What is the function of ground covers in landscaping?

Ground covers serve a vital function in landscaping primarily by preventing soil erosion and suppressing weeds. When planted densely, ground covers create a solid mat of foliage that stabilizes the soil, reducing the risk of erosion caused by rain or wind. This is particularly important on slopes and areas prone to runoff.

In addition to erosion control, ground covers compete with weeds for sunlight, nutrients, and water, effectively suppressing their growth. By shading the soil, they can hinder the germination and survival of weed seeds, leading to a healthier garden or landscape. Using ground covers in appropriate areas not only protects the soil integrity but also contributes to the overall maintenance of landscaped spaces by minimizing the need for herbicides or manual weeding efforts.

While ground covers can provide color and other benefits like attracting pollinators or enhancing soil fertility indirectly, their most critical and defining role lies in erosion prevention and weed suppression.