CHOOSE WISELY!

There are many ways to cover the soil or open areas between trees and shrubs, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Helia tells us why a living cover for the soil is so beneficial:

“In most instances, a living cover for soil is easier on the eye than pebbles or even bark,” she says. “Ground-covering plants have ornamental value in the garden, whether it be with pretty flowers, interesting texture or striking foliage colour.

“There are a wide variety of groundcovers from which to choose for different garden uses. Before you buy, check how much sun or shade the area you want to cover will receive. You also need to know if you’ll be planting them in a drier or wetter part of the garden. Keep in mind the particular look you want to achieve, as well as the purpose of the groundcover. Choose something that complements the plants in the immediate vicinity and is suitable for the purpose; for example, mat-forming species between pavers or more rampant growers for under trees. Get advice from the experts at your local nursery.

“Once groundcovers are well-established, they will quickly cover an open piece of soil. In the process, they will also smother weeds, which means less maintenance. The plants will keep the soil cool, and if they are waterwise, you won’t need much water to keep them lush. The root system of groundcovers helps rainwater to seep into the soil rather than run off, as is usually the case with bare soil.”