9 Ground Cover Plants to Bring New Life to Your UK Garden

Posted on 15/05/2025

9 Ground Cover Plants to Bring New Life to Your UK Garden

Ground cover plants are a fantastic way to improve the aesthetics and functionality of your UK garden. These plants not only add beauty and texture but also help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and prevent erosion. Here, we'll explore nine stunning ground cover options that thrive in the diverse climates of the UK.

Why Choose Ground Cover Plants?

Ground cover plants offer numerous benefits to gardens across the UK. Here are a few reasons why they are a popular choice:

• Low Maintenance: Once established, ground cover plants require minimal care.
• Weed Suppression: By covering the ground densely, these plants reduce the presence of weeds.
• Soil Protection: Their root systems help prevent soil erosion and maintain soil health.
• Variety: With a wide range of colors, textures, and heights, you can find the perfect match for your garden's aesthetic.

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Known for its aromatic foliage and delicate purple flowers, creeping thyme is a versatile option for UK gardens. It thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil, making it perfect for rock gardens and pathways. Bonus: it's edible!

Growing Tips:

• Plant in spring or autumn for best results.
• Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
• Water sparingly; it's drought tolerant once established.

2. Common Ivy (Hedera helix)

A hardy evergreen that adapts to various conditions, common ivy is excellent for shaded areas. It spreads quickly and provides lush green coverage year-round.

Growing Tips:

• Plant in a variety of soil types; it is quite resilient.
• Control its growth regularly to prevent it from becoming invasive.
• Can also be used to cover walls and fences elegantly.

3. Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)

Famous for its beautiful blue flowers and glossy leaves, bugleweed is a stunning ground cover plant that suits both sun and shade. It is perfect for filling spaces under trees.

Growing Tips:

• Plant in moist, well-drained soil.
• Space plants around 20 cm apart for rapid coverage.
• Divide clumps in spring to control the spread.

4. Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Nothing compares to the fragrance of chamomile underfoot. This classic ground cover plant flourishes in full sun and creates a soft, fragrant carpet. It's also ideal for planting between paving stones.

Growing Tips:

• Thrives best in light, sandy soil.
• Frequent mowing encourages new growth and a dense mat.
• Mulch in winter to protect from frost.

5. Heather (Calluna vulgaris)

Heather adds a splash of color with its vibrant flowers that bloom from late summer to winter. It's best for acidic soils common in parts of the UK.

Growing Tips:

• Best planted in open areas with good drainage.
• Regular pruning post-bloom keeps plants healthy and encourages new growth.
• Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

6. Periwinkle (Vinca minor)

This evergreen plant is adored for its glossy leaves and charming blue-purple flowers. Periwinkle is shade tolerant and ideal for ground cover in woodland gardens.

Growing Tips:

• Great for covering large areas quickly.
• Thrives in both shade and partial shade.
• Fast-growing, so regular trimming may be necessary.

7. Lilyturf (Liriope muscari)

With its grassy foliage and spikes of purple flowers, lilyturf provides year-round interest and thrives in a variety of soil conditions. It's perfect for borders and edges.

Growing Tips:

• Prefers partial shade but tolerates sun.
• Regular watering during dry spells is required.
• Trim back in early spring to promote vigorous growth.

8. Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

This plant is distinguished by its whorls of fragrant leaves and white blossoms. Sweet woodruff is excellent for shady spots in your garden.

Growing Tips:

• Plant in rich, moist soil to retain fragrance and lush growth.
• Best if planted where natural woodland conditions can be mimicked.
• Given its quick spread, division may be necessary as the plant matures.

9. Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)

Japanese spurge, with its dense green foliage, is tolerant of shade and provides a thick carpet that's excellent for covering unsightly areas.

Growing Tips:

• Thrives in damp, well-drained soil and semi-shade.
• Ideal for banks and steep slopes due to its excellent root system.
• Cut back in early spring to encourage dense growth.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ground cover plants can transform your UK garden, offering both beauty and practicality. Whether you prefer vibrant flowers or lush greenery, there's a ground cover option perfect for every garden setting. Embrace the diversity these plants bring and enjoy a blooming, low-maintenance oasis in your backyard.