We bought a home last August and it has a decent size yard that's located in a very wooded, shady area. Most of the ground is just like natural forest floor weeds and stuff. I have two young kids so would like some sort of attractive "lawn like" covering they can play in and that will withstand moderate foot traffic. I was looking at some possible shade friendly lawn alternatives and came across the following: 1. Irish moss 2. Blue star creeper 3. miniature brass buttons Have any experience using any of these for that purpose or have any suggestions?
I have a few articles that may give you good alternatives:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/shade/ground-covers-for-shade.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/lawn-care/lgen/shade-tolerant-grass.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-7
We live in a new build and are looking for a couple of trees for a few reasons.... 1. Privacy so something with a fairly good canopy all year round but only leaves so at the top. 2. Our garden is quite wet so something that likes this type of ground and will possibly dry it out a bit. Many thanks ?
Although I am not familiar with your part of the world, from my limited research I see that it doesn't get hot or cold. That will limit what kind of trees that you can plant in your area to those that don't require hot or cold dormancies. Magnolia trees can, potentially, suit your needs here, but it can be difficult to find trees that tolerate wet feet.
If you are able to include trees that are not evergreen then this article will help you to find something suited for that area: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/wet-soil-trees.htm
Hello! We have been struggling to find ground cover or other plants that will thrive in a certain area outside our home. Here's a description of the area and challenges: - about 6' x 30' area that runs between our driveway and our neighbor's driveway - there are several established pine trees planted in the area - there are some hostas planted that do okay, but otherwise, the area below/between the pine trees is empty...and ugly (dirt/soil, full of pine needles) - I'd say the soil is dry, acidic, and probably a bit sandy We were hoping to find some ground cover to fill in the entire area that would be lower maintenance as well. If there are other plants, flowers, or shrubs that we can mix in with ground cover, we'd be open to that too. We've just had trouble finding plants that survive and actually grow in that area. Any help with options would be appreciated! Thanks!
This is an unfortunate problem. Pine trees drop needles in order to provide the most suitable environment for its self. This also makes the environment very unsuited for most plants. It can be hard to find much of anything that will grow under these, but you can try any form of Nandina. These will naturally grow under pines, and will do fine here.
Here is more information on acid loving plants, which will be most suited for planting under these trees: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/acid-loving-plants.htm
I live in Central FL near the coast zone 9b and am looking for a FAST growing plant to grow as a hedge 6 ft+ tall for privacy from a nosey next door neighbor. The area that it would be planted in is partial sun/shade also have a dog, so non-toxic is needed.
For fast-growing privacy screening consider bamboo. There are a number of other plants that you can consider as well. Here's an article that offers more information on lots of fast-growing options:
Which plants are best for east Texas with a little sun - mostly shade - and to cascade down a retaining wall. Need deer resistant and would like attract hummingbirds and bees. Has sandy soil. Any suggestions???
These articles will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-8/zone-8-perennial-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-8/zone-8-sun-tolerant-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-8/zone-8-deer-resistant-plants.htm
I want to screen a neighbour's window and need a fast growing climber plant - can you recommend one please?
These articles have some suggestions for UK:
http://www.gardenseeker.co.uk/climbing_plants/fast-growing-climbers-uk.html
I live in the San Antonio area. I would like a fast growing ground cover that needs little water when established, can deal with some frost, and is green most (of not all) of the year Thank you
This article will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-7/zone-7-evergreen-groundcovers.htm