Dispose of paths and trails perfectly integrated into our garden It's possible thanks to the appropriate selection of groundcover plants, which not only provide a natural and harmonious appearance but also help with the care and maintenance of the land. If you have a path or walkway between stones, logs, cement, or any other material, you can transform it with Hardy and easy-care plants.
Benefits of using ground cover plants on paths and surrounding areas
Choosing suitable plants to cover paths and pathways offers very interesting advantages:
- Erosion reduction: The roots protect the soil from rain and wind.
- Less weed growth, making garden maintenance and care easier.
- Eco-friendly and attractive alternative to grass, without the need for constant pruning.
- Variety of textures, colors and aromas to personalize any space.
10 ideal plants for paths, trails and between stones
Depending on the aesthetics you are looking for and the prevailing climate in your area, you can choose between Several species that stand out for their adaptability, low growth and resistance to tramplingHere's a complete selection:
- sagina subulata (Scotch moss or Irish moss):
- Ideal for humid areas with a certain degree of shade.
- Creeping and compact growth (up to 5 cm), with hardly any maintenance.
- Develop small white flowers in spring which add ornamental beauty. It requires occasional weeding to maintain its purity.
- Frankenia:
- Very suitable plant for dry climates and well-drained soils.
- It does not tolerate excessive humidity, so it is recommended for warm and dry regions.
- Low and long-lasting coverage with minimal watering.
- creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum):
- It also provides a pleasant aroma when you step on it.
- It withstands traffic and drought well.
- It forms low, leafy carpets widely used in step gardening.
- Soleirolia soleirolii:
- Similar to moss, it creates dense carpets in shady areas without excessive frost.
- It regenerates well after moderate cold.
- Ophiopogon (Dragon grass):
- Available in various sizes, widely used in borders and paths due to its resistance and intense color.
- Asiatic jasmine (Trachelospermum):
- A very hardy perennial plant. It grows where other plants fail.
- It works in semi-shade to full sun and tolerates some salinity.
- Its flowers are fragrant and can bloom for much of the year.
- Isotoma (Laurentia):
- It withstands trampling well and quickly covers spaces between stones.
- With blue star-shaped flowers.
- It requires frequent watering and is sensitive to drought.
- Phlox subulata 'Emerald Blue':
- Resistant to drought and saline soils.
- Bee attraction and easy maintenance.
- It is recommended for well-drained and sunny soils.
- Dianthus 'Firewitch' (Carnation):
- Romantic and fragrant flowers. Blooms from summer to fall.
- Perfect for roadsides due to its size and durability.
- Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea':
- Lemon green leaves, very decorative.
- Suitable for humid areas and fertile soils; moderately invasive, requires control.
How to plant and care for plants along paths
To fill the gaps between stones and create green paths:
- Remove the plant from the pot and make a small gap between the stones.
- Place the plant ensuring contact with the soil and repeat the process in all the gaps.
- Water lightly at the beginning to facilitate rooting, paying attention to drainage and avoiding puddles.
- Performs light maintenance: Remove weeds and prune lightly if any species is invasive.
Most ground cover plants self-regenerate and grow horizontally, gradually covering spaces, even in difficult or poorly soiled areas. Many have the ability to self-sow, which promotes their natural spread. Remember that using mulch or mulch When planting you can protect them from frost or excessive heat.
Using appropriate plants on garden paths and walkways not only provides beauty and diversity, also facilitates the long term maintenanceWith proper selection and by following simple planting and care guidelines, any garden can look attractive and functional year-round, adapting to both sunny and shady areas and different soil types.
