Replace weeds with ground cover - Ask Extension
We have a dirt hill out back, that is covered with a variety of large weeds (see attached pictures). We would like to get rid of the weeds and plant ...
Knowledgebase
Replace weeds with ground cover #810297
Asked September 11, 2022, 10:52 AM EDT
We have a dirt hill out back, that is covered with a variety of large weeds (see attached pictures). We would like to get rid of the weeds and plant a low-growing, flowering ground cover. Once the farmer removes his corn, we were going to burn the weeds on the hill. How do we keep the weeds out and what type of ground cover should we plant? How many plants would we need to cover the hill? Approximate size = 20 feet wide, 6 feet deep, and 5 feet high
Union County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Sandra! What type of ground cover you plant depends on what you like. I have included several links to give you ideas of what to plant. As far as how many plants...again, depends on what you decide to plant. Keep in mind that you want to think of how big the plant will grow when it reaches maturity. For example, the Heath Aster should be planted 3 feet from other plants to give it room to spread. Do you want one type of plant or do you want a variety of ground covers? Do you want flowers that bloom in the spring, the summer or the fall...or things that cover all the seasons? Again, take a look at the links & see if something grabs your attention.
One of my favorites:
Aster ericoides (Heath Aster, White Aster, White Heath Aster) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (ncsu.edu)
Other optionsL
Groundcovers: Planting and Care | Home & Garden Information Center (clemson.edu)
Ground covers for gardens | UMN Extension
As for weed control while you wait for the plants to reach maturity. If you aren't planting this fall, once you've burned out the weeds, you can spread newspapers beneath a type of garden cloth. The idea that you will deprive any surviving seeds plants/seeds of sunlight & air.
You can spread weedkiller over the area either this year & next year. Keep in mind, when you apply weedkiller (a pre-emergent type) next year, you will have to wait before you plant your groundcover so that you don't cause any damage to those plants. Please keep in mind that when using chemicals, you MUST use PPE (personal protection equipment), i.e.: gloves, long sleeves & pants, shoes, eye protection & even a mask to make sure you don't inhale anything).
You can use seeds to fill in the empty spaces while waiting for the groundcover to grow. A personal favorite is zinnias.
Any other questions, please let us know. Enjoy your garden!!
One of my favorites:
Aster ericoides (Heath Aster, White Aster, White Heath Aster) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (ncsu.edu)
Other optionsL
Groundcovers: Planting and Care | Home & Garden Information Center (clemson.edu)
Ground covers for gardens | UMN Extension
As for weed control while you wait for the plants to reach maturity. If you aren't planting this fall, once you've burned out the weeds, you can spread newspapers beneath a type of garden cloth. The idea that you will deprive any surviving seeds plants/seeds of sunlight & air.
You can spread weedkiller over the area either this year & next year. Keep in mind, when you apply weedkiller (a pre-emergent type) next year, you will have to wait before you plant your groundcover so that you don't cause any damage to those plants. Please keep in mind that when using chemicals, you MUST use PPE (personal protection equipment), i.e.: gloves, long sleeves & pants, shoes, eye protection & even a mask to make sure you don't inhale anything).
You can use seeds to fill in the empty spaces while waiting for the groundcover to grow. A personal favorite is zinnias.
Any other questions, please let us know. Enjoy your garden!!
Thank you!!
Sandy
