7 Ground Covers to Plant in Victoria, BC
Ground covers are a versatile and practical choiceGround covers are an essential part of any garden, providing beauty, erosion control, and weed suppression. In Victoria, BC, the mild climate allows for a variety of ground covers that can thrive year-round. Whether you’re looking to fill a shady spot, add color to sunny areas, or create a low-maintenance landscape, ground covers are a versatile and practical choice.
This article highlights seven of the best ground covers for planting in Victoria BC and explores how they can enhance your outdoor space.
1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Creeping Thyme is a hardy, fragrant ground cover that thrives in sunny areas. Its small, vibrant flowers attract pollinators and add pops of color to your garden.
Why Plant Creeping Thyme?
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
- Fragrant and Functional: Releases a pleasant scent when walked on.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies.
Ideal Uses:
Perfect for planting in Victoria BC between stepping stones, along walkways, or in sunny borders.
2. Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)
Sweet Woodruff is a shade-loving ground cover with delicate, star-shaped flowers and bright green foliage. It’s an excellent choice for areas under trees or in woodland gardens.
Why Plant Sweet Woodruff?
- Shade Tolerance: Thrives in partial to full shade.
- Fragrant Blooms: Produces a sweet scent, especially when dried.
- Erosion Control: Spreads quickly to cover bare soil.
Ideal Uses:
Great for shaded gardens, under trees, or as a filler in damp, low-light areas.
3. Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
Periwinkle, also known as Myrtle, is a popular evergreen ground cover with glossy leaves and vibrant blue or purple flowers.
Why Plant Periwinkle?
- Year-Round Greenery: Maintains its foliage even in winter.
- Fast-Spreading: Quickly covers large areas.
- Low Maintenance: Grows well in both sun and shade.
Ideal Uses:
Ideal for planting in Victoria BC on slopes, under shrubs, or as a low-maintenance filler in mixed borders.
4. Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Bearberry is a hardy, native ground cover with small, glossy leaves, pinkish-white flowers, and red berries. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in Victoria’s coastal climate.
Why Plant Bearberry?
- Native Plant: Supports local ecosystems and wildlife.
- Drought Tolerance: Ideal for dry, rocky areas.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers flowers, berries, and evergreen foliage.
Ideal Uses:
Perfect for naturalized landscapes, rock gardens, or sunny slopes.
5. Irish Moss (Sagina subulata)
Irish Moss is a soft, mat-forming ground cover that creates a lush, green carpet in sunny or partially shaded areas. Its tiny white flowers add a delicate touch.
Why Plant Irish Moss?
- Compact Growth: Stays low to the ground, making it ideal for tight spaces.
- Soft Texture: Adds a luxurious, velvety look to your garden.
- Tolerant: Handles light foot traffic.
Ideal Uses:
Great for planting in Victoria BC between stepping stones, along pathways, or in container gardens.
6. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
Creeping Jenny is a fast-growing ground cover with bright green or golden leaves that spill beautifully over edges. It’s perfect for adding color and texture to your garden.
Why Plant Creeping Jenny?
- Vibrant Color: Adds a cheerful golden hue to your landscape.
- Versatile: Grows well in sun or partial shade.
- Moisture-Loving: Thrives in damp areas, making it ideal for water features.
Ideal Uses:
Perfect for garden borders, around ponds, or as a trailing plant in containers.
7. Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum is a drought-tolerant ground cover with fleshy, succulent leaves and colorful flowers. It thrives in sunny, dry areas and requires little water.
Why Plant Sedum?
- Drought Resistance: Ideal for low-water gardens.
- Variety: Comes in a range of colors and textures.
- Year-Round Interest: Evergreen foliage adds beauty in all seasons.
Ideal Uses:
Perfect for rock gardens, sunny slopes, or as a filler in xeriscaped areas.
Benefits of Planting in Victoria BC
- Weed Suppression: Dense ground covers prevent weeds from taking over.
- Erosion Control: Helps stabilize soil on slopes and other challenging areas.
- Low Maintenance: Many ground covers require minimal watering and care once established.
- Biodiversity: Ground covers attract pollinators and other beneficial wildlife.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds color, texture, and structure to your garden.
How Ascent Yard Care Can Help
If you’re planning to incorporate ground covers into your garden, Ascent Yard Care is here to help. We specialize in selecting and planting ground covers that thrive in Victoria BC’s unique climate.
Our Services Include:
- Ground Cover Selection: We recommend the best plants for your garden based on sunlight, soil type, and design goals.
- Professional Planting: Our team ensures proper planting techniques for optimal growth and coverage.
- Maintenance Advice: We provide tips on watering, pruning, and long-term care to keep your ground covers healthy.
Start Planting in Victoria BC Today
Ground covers are a versatile and practical solution for any garden, offering beauty, functionality, and low-maintenance appeal. From the vibrant blooms of Creeping Thyme to the lush greenery of Irish Moss, there’s a ground cover for every garden style and need.
Contact Ascent Yard Care today to learn more about our ground cover planting services in Victoria BC and start creating a garden that’s both beautiful and sustainable!