Mulch is the most common tool used to keep weeds out.
By preventing light from reaching seeds, mulch reduces weed seed germination.
In spring, white, pink, or violet flowers cover plants and draw butterflies with their spectacular show.
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Moss phlox is great for erosion control on slopes or plantingas a groundcoverbeneath roses and other shrubs.
True-blue flowers and beautiful burgundy-red fall foliage provide interest from late summer through fall.
Watch for butterflies andhummingbirdssipping nectar from the flowers.
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Plants spread by rhizome to produce a soft dense mat.
The cultivar ‘Helene Von Stein’ has some of the best foliage.
Plant in masses beneath trees and large shrubs for an evergreen groundcover.
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Plants will slowly naturalize in woodland gardens through self-seeding.
This southeastern native looks lovely as an edging along woodland paths.
Plants spread by rhizomes and self-seeding to form an attractive groundcover.
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Theevergreento semi-evergreen foliage is topped by vibrant purple flower spikes in mid to late spring.
Bugleweed tolerates all light levels, making a useful groundcover for repeating through the landscape.
Hosta
With their broad leaves and dense clumping habit, hostas provide plenty of competition against weeds.
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Lavender blooms stand above the foliage in summer, invitinghummingbirdsto dine.
Plants tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soil, and thrive where other plants fail.
This sprawling evergreen works well inhot, dry areas.
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Allegheny spurge thrives in dappled shade under large trees andtolerates heavy shade.
Stunning, clove-scented blooms cover plants in a flush of magenta pink for several weeks in spring.
Flowers make excellent cut flowers andattract butterfliesto the garden.
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Credit:Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org
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Credit:USDA Forest Service - Region 8 - Southern , USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org
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