Perennial Ground Covers

Ground covers take on new meaning in this enlightening book designed to make gardeners' work easier. Hostas, stonecrops, smaller rhododendrons, prayer plants, pyracanthas, box huckleberry, hellebores, daylilies, grasses, alpine willows, and climbing vines (minus their support) are just some of David MacKenzie's imaginative suggestions. Written in an accessible style by a distinguished grower of ground covers, it includes information on selecting, planting, maintaining, and propagating these plants. There are chapters on using native plants, ferns, ornamental grasses, and variegated ground covers, and on selecting the right plant for the terrain, for instance: fire-resistant plants for use in public areas where cigarettes are likely to be tossed; plants that will survive under black walnuts with their allelopathic substance; ground covers suitable for erosion-prone hillsides or where mowing is difficult; and those with beautiful foliage, color, or form. Ground cover solutions for any need can be found in the alphabetical listings of thousands of reliable, low-maintenance varieties, illustrated with more than 300 color photos.