The plants listed here have been evaluated under different growing conditions for their ease of establishment, low maintenance characteristics and their ability to exclude weeds.
Our initial screening tests took place in Ithaca (Finger Lakes region, zone 5) and Riverhead (eastern Long Island, zone 7), New York. Since then demonstration plots have been established across New York State.
This table summarizes the growth characteristics for the top rated groundcovers. All of these plants will perform well in full sun and many will do well in part shade too. If you are interested in native plants look for those that originate in North America.
What’s in a name?
A groundcover is a perennial plant used en masse for its visual wallop—and to crowd out weeds.
Many are gorgeous perennials that gardeners have used in flower borders for years. Now we’re finding that some are top performers in the "tough sites" department too.
Fewer weeds means less herbicide use. Good news for you … and for the environment. |