A gardening expert said that planting ground cover plants can suppress weeds while also providing year-round greenery – and they require little maintenance

While weeds might simply be plants growing in the wrong place, if left unchecked, they can rapidly dominate.

Instead of resorting to chemicals to eradicate weeds, local gardening guru Chris Ware suggests a simpler solution that doesn’t require chemical or homemade weed killers.

Mr Ware, a gardening expert from Climbing Wild Gardeners, advocates for the use of ground cover plants to suppress weeds and provide year-round greenery.

He elaborated: “With ground cover plants, you’re not just decorating your garden-you’re giving it a natural defence against weeds.”

He added: “By forming a dense canopy over the soil, ground cover plants block sunlight and prevent weed seeds from sprouting.”

The gardening aficionado also mentioned that certain types of ground cover plants can flourish during the cooler months.

He recommended three ground cover plants to keep weeds at bay in your garden: Glandora prostrata, Bergenia purpurascens and Rhododendron Bloombux.

He stated: “Glandora prostrata, also known as ‘Heavenly Blue,’ is a hardy evergreen that offers great weed suppression while maintaining a lush, green look all year round.

He continued: “It’s a fantastic choice for well-draining loamy or sandy soils. If your soil is heavier and tends to retain water, try raising the bed or consider alternatives like Bergenia purpurascens or Rhododendron Bloombux.”

Ground cover plants are a boon for gardeners as they prevent weeds, shield soil from erosion, boost moisture retention, and offer sanctuary to wildlife, all with minimal upkeep required. Unlike typical garden flora, these hardy varieties demand less attention.

Before opting for ground cover vegetation, it’s crucial for green thumbs to consider the unique aspects of their patch – soil composition and sunlight exposure are key factors in picking the most appropriate species.

Mr Ware echoed this sentiment, saying: “By suppressing weeds naturally, you’ll save time, effort, and money in the long run-and enjoy a thriving garden year-round.”