Groundcover for Denver

Question

I live in Denver, Colorado. About 1/2 the grass in my yard isn’t doing well due to having too much clay in the soil. I can water okay, but I think the clay is retarding any growth. I am thinking of Xeriscaping these areas. Any recommendations for groundcover? Would I still have to add a couple inches of good topsoil before groundcover or is there a way to amend the soil?

Answer 1

Try ajuga or English ivy. Both of these ground covers do well in heavy clay soils. These articles should also help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/xeriscape/xeriscape-landscape-design-ideas-for-clay-soil.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm