Ground Cover
Question:
We have a large garden with a lot of grass but our main problem is the steep grass banks. What we would like is to plant them up with dens low ground cover but as we have such a large area the cost is putting us off, so we are still cutting the banks!
Answer:
I understand your problem with the steep bank and I hope you find my solution of help. There are two plants which immediately spring to mind. Firstly there is the Cotoneaster which spreads to 2 metres quite quickly and is extremely robust. Click on the name to see more information on Crocus. Secondly there is the Greater Periwinkle. This plant only spreads to 75cm but is very fast growing and has lovely lilac/blue flowers for most of the summer. Again click on the name for more details. When planting a large area it can be quite costly as you say. However, there are several companies who sell plants in bulk for just such a situation. They tend to be smaller than those you buy at a garden centre but they are a lot cheaper. I have found one website which has a whole section on ground cover plants at very good prices, take a look here http://www.hedging.co.uk/acatalog/Index_Ground_Cover_Plants_16.html I have never used them so can't offer any guarantees as to quality or service. Whatever you end up buying, can I suggest that you prepare the site very well before planting. Carefully remove the grass to ensure nothing is left behind. Leave for a couple of weeks to allow any weed seeds to germinate then pull these up or use a weedkiller. Before planting water the area well and cover with a weed suppressing membrane. Cut crosses in the fabric and plant through the holes. This will keep the weeds down whilst the plants are being established.
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