Types of Groundcovers
Popular varieties of groundcovers include Asystasia,Viola, Penny royal and Plectranthus for your shady areas. The Sun loving best sellers are Erigeron, Felecia, Gazania and Convolvulus. If you are looking for flat growing options, our Dymondia, Lippia, Mazus or Corsican Mint will fit the bill. Our Grasses range from Indigenous Thatches to the ever-popular Dwarf Mondo grass. From the colourful variegated leaves of Dianella an Acorus to the sleek elegant deep green of Liriope “Evergreen Giant” Grasses range from 12cm pots up to 20L bags if you are looking for Specimen plants.
Grasses & Ground Cover Care
Light:
Grasses and ground covers in Cape Town generally thrive in full sun (6-8 hours daily). Varieties like, Gazania, Lampranthus and Dymondia require plenty of sunlight for healthy growth. Some ground covers, such as Asystasia or Plectranthus, can tolerate partial shade, making them suitable for areas with some cover.
Watering:
Check soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering. Grasses and ground cover typically prefer well-drained soil. Ensure that pots or garden beds have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth and do so in the early morning to reduce evaporation.
Temperature:
Grasses and ground covers in Cape Town do well in a temperature range of 18-24°C. Most varieties tolerate heat but may need some shade or protection from extreme sun during the hottest part of the day, especially in summer, to prevent stress and sunburn.
Fertilising:
Use a balanced fertiliser during the growing season (spring and summer), following the recommended dosage. Apply fertiliser every 6-8 weeks to support healthy growth. For ground covers, you may also use a slow-release fertiliser to promote steady development.
Pruning:
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining tidy growth. Remove dead or damaged leaves from grasses and ground covers to promote healthy, fresh growth. Grasses like Dianella may need thinning to remove dead leaves while grasses like Fountain Grass benefit from cutting back in late winter or early spring.
Pest Management:
Monitor for pests such as Mealybugs, Aphids, or Snails. Treat promptly with organic insecticides to prevent damage. Regular inspections and early intervention can help keep grasses and ground covers healthy and pest-free.
