What would you do with this hill?

[Cecilia_Rose]

If you can keep them contained Ajuga and Creeping Buttercup make nice ground covers. The nice part is that they grow low to the ground in a dense mat so they can get a haircut and still look nice. They have interesting leaves so even when they aren't flowering they still have some interest. The bad part is that both are extremely invasive and they don't share space well with other smaller plants.

My close in wild beds are planted with Ajuga . Its crimson leaves contrast nicely with my daffodils and other bulbs. Later the Hostas, Liriope, and Sedum will be up. The creeping Buttercup is a little taller so I use it along the fence row with shrubs and bulbs. This setup works for me. Its easy care and in the fall I just mow it and rake it off.









ajuga ground cover - Bing images


creeping buttercup - Bing images

[southernnaturelover]

Originally Posted by carolinadreamin

Well I had thought I wanted low ground covers so we could see the beautiful woods but I am beginning to feel that something bigger would be best for solid soil erosion prevention. Plus I have to admire a shrub like azalea that are visible all over town this time of year, and often seen beneath pines such as we have.

Whatever is planted I know it will take a long time to see it completed. And the issue of getting around large shrubs is worth thinking about. I know it will become impossible to get around once they mature. Maybe we would not need to very often.

I considered liriope but in a way thought it didn't suit a woodland setting as well as the vinca. But thank you for offering your ideas!

I definately recommend Oakleaf hydrangea, it s wonderful shrub native to Southern forests, and if you can find it, Mountain Laurel.

As for azaleas, I have so many here that I've forgotten the names of many of them, I know I have 'Pride of Mobile', 'Formosa', 'GG Gerbing', 'George Tabor', 'Girard's Fuschia', 'Pink Ruffles', and 'Delaware White'. The Formosa is definately the most vigorous.

Blueberry bushes would probably do fine there as well. Maybe even mix in some small shade tolerant trees like Redbud or Little Gem magnolia.