In the Pacific Northwest (PN), where lush landscapes meet varying climates, selecting the right ground cover options can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a hardy lawn alternative or something beautiful between pathways, there is a multitude of options. Fall is a great time to think about what you want to plant or to divide up your current plantings to take up empty spaces in your garden. 

Why Use Ground Covers in the Pacific Northwest?

Ground covers are more than just a pretty face in your yard. Here’s why they’re a smart, sustainable landscaping choice:

  • Low Maintenance: Reduce mowing, weeding, and watering.
  • Erosion Control: Help stabilize sloped areas and prevent soil loss.
  • Biodiversity Boost: Support native wildlife and pollinators.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Add texture, seasonal color, and visual contrast.

When to Plant Ground Covers?

Fall is the perfect time to plant new ground covers or divide existing ones. The cooler weather and increased rainfall create ideal conditions for roots to establish before the next growing season.

Top Ground Cover Options for the Pacific Northwest

Here are some of the best-performing ground covers for PNW gardens:

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

  • Why It Works: Forms a dense, fragrant mat that’s both beautiful and practical.
  • Best For: Sunny locations, lawn replacement, between stepping stones
  • Benefits: Drought-tolerant, aromatic, tolerates light foot traffic
Ground covers Thyme

2. Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

  • Best For: Erosion control, native landscaping
  • Benefits: Evergreen, pink flowers, red berries
  • Why It Works: Thrives in well-drained soils and offers year-round visual interest.
ground covers kinnikinnick

3. Irish Moss (Sagina subulata)

  • Best For: Shady or partially shady areas
  • Benefits: Creates a lush, green carpet; soft to walk on
  • Why It Works: Perfect for filling spaces between stones without high maintenance.
ground covers irish moss

4. Sedum (Stonecrop)

  • Best For: Sunny spots, rock gardens, borders
  • Benefits: Low water needs, colorful foliage
  • Why It Works: Offers diversity in color and form, though avoid in high foot-traffic areas.
ground covers Sedum (Stonecrop)

5. Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)

  • Best For: Shady or sunny areas, erosion-prone zones
  • Benefits: Fast-spreading, blue flower spikes, low maintenance
  • Why It Works: Great for covering large spaces quickly with vibrant color.
ground covers Bugleweed

5. Japanese Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis)

  • Best For: Dense shade, under trees
  • Benefits: Evergreen foliage, temperature-tolerant
  • Why It Works: Excellent for suppressing weeds and tolerating extremes.
ground cover Japanese Pachysandra

7. Leptinella (Brass Buttons)

  • Best For: Pathways, borders, ground fill
  • Benefits: Fern-like foliage, hardy in sun or partial shade
  • Why It Works: Forms a delicate yet durable mat, ideal for tight garden spaces.
ground covers Laptinella

Choosing the Right Ground Cover for Your Garden

When selecting a ground cover, consider the following:

  • Sunlight exposure (full sun, part shade, or full shade)
  • Soil drainage and moisture levels
  • Foot traffic levels
  • Aesthetic preferences (flowering vs. evergreen, color, texture)

Need Help Choosing the Best Ground Cover?

The expert team at Swick’s Landscaping is here to help you design and plant a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape tailored to the Pacific Northwest climate.

Schedule your free consultation today and transform your yard with the perfect ground cover plants!

Any questions? contact us today

Swick’s Landscaping Expert Team

info@swicks.net | 604-315-8592

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