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Best Ground Cover For Texas (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to protect your Texas garden or landscaping, selecting the right ground cover is essential. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to determine what features are most critical to find the right fit for your space. From soil type and light exposure to water and maintenance requirements, there are a few key factors to keep in mind as you begin your search for the best ground cover.

Before making a purchase, consider the climate and region where you live. Some varieties, like succulents, may be better suited for drier climates or low-water landscapes, while others may thrive in more humid conditions. Think about the size of the area you need to cover, as well as any shading, soil type, or other factors that may affect growth. Additionally, consider if you want a ground cover that is perennial or annual, and that requires low or high maintenance.

If you’re trying to decide which ground cover is right for your Texas garden or landscaping, ask yourself these questions: Which ground cover works best for my soil type? Does the area have partial shade, full sun, or all shade? Do I need a ground cover that can withstand drought, heavy rain, or extreme temperatures? What type of maintenance is required, and how much time do I have to invest in upkeep? By keeping these and other factors in mind, you can be sure to find the perfect ground cover to keep your Texas garden looking great year-round.

10 Best Ground Cover For Texas

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for erosion control, ground cover, lawn alternative, pasture, forage, and more.
2
This plant is ideal for use as Asian ground cover, fully rooted with soil, adding beautiful foliage to your outdoor space.
3
Ideal for use as a shade-loving evergreen ground cover.
4
Ideal for creating low-maintenance ground cover and alternative lawn options in warm-season climates.
5
This product is ideal for outdoor family swimming and includes all necessary equipment for a complete setup.
6
This product is ideal for landscaping and ground cover with its purple creeping thyme seeds, providing approximately 8000 seeds.
7
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
8
The product is ideal for creating an above ground swimming pool with a filter pump, ladder, and cover.
9
It is ideal for cleaning in-ground swimming pools up to 50 feet with intense waterline scrubbing power and a large filter basket.
10
This product is ideal for planting and growing wild creeping thyme in large quantities.
Ideal for erosion control, ground cover, lawn alternative, pasture, forage, and more.
This plant is ideal for use as Asian ground cover, fully rooted with soil, adding beautiful foliage to your outdoor space.
Ideal for creating low-maintenance ground cover and alternative lawn options in warm-season climates.
This product is ideal for outdoor family swimming and includes all necessary equipment for a complete setup.
This product is ideal for landscaping and ground cover with its purple creeping thyme seeds, providing approximately 8000 seeds.
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
The product is ideal for creating an above ground swimming pool with a filter pump, ladder, and cover.
It is ideal for cleaning in-ground swimming pools up to 50 feet with intense waterline scrubbing power and a large filter basket.
This product is ideal for planting and growing wild creeping thyme in large quantities.

1. Ecogrounds Clover: Versatile Erosion Control & Groundcover Seed.

White Dutch Clover Seed is a versatile perennial that serves several purposes. It is an ideal choice for erosion control, lawn replacement, food plots, green manure crops, pasture mixtures, and ground cover. This seed is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 10, and it can be grown in different parts of the country. White clover is known to improve soil nitrogen levels by extracting nitrogen from the air and fixing it in the soil.

White Dutch Clover Seed is an excellent alternative to traditional lawns. It is low-growing and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for those who want a beautiful lawn without the hassle of mowing and watering. The seed can be sown by broadcasting it on prepared soil and lightly raking it in. It should be kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 14 days with temperatures of 65-70°F.

This seed is an excellent choice for those who want to attract deer to their food plots. It is also a great cover crop that can help prevent soil erosion. The seeding rate for White Dutch Clover Seed is 1/4 to 1/2 pound per 1,000 square feet or 8 to 10 pounds per acre. With its versatility and ease of growth, White Dutch Clover Seed is an excellent addition to any lawn or garden.

Pros

  • Can be used for multiple purposes such as erosion control, food plots, green manure crops, and ground cover
  • Improves soil nitrogen levels
  • Ideal alternative to traditional lawns
  • Low maintenance
  • Attracts deer to food plots
  • Prevents soil erosion
  • Easy to grow
  • Suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 10

2. Asiatic Jasmine Minima – 60 Live Plants – Asian Ground Cover Fully Rooted With Soil

Trachelospermum asiaticum, commonly known as Asiatic Jasmine, is an evergreen, vine-like woody plant that is grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage. Originally native to Japan and Korea, this low-maintenance groundcover is widely used in landscapes due to its hardiness and drought tolerance. It is perfect for those who want an attractive garden without much effort. In shady areas, it adds texture and variation to the garden.

Asiatic Jasmine is an ideal plant for mass plantings and turfgrass alternatives. Once established, it requires very little maintenance to keep it looking nice. It suppresses weed growth and can tolerate many growing conditions. It requires little mowing, but occasional trimming of its edges is recommended. The plant should be used in low traffic areas as it does not withstand foot traffic well. It is salt-tolerant and can be grown in coastal areas.

This versatile plant can even be grown in containers and hanging baskets. However, it should be noted that too much water, sun, or fertilizer can make it aggressive and unruly. It is easier to control when neglected.

Pros

  • Hardy and drought-tolerant
  • Low maintenance plant
  • Ideal for mass plantings and turfgrass alternatives
  • Suppresses weed growth
  • Salt-tolerant
  • Can be grown in containers and hanging baskets

Cons

  • – Does not withstand foot traffic well
  • – Can become aggressive and unruly with too much water, sun, or fertilizer

3. Dwarf Mondo Grass Qty 80 Live Plants Shade Loving Evergreen Ground Cover Ophiopogon Japonicus Nanus

The Dwarf Mondo Grass is a slow-growing evergreen that is only half the size of other varieties, reaching a height of 4-6 inches and a width of 4-6 inches. Its lush, dark green grass-like clumps make it an excellent choice as an edging plant or for use in rock gardens and groundcovers. It is also striking when planted en masse in the landscape.

This ornamental grass is low-maintenance and requires a regular watering schedule to establish a mature root system. Once established, it only needs occasional watering, except during droughts when regular watering is necessary. To maintain a well-groomed appearance, it is recommended to prune old foliage.

While similar in appearance to Lilyturf (Liriope muscari), the Dwarf Mondo Grass has thinner leaves and a finer texture. This evergreen is widely used in rock gardens, seashore plantings, borders, and groundcovers. For an impressive collection of plants, check out Florida Foliage.

Pros

  • Slow-growing and easy to maintain.
  • Excellent as an edging plant or for use in rock gardens and groundcovers.
  • Lush and dense with dark green foliage.
  • Striking in mass plantings in the landscape.
  • Widely used in rock gardens, seashore plantings, borders, and groundcovers.
  • A great choice for those who prefer low-maintenance plants.

Cons

  • – May require more frequent watering during droughts.

4. Warm Season Ground Cover Alternative – 5 Lb

Dichondra Repens is a fast-growing ground cover plant that is easy to establish from seeds. It has a creeping growth habit and circular leaves, and is a warm-season plant that grows best in USDA Zones 7-11. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit and still maintain its striking green color with only slight leaf browning. This plant is a great alternative to traditional lawn grasses, as it only grows up to 2-3 inches tall and does not need to be mowed. It has broad, almost circular leaves that resemble clover and, when mowed low, establishes a thick, dense carpet look. Dichondra Repens has a bright green color and a soft feel underfoot, making it a popular choice for landscaping areas with no maintenance required. It is also commonly known as Kidney Weed, Dichondra Pony Foot, or Lawn Leaf.

This plant is versatile and can be used in many ground cover situations where normal grasses may not thrive. It is perfect for areas where low maintenance is desired, and it can be mowed for an even, smooth finish when used in lawn situations. To maintain the nicest appearance of Dichondra Repens, it is recommended to mow it approximately every two weeks during the summer months at a height of 1 1/2 – 2 inches. During the winter months, it can be mowed as low as 3/4 of an inch.

Pros

  • Easy to establish from seed
  • Warm-season plant that can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Good alternative to traditional lawn grasses
  • Grows up to 2-3 inches tall and does not require mowing
  • Has a bright green color and a soft feel underfoot
  • Versatile and can be used in many ground cover situations
  • Low maintenance required

Cons

  • – May not thrive in cooler climates
  • – Not suitable for areas where a taller grass is desired

5. Steel Pro Max Above Ground Pool Set.

The Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Pool is a perfect way to enjoy summer. It is designed with an extremely rigid, oval-shaped frame that guarantees increased strength and durability. The pool frames are coated with a rust and corrosion-resistant material that protects the pool from UV and abrasion damage. Additionally, a 3-ply PVC support band surrounds the pool for extra stability to the pool wall. This pool is made to last and will provide endless summer fun to kids and adults alike.

This above ground pool is constructed with durable yet lightweight PVC material that ensures structural integrity to your pool. It's tear-resistant and won't fade over time due to sun exposure. The Seal & Lock System secures each joint connection, making it resistant to bending or leaking. The pin-clip design also ensures each joint connects with ease. This pool is easy to assemble, and no tools are required to install it in your backyard. A flow-controlled drain valve provides a simple solution for emptying the excess water. You can be ready to have hot summer fun in minutes with this pool.

The Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Pool is perfect for anyone looking for an affordable and durable pool option. It is a great way to enjoy summer and create endless memories with loved ones. With its superior frame design and patented pool frame, this pool promises to be sturdy and long-lasting. So, go ahead and take a dip in this pool and have a blast!

Pros

  • Rigid, oval-shaped frame ensures increased strength and durability
  • Coated with rust and corrosion-resistant material to protect against UV and abrasion damage
  • Constructed with durable yet lightweight PVC material that ensures structural integrity
  • Seal & Lock System secures each joint connection, making it resistant to bending or leaking
  • Easy to assemble; no tools required

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for large families or groups

6. Purple Thyme – Premium Ground Cover Seeds

For those looking to add an adaptable ground cover to their landscape, the Creeping Thyme (Thymus Serpyllum) is a great option. This perennial herb is a popular choice for its ability to over-winter well in zones 4-9 and can handle moderate foot traffic. As a dwarf ground cover, it is often used to line flower beds or fill gaps between pavers on walkways.

With a net weight of 0.05 oz, this small packet contains approximately 8,000 tiny seeds that can cover a large area. When planting, it is important to press the seeds into the soil rather than covering them. Ensuring good contact between the seeds and soil will increase germination rates. It is best to sow seeds directly outdoors between May and August when temperatures are consistently in the high 60s or above. Dividing established plantings can also be done in March and April.

This low maintenance ground cover can make an excellent alternative to traditional lawns. However, please be advised that if purchasing from a seller other than Utopia Seeds, you may receive incorrect seeds. Creeping Thyme seeds are very small, so be prepared for a small packet.

Pros

  • Adaptive, popular and versatile dwarf ground cover
  • Can handle moderate foot traffic
  • Perennial herb that over-winters well in zones 4-9
  • Approximately 8,000 seeds can cover a large area
  • Good seed to soil contact increases germination rates
  • Can be sowed directly outdoors between May and August
  • Established plantings can be divided in March and April
  • Low maintenance ground cover
  • Excellent alternative to traditional lawns

Cons

  • – Seeds are very small and come in a small packet
  • – Fall plantings should be avoided to protect against freeze damage
  • – May receive incorrect seeds if purchasing from a seller other than Utopia Seeds

7. Outsidepride Perennial White Miniclover Lawn Clover & Ground Cover Seeds – 5 Lbs, Green

Miniclover is a type of perennial white clover that is used as an alternative to traditional lawns or as a ground cover. It grows to a height of only 4-6 inches after a few mowings and serves as a natural fertilizer because it fixes nitrogen from the air. The seeds of this clover, Trifolium repens, are much better suited for lawns than other white clovers. Additionally, Miniclover is a dwarf variety that only grows to half the height of White Dutch Clover, and its leaf heads are only 1/3 to 1/2 the size.

This microclover is ideal for those who prefer a no-mow lawn. It is a perennial that can be grown in USDA Zones 3-10. Sow 1-2 pounds of clover seeds per 1,000 square feet of lawn for optimal growth.

Pros

  • Miniclover is a natural fertilizer because it fixes nitrogen from the air
  • It is a dwarf variety that only grows to half the height of White Dutch Clover
  • This microclover is perfect for those who prefer a no-mow lawn
  • It is a perennial that can be grown in USDA Zones 3-10

Cons

  • – None found.

8. Steel Pro Max 14' Round Pool Set

The 14-foot by 48-inch round above-ground pool is an ideal choice for swimmers of all ages to enjoy during the summer season. The pool comes with a model 58388E 1,000-gallon filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover, making it a complete package for a refreshing swimming experience. The pool's steel frame is secured with the FrameLink System, which ensures remarkable strength and connection. The DuraPlus enhanced 3-play PVC liner features an elegant design that provides a support band for extra stability to the pool wall for excellent durability.

The pool is easy to assemble and disassemble, making it convenient to store during the off-season. You don't need any tools to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water. However, before purchasing the product, please check your HOA rules and regulations. It is essential to note that not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools.

Pros

  • Comes as a complete package with a filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover
  • The steel frame is held together with the FrameLink System for remarkable strength and connection
  • DuraPlus enhanced 3-play PVC liner provides extra stability to the pool wall for excellent durability
  • Easy to assemble and disassemble without any tools
  • Efficiently drains the pool water with the flow control valve

Cons

  • – Not suitable for all housing agencies due to their rules and regulations

9. Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner – 50 Feet Capacity!

The Dolphin Quantum In-ground Robotic Pool Cleaner is a lightweight and easy-to-use device that makes cleaning your pool a breeze. With a weekly scheduler, you can set the Dolphin to clean your pool automatically every day, every other day, or every third day, ensuring a consistently clean pool.

Featuring anti-tangling swivel technology, the Quantum can move freely around large residential pools up to 50 feet, providing an uninterrupted and hassle-free clean. Its PowerStream mobility allows for a constant grip on vertical surfaces, making intense wall and waterline scrubbing possible, removing tough, stuck-on dirt for an exceptionally clean swimming pool.

The Dolphin Quantum comes with fine and ultra-fine filters that provide superior filtration. Its extra-large top-loading filter basket traps leaves, dirt, and even small debris that you can't see, leaving your pool sparkling clean in just 2 hours. It is also 8 times more energy efficient than pressure and suction cleaners, allowing you to save energy with every pool cleaning.

Backed by a 2-year quality assurance, the Dolphin Quantum In-ground Robotic Pool Cleaner is a reliable and efficient device that makes pool cleaning convenient and hassle-free.

Pros

  • Weekly scheduler for automatic cleaning
  • Anti-tangling swivel technology for uninterrupted cleaning
  • PowerStream mobility for intense wall and waterline scrubbing
  • Fine and ultra-fine filters for superior filtration
  • Extra-large top-loading filter basket for trapping leaves and small debris
  • 8 times more energy efficient than pressure and suction cleaners
  • Backed by a 2-year quality assurance

Best Ground Cover For Texas FAQs

Are there any ground cover options for Texas that are ideal for high traffic areas and foot traffic?

Yes, there are several ground cover options that are perfect for high traffic areas and foot traffic in Texas. One such option is Zoysia grass, which is known for its durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. It is a warm-season grass that grows well in the hot and humid climate of Texas. Another option is Buffalo grass, which is low-maintenance and can handle heavy foot traffic. It is a native grass to Texas and can tolerate drought conditions. Another great option is Liriope, which is a hardy and low-growing perennial that can withstand foot traffic. It has attractive evergreen foliage and can thrive in both sun and shade. Finally, Mondo grass is another ground cover option that is great for high traffic areas. It is a shade-loving plant that can tolerate foot traffic and is easy to maintain. Overall, there are plenty of ground cover options available in Texas that can handle high traffic areas and foot traffic.

Can you suggest ground covers for Texas that are deer-resistant and tolerate partial shade?

Yes, there are several ground covers that are deer-resistant and can tolerate partial shade in Texas. One option is the Purple Wintercreeper, which is an evergreen ground cover that produces purple foliage and small pink flowers in the spring. It is tolerant of both shade and dry conditions and is also deer-resistant.

Another option is the Catmint, which is a low-growing perennial that produces small purple flowers and has a strong scent that deters deer. It is also drought-tolerant and can thrive in partial shade.

Creeping Phlox is another ground cover option that is deer-resistant and can tolerate partial shade. It produces a carpet of colorful flowers in the spring and early summer and is also drought-tolerant.

Other options include the Canadian Ginger, which is a shade-loving ground cover with glossy green leaves and white flowers, and the Golden Creeping Jenny, which produces bright yellow foliage and can thrive in both sun and shade.

Overall, selecting deer-resistant ground covers that can tolerate partial shade in Texas can help to maintain a beautiful and sustainable landscape.

What are some ground covers that are suitable for Texas that require minimal watering and are drought-tolerant?

Texas is known for its hot and dry weather, making it challenging to maintain a lush garden. However, there are some ground covers that are suitable for Texas and require minimal watering while being drought-tolerant. One such option is the Buffalo Grass, which is a native grass that can grow up to 6 inches tall and can withstand drought conditions. Another option is the Silver Ponyfoot, which is a low-growing plant that spreads quickly and can tolerate both heat and drought. The Blue Star Creeper is also a great option for Texas as it forms a dense mat and needs little water. The Mexican Feather Grass is another popular choice due to its graceful texture and ability to thrive in dry conditions. Lastly, the Purple Heart is a beautiful option that adds color to any garden and is drought-tolerant. These ground covers are not only low maintenance but also add beauty to the garden while conserving water.

What are some native ground cover options for Texas that are low maintenance and provide erosion control?

There are several native ground cover options for Texas that require low maintenance and provide erosion control. These plants are ideal for those who want to maintain a natural landscape while reducing the need for excessive upkeep. One popular option is buffalo grass, which is drought-tolerant and can withstand heavy foot traffic. Another option is blue grama grass, which is also drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soil conditions. For areas with partial shade, cedar sedge or horseherb can be used. These plants require little water and can spread quickly, making them effective for erosion control. Other native options include prairie verbena, blackfoot daisy, and silver ponyfoot. When selecting native ground cover options, it's important to consider the specific growing conditions of the area, as some plants may not thrive in certain soil or sunlight conditions. By choosing low maintenance native ground cover options, homeowners can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape while reducing the need for excessive upkeep.

What are the best ground cover plants for Texas that can withstand extreme heat and drought?

Texas is known for its hot and dry climate, which can make it challenging to grow plants. However, there are several ground cover plants that can withstand extreme heat and drought in Texas. One such plant is the Texas sedge, which is a native grass that is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance. Another great option is the silver ponyfoot, a low-growing plant with silver leaves that can tolerate both heat and drought.

Other plants that are suitable for Texas include the trailing lantana, which produces beautiful flowers throughout the summer, and the purple heart, a ground cover that can thrive in hot and dry conditions. If you're looking for a plant that can add color to your garden, consider the firecracker plant, which produces bright red flowers throughout the summer.

When choosing ground cover plants for Texas, it's important to select varieties that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. You can consult with a local nursery or gardening expert to help you choose the best plants for your specific location. With the right plants, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that can thrive in even the harshest Texas conditions.

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