WASHINGTON GARDENER
Groundcover Revolution
BY KATHY JENTZ
The Definition of a Groundcover What is a groundcover? A narrow definition of a groundcover would be a plant that spreads across the ground and only grows a few inches high. By those restrictions, only those creeping, mat-forming plants would qualify. The broader definition is of any plant that sufficiently covers the soil in a fairly dense manner. Groundcovers are characteristically perennials, though there are a number of low-growing shrubs that qualify. I’d expand that defi - nition to also include self-sowing annuals, sprawling vines, and ornamental grasses.
Groundcovers are nature’s carpet that clothe the soil in a variety of green array and make this flowering world all the brighter and
more beautiful. ~ Daniel J. Foley
Why Replace Turfgrass Lawns Despite their appearance, our lawns are not the “green” expans - es we think they are. Sure, they are better than concrete, but barely. In many instances, turfgrass lawns are so compacted and dense that storm water is hardly absorbed – causing most of it to run off into nearby streets and pollute local waterways with the herbicides, pesti- cides, and fertilizers that are applied to the turfgrass. Consider all the maintenance costs of a turfgrass lawn. Frequent mowing, fertilizing, weeding, watering, re-seeding, edging, and aer - ating not only eat up your personal resources of time and money, but it can be harsh on the environment. Even using all electric equipment and organic methods requires a far greater use of resources to main- tain a “healthy” green lawn in comparison to non-turf groundcover alternatives. Without your constant care (or that of a hired service), a yard of turfgrass quickly becomes a drab brown mess. In the typical yard situ- ated in a temperate climate, turfgrass turns to straw during the height of summer and then goes dormant again in the winter. In harsher climates, turfgrass is spray-painted or dyed green or replaced with a plastic imitation carpet. All of this effort done with the goal of having that “perfect” lawn. If you are reading this, it is likely that turfgrass lawns are some- thing you’ve struggled with. Perhaps you are weary of battling en - croaching weeds and attacking insects. You likely are leery of using
Making Yr Best Choices Golden Ragwort Pflox
Astrology and Tarot Consultations Available Via Zoom or Telephone Classes and Workshops Online or In Person
For more information, go to www.mistykuceris.com misty@EnhanceOneself.com 703.354.4076
Misty Kuceris, Reiki Master & Pathways Columnist
30—PATHWAYS—Spring 23
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator