The Best Groundcovers for Problem Areas in Your Yard

Every homeowner dreams of a lush, balanced yard—but problem areas like steep slopes, shady corners, and dry or soggy patches often stand in the way. Traditional turf grass struggles in these tricky spots, leaving bare soil, weeds, or erosion. That’s where groundcovers come in.

Groundcovers are low-growing plants that spread across the soil to create a living carpet. They’re more than just decorative—they’re functional problem-solvers that help with erosion control, weed suppression, and soil stabilization. Whether you’re searching for drought-resistant groundcovers or groundcovers for slopes, the right plants can completely transform your outdoor space into a thriving, low-maintenance landscape.

Why Choose Groundcovers?

Groundcovers aren’t just a substitute for grass—they’re a landscaping strategy. Here’s why they’re worth considering:

• Erosion Control Groundcovers: Deep roots hold soil in place on slopes, preventing rain runoff from washing it away.

• Weed Suppression: Dense foliage shades the soil and prevents weed seeds from germinating.

• Low Maintenance: Unlike turf, they require little mowing or watering once established.

• Year-Round Beauty: Many varieties provide evergreen coverage, seasonal blooms, or colorful foliage.

• Sustainability: Non-invasive groundcovers help preserve local ecosystems while reducing chemical inputs.

Groundcovers for Shade

Shady corners can be difficult to fill, especially where grass refuses to grow. These shade tolerant groundcovers thrive where others struggle:

• Chinese Violet Cress (Orychophragmus violaceus): A spring-blooming groundcover with vibrant violet flowers and bright green foliage. It spreads quickly, making it ideal for adding early-season color to shady or partially sunny problem areas while staying non-invasive and low-maintenance.

• Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’: It offers shimmering silver foliage accented with tiny blue flowers that brighten dim spaces. This combination not only adds visual interest but also helps lift and illuminate areas where other plants struggle to thrive.

• Liriope (Lilyturf): A reliable, hardy choice that tolerates partial to full shade while forming a dense mat of foliage. Its durability and adaptability make it a go-to option for filling in tough spots where grass won’t grow.

Tips for Planting in Shade:

• Space plants 1–2 feet apart to allow spread.

• Enrich soil with organic matter to improve moisture retention.

• Keep an eye on weeds in the first year until groundcover fills in.

Groundcovers for Slopes and Full Sun

Sunny slopes are notorious for erosion problems, but the right groundcovers can stabilize soil while adding color and texture.

• Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata): Spreads quickly and blankets slopes with spring blooms. Excellent for erosion control.

• Creeping Thyme: Fragrant, hardy, and tolerant of foot traffic—perfect near pathways.

• Sedum (Stonecrop): A drought-tolerant succulent that thrives in full sun, with striking foliage and seasonal flowers.

Tips for Slopes:

• Plant in staggered rows to maximize soil coverage.

• Use mulch during the establishment phase to retain moisture.

• Water daily until roots anchor, then reduce to weekly.

Drought-Resistant Groundcovers

In dry climates, drought-resistant groundcovers offer beauty without high water demands.

• Blue Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides): Thrives in well-drained soil, offering vivid blue flowers.

• Creeping Juniper: A tough evergreen that withstands heat and drought while suppressing weeds.

• Ice Plant (Delosperma): A colorful succulent groundcover with vibrant blooms and excellent drought tolerance.

Water-Saving Tip: Group drought-resistant plants together in “xeriscape zones” to simplify watering.

Groundcovers for Wet Soil

Not all problem areas are dry—some yards suffer from soggy soil. These groundcovers tolerate moisture and prevent muddy patches:

• Black Mondo Grass: Striking black foliage makes a statement while tolerating variable conditions.

• Brunnera varieties: Handle moisture well while offering ornamental leaves and flowers.

• Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia): Excellent in damp areas, providing chartreuse foliage.

Choosing Non-Invasive Groundcovers

Some groundcovers (like ivy and periwinkle) spread aggressively and become invasive. Instead, choose non-invasive groundcovers that are eco-friendly:

• Sweet Woodruff: A fragrant, shade-tolerant option that’s non-invasive.

• Wild Ginger: A native groundcover that spreads gently without choking out other plants.

• Native Sedges: Adapted to local conditions, providing soil stability without ecosystem disruption.

How to Transform Problem Areas with Groundcovers

1. Assess Your Yard: Identify whether your problem area is dry, wet, shady, or sloped.

2. Match Plant to Problem: Choose plants based on tolerance—sun, shade, moisture, or drought.

3. Prepare the Soil: Add compost, adjust drainage, and remove weeds before planting.

4. Plant for Coverage: Space appropriately and stagger rows on slopes.

5. Maintain Wisely: Water consistently during the first year, then reduce as plants establish.

Downloadable Resource

Download Our Free Guide: “Top 10 Groundcovers for Problem Areas in Your Yard”

This printable checklist includes:

• Plant recommendations for shade, slopes, drought, and wet soil.

• Maintenance tips for long-term success.

• A quick-reference chart for choosing the right groundcover.

Ready to turn your yard’s toughest spots into thriving landscapes?

ShrubHub makes it easy to shop for erosion control groundcovers, drought-resistant groundcovers, and shade tolerant groundcovers online.
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FAQs About Groundcovers

Q1: What are the best groundcovers for erosion control on slopes?
A1: Creeping Phlox, Creeping Juniper, and Sedum are excellent choices for stabilizing soil and preventing runoff.

Q2: Are there shade tolerant groundcovers that suppress weeds?
A2: Yes—Hosta ‘Halcyon,’ Brunnera, and Liriope all thrive in shade while minimizing weeds.

Q3: What are some drought-resistant groundcovers for hot, dry areas?
A3: Dwarf Plumbago, Ice Plant, and Creeping Thyme are hardy, low-water options.

Q4: How do I avoid invasive groundcovers?
A4: Avoid ivy and periwinkle. Instead, choose non-invasive natives like Sweet Woodruff or Wild Ginger.

Q5: Do groundcovers need a lot of maintenance?
A5: Once established, most groundcovers are low-maintenance, requiring little watering or mowing.

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