Got some spots in your yard where nothing grows? Trust me, I’ve been there!
After killing way too many plants in those impossible areas, I finally found 7 tough plants that don’t just survive – they actually look amazing there.
Top Hardy Groundcovers for Challenging Spaces
Let me share my personal favorites that have transformed those troublesome areas in my garden into beautiful, low-maintenance spaces that practically take care of themselves!
1. Thyme: The Desert Warrior
You know those bone-dry spots where nothing seems to grow? That’s where thyme becomes your best friend. I discovered this little miracle worker when trying to beautify the pathway leading to our kids’ play area.
The fragrant leaves release the most amazing scent when the kids step on them. As a bonus, I can snip fresh sprigs for my weeknight chicken dinners!
What really sold me was how it handles the foot traffic between our stepping stones. My three energetic kids run across it daily, and it just keeps thriving.
2. Sedum: The Ultimate Survivor
If you’re looking for a plant that literally thrives on neglect, sedum is your answer. I first planted it in that impossible corner behind our garage where the hose doesn’t reach, and it’s been thriving for years.
The thick, juicy leaves come in so many beautiful colors and textures. My kids call them “alien plants” because they look so unique!
Even through our harshest winters and driest summers, my sedums keep looking fresh and vibrant. They’re perfect for those spots where you want something pretty but don’t have time for constant maintenance.
3. Hens and Chicks: The Tiny Tough Guys
These adorable succulents have become my go-to solution for filling gaps between pavers. My daughter loves watching the “mother” plant produce its tiny “babies” that spread to create natural patterns.
They’re practically indestructible – surviving both our scorching summers and freezing winters. The best part? I haven’t had to do anything except admire them!
4. Sweet Woodruff: The Shade Lover
Remember that dark, uninviting space under our massive oak tree? Sweet woodruff transformed it into a magical woodland garden that my kids absolutely adore.
In spring, it erupts with tiny white star-shaped flowers that look like a fairy garden. When the kids brush past it, it releases this sweet, vanilla-like fragrance that makes our whole garden feel enchanted.
The way it spreads is actually perfect – not too aggressive but enough to keep the weeds at bay. It’s like having a living mulch that does all the work for you!
5. Lamium: The Silver Beauty
If you’re dealing with deep shade like I was along our north-facing fence, lamium is a game-changer. Its silvery leaves literally light up those dark corners.
The purple flowers that appear in spring are just gorgeous against the metallic-looking foliage. My kids call it the “fairy silver” plant.
Just keep it away from high-traffic areas – I learned this the hard way when we initially planted it too close to our garden path. The stems are quite delicate and don’t bounce back from being stepped on.
6. Mondo Grass: The Elegant Solution
Looking for something that gives your garden that manicured look without the maintenance? Mondo grass is your answer. I use it to line our garden paths, and it looks perfectly neat year-round.
It’s been thriving in both the sunny spots and shady corners of our yard. Even during our driest spells, it keeps its deep green color.
The kids’ soccer balls regularly roll through it, and it bounces right back – now that’s what I call kid-proof!
7. Lamb’s Ear: The Tactile Treasure
This plant has become the star of our sensory garden! The soft, fuzzy leaves are impossible to resist touching – my youngest calls them “bunny ears.”
In summer, it sends up these lovely flower stalks that add height and interest to our garden. Though I often trim them back to keep the focus on those velvety leaves.
During intense summer heat, it might look a bit sad, but don’t panic like I did the first time – it bounces right back when temperatures cool down.