Creepers as a Mulch Alternative

Benefits of Creepers

• Creepers, such as vinca, grow low to the ground and spread over the soil. They shade out the soil over bare areas in the garden so weeds cannot grow. The plants also prevent soil erosion by anchoring the garden soil in place with their roots. The creepers can also benefit other plants growing in the bed by preventing moisture loss. The foliage of the creeping groundcover plants prevents moisture from evaporating so the soil remains cool and moist for a longer period.

Drawbacks

• Living mulch requires regular care just like any other plant in the garden. The creepers need regular watering and fertilization. They may also require pruning, depending on the plant variety. Creeping plants can choke out desirable landscape plants that they share a bed with, especially ivies and other quick-growing plant species. The amount of sun in the bed can affect the health of the creeping plant. Hostas and pachysandra do well in shaded beds, but may suffer with too much sunlight. Vinca can't tolerate shade and requires some light to thrive.

Planting Tips

• Avoid overcrowding when planting your creeping plants as a mulch. The plants spread quickly and can fill in the spaces between the plants in one to two years. Follow the spacing requirements on the plant tags to prevent overcrowding. You may need to apply a bark mulch temporarily for the first year or two after planting until the creepers fill in the empty space in the bed. Stagger each row of plants so they fill in the space between themselves more quickly.

Basic Upkeep

• Keep your creeping plants well weeded for the first one to two years after planting as the groundcover establishes in the bed. Weed competition can choke out the creepers until they are old enough to choke out the weeds. Most creepers require weekly watering. Choose varieties that require the same basic care as the other plants in the mulched bed. Prune creepers annually to maintain their size and to prevent them from overtaking other areas of the yard where mulch is undesirable.