Deciding to add ground cover plants to your landscape offers many different benefits. You will have to decide on which benefits you want, and then choose a ground cover that can provide what you are looking for. Maybe you are looking for a way to fill in space, control erosion, or to create a landscape that requires less maintenance than a purely grass lawn. This article aims to serve as a starting point in your search for the perfect ground cover plants. Here are some ground cover plants that will thrive in the Pacific Northwest. Beach Strawberry (Fragaria chilioensis) A native of the Pacific Coast regions, this plant is perfect for gardens and landscapes in the Northwest. This plant will provide visual appeal as it flowers in both winter and spring. Other benefits include the plant's low maintenance, ability to control erosion, and its potential to attract pollinators. This plant will do best in full to partial sun areas of your landscape. Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) For a space in need of fast ground cover, bugleweed is a great choice. Typically, this plant will provide a carpet of blue-flowering and evergreen ground cover. This is a very stout species that will tolerate many conditions but prefers partial to total shade and moist soil. Benefits include weed control, erosion control, beautification, and attraction of pollinators. Keep in mind that this plant will require maintenance as it is fast growing and can overrun other portions of your landscape. Scotch Moss (Sagina Subulata) Scotch moss is a lush green ground cover. This is perfect as a replacement for grass and can withstand light to moderate foot traffic. Scotch moss will thrive in partial to full sun and needs moisture in the soil. If you are looking for a grass replacement that provides low maintenance and will brighten up your landscape, look no further. Inside-Out Flower (Vancouveria hexandra)
When not flowering, this plant is similar in look to ivy. While this plant grows slowly, it establishes itself with a thick matting which can help to prevent weeds in your landscape. The inside-out flower craves partial to full shade and moist soil, however, one benefit of this ground cover option is its ability to withstand periods of drought. During the late spring and early summer, this plant will provide flowering stems that rise above the lower evergreen leaves. This is by no means an exhaustive list of ground cover options. Call today, and the Graham Landscape & Design team can help you choose the best option for your landscape! 541-729-8029
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There are many options when it comes to adding hardscape features to your landscape. This blog series will focus on a different landscape feature each time and will help you determine the best materials to use for each type of project. In this first blog of the series, we will explore the different options for decking materials. There are many options, and this article should help you make a more informed choice when you are ready to pick your materials.
Wood Out of all the options available, wood is the most traditional deck material. In general, wood is the least expensive option in the lineup and provides the most natural look. Sunny days won’t be as much of a problem with wood as it does not absorb as much heat as the other choices. On the downside, wood is the material that requires the most maintenance to ensure longevity. Additionally, availability and price are subject to change based on where you live. Composites Composites are made from a mixture of plastics and recycled wood materials. People choose composite decking for its durability, weight, and overall low maintenance needs. Although looks have come a long way, composites still have a reputation for looking “fake.” Over time, age will show and without proper reinforcement composite decks are subject to sagging. Another thing to consider is the price which can be 60-70% more than traditional wood decking. Plastics One of the best parts about plastic decking is the environmental aspect. Much of the material is made with other recycled plastics. This material will stand the test of time and requires little maintenance. Color fade was once a factor; however, production methods have come a long way in preventing this eyesore of a problem. Negatives of this material include a need for extra structural support and its un-natural look. Additionally, unlike wood, this type of decking is extremely hot when under direct sunlight and can make the space unusable. When choosing which materials to use for your deck, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and choose which material is best for your specific situation. For more information about decking materials, please give us a call. The professionals at Graham Landscape & Design are here to make sure you have the tools to make the best decision for your home. 541-729-8029 |
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