Choose between Dichondra repens or grass To cover large areas of ground in your garden is a very personal decision. It is not that one alternative is better than another, because it depends on your tastes and needs.
To help you choose, let's take a closer look at these alternatives.
dichondra repens
Also known as mouse ear or dichondra, it is a perennial herbaceous plant that is used for upholster floors in gardens and parks.
It is characterized by having small, round, bright green leaves that form a dense, uniform tapestry.
Benefits of Dichondra repens
It is often chosen as an alternative to grass because it has these advantages:
- It is undemanding in terms of care. It does not grow as much as grass, so it needs less pruning. It is also more resistant to drought and does not require as much fertilizer.
- It can adapt well to areas with partial or total shade, which are spaces where grass has more difficulty growing.
- Has a natural and wild look which fits very well in gardens that seek a more wild touch.
Disadvantages of Dichondra repens
Of course, not everything is good, this plant also has a series of drawbacks:
- Es less resistant to continuous footsteps than some grass species. Therefore, it is not the most suitable choice for areas with a lot of traffic.
- Su growth is slow, so it took us a while to get that tapestry effect that looks so nice.
- It does not tolerate frost well., so it is not very suitable for areas with a cold climate.
Grass
Turf is a plant cover formed by a variety of grasses that are grown to achieve a green carpet effect. It is highly appreciated worldwide for its aesthetic beauty, because it prevents soil erosion and because it helps to cool the environment.
Benefits of grass
These are some of the characteristics for which it is so chosen in gardening:
- Very well resists footsteps, making it a good choice for areas such as parks or family gardens that see a lot of traffic.
- Grows quickly and is capable of covering large surfaces in a very short time.
- There are many varieties grass that adapt to different climates, soils and uses. This makes it easy to find the grass that best suits each need.
Disadvantages of grass
As you probably already know, not all that glitters is green. Grass has some drawbacks:
- To look your best you need a constant maintenance: pruning, watering, fertilizing, etc. This means investing more time and money in the garden.
- It does not adapt well to shaded areas. It can weaken and even die.
- It is more susceptible than other ground cover plants to pests already the appearance of weeds.
Dichondra repens or grass, which one should we choose?
To make a good choice, ask yourself the following questions:
Have pets?
It tienes For medium or small sized pets, Dichondra repens is a better option., because it is resistant to urine and is not toxic to animals.
However, if you have large dogs, who tend to dig more, grass is more resistant and also better able to withstand their footprints.
How much time can you dedicate to the garden?
If you want to have a beautiful garden without having to spend a lot of time and effort, dichondra is a good option for you, because it is less demanding in terms of care.
If you have more time then you could opt for grass. But keep in mind that you will have to mow it regularly, water it frequently and apply fertilizer periodically.
What kind of climate is there in your area?
If you live in a region with a warm and dry climate, Dichondra repens adapts well, because can tolerate a certain degree of droughtWhat it doesn't tolerate well is frost.
On the other hand, if the climate in your area is colder and more humid, grass will give you better results. However, look for a variety that is tolerant to cold.
How much shade is there in your garden?
If you have areas of full or partial shade this will not affect the dichondra, which will continue to grow normally. On the other hand, if you prefer grass, it is advisable that the entire garden receives a large number of hours of direct sunlight every day if you want it to look nice.
What use are you going to give to the garden?
If your garden is used purely for ornamental purposes and is not subject to much traffic, dichondra will give you good results. But if it is a area with a lot of use, then grass is a better option, because it is more resistant to continuous movement.
What aesthetic result are you looking for?
With Dichondra repens you get a more natural and wild aesthetic thanks to its small, round leaves. While the grass provides a more formal and careful appearance, forming a uniform and dense green tapestry.
The final choice is yours, but we recommend you choose:
- Dichondra repens. If you are looking for a low-maintenance garden, live in an area with a warm, dry climate, prefer a natural look, and the planting area does not get a lot of traffic.
- Grass. If you need a surface that can withstand constant foot traffic, you want a fast-growing green carpet, your area has a varied or sunny climate, and you prefer your garden to have a more formal appearance.
Another alternative is that combines both varieties in your garden. Dichondra repens in shaded areas with little traffic and on the lawn in sunny areas that get more use.
Dichondra repens or grass? You decide which is best for your garden or if you would rather combine both. The important thing is to create a green space that is completely to your liking and well adapted to the needs of your home. We are sure that you will make the right choice and have a practical and beautiful garden.