’s perfect if you’re after a tidy look without effort.
And bonus—it’s strong enough to withstand some foot traffic. Herniaria Glabra is the star. Step on it, literally. You won’t regret it!
10. Creeping Jenny
Add a touch of gold to your garden with Creeping Jenny.
This sun-loving groundcover enjoys being in moist soil, spreading quickly to fill in gaps. It’s perfect for adding a pop of color, especially in areas needing a touch of brightness. Maintenance is minimal. Trim it back if it gets too enthusiastic.
Creeping Jenny is like that sunny friend who lights up the room. After all, who doesn’t need a little sunshine?
11. Lamb’s Ear
Touch it once, and you’ll know why it’s called Lamb’s Ear.
This fuzzy friend loves sunny spots and well-drained soil, needing minimal water once established. It’s not just a pretty face; it’s strong and easy to maintain.
If you want a plant that’s as soft as it looks, Lamb’s Ear is your go-to. Let its gentle texture lead you down the garden path. Soft and simply irresistible!
12. Vinca Minor
Meet the classic charmer of groundcovers—Vinca Minor. With its leaves and periwinkle flowers, it’s a timeless beauty. It’s hardy, reliable, and oh-so-easy to grow.
Growing in both sun and shade, it’s perfect for those tricky spots where nothing else wants to grow. And maintenance? Virtually none!
It’s perfect for those who love a hands-off approach. Vinca Minor is the dependable friend your garden’s been waiting for.
13. Dichondra Repens
Dichondra Repens is your dream come true.
It enjoys being in partial shade to full sun, needing minimal watering once established. For those looking for a lawn alternative, this one’s a winner. With its low-growing nature, it’s perfect for adding a smooth surface.
And, it’s pet-friendly! So, feel free to let your furry friends roam.
14. Creeping Phlox
When it comes to a floral display, Creeping Phlox steals the show.
This sun-loving beauty lives in well-drained soil. It spreads quickly to create a floral carpet. It’s perfect for adding drama to your garden.
Maintenance is easy. It needs just a bit of trimming after blooming. Let it go over your garden path and enjoy the show.
15. Japanese Spurge
For those shady spots in your garden, Japanese Spurge is a reliable choice.
This evergreen groundcover loves shade. Plus, it needs just a bit of moisture to keep it going. It’s slow-growing but worth the wait. It’s ideal for areas where nothing else wants to grow.
With minimal maintenance, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of plant. Amazing, right?
16. Golden Creeping Jenny
Think of this as the golden sibling of Creeping Jenny.
Moist, sunny spots, and you will find it spreading quickly to fill spaces. Maintenance is a breeze—just trim if it gets too wild.
If you’re after a plant that brightens up your path with minimal fuss, Golden Creeping Jenny is your answer.
17. Epimedium
Known for its elegant flowers, Epimedium is a shade-loving beauty.
Partial to full shade, it requires little. Add some well-drained soil and occasional watering, and you’ve got yourself a winner!
Plus, it hardly needs any maintenance! Epimedium is your plant. Trust me!
18. Veronica Filiformis
Veronica Filiformis, or Creeping Speedwell, has a quiet way of making a garden feel more inviting. I love how it spreads without being pushy, filling in bare spots with ease.
It doesn’t ask for much—just a bit of moisture and the occasional trim to keep it tidy. This little groundcover is a perfect choice. It’s like a breath of fresh air for any garden.
19. Bearberry
There’s something special about the Bearberry in the garden. In the colder months, those leaves take on a burgundy color. The red berries are a bonus. They draw in birds and make the garden more alive.
It’s one of those plants that asks for so little but gives so much. Thriving in sandy soil, basking in the sun, and needing almost no attention. If you love a garden with a touch of the wild, Bearberry is the perfect fit.
20. Snow-In-Summer
When the heat is on, Snow-In-Summer cools things down.
This groundcover prefers well-drained soil, thriving in hot, dry conditions. It’s perfect for adding contrast to any planting scheme. Just give it a trim after flowering to keep it neat.
If you want a snowy delight, no matter the season, I’ve got you covered!