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Groundcovers #868892

Asked May 17, 2024, 1:06 PM EDT

Please recommend perennial groundcovers that to well in clay soil with little maintenance.

Clackamas County Oregon

Expert Response

There are so many possibilities, I can’t really tell you what to choose. I found a few Extension Service publications on groundcovers, such as this one from WSU. Here are some native plant gardening publications from OSU, which will include some groundcovers.
If you want some ideas from us based on your landscape, provide a couple photos from different angles and describe the drainage, irrigation and sun exposure. Other things, like foot traffic and root competition from neighboring trees and shrubs is helpful too. Also, what does “maintenance” mean to you? Are you wanting no weeds? No watering? Mowing? There isn’t, realistically, a no-maintenance landscape.
The other suggestion I have is to visit plant nurseries with photos of your area on your phone. Talk with knowledgeable staff so they can make recommendations based on plants they sell. Many nurseries offer natives and there are specialty native plant nurseries also. It can be very frustrating to make plant selections from an online list and then find your favorites are not available to purchase anywhere.

Thanks for your response.
On Sat, May 18, 2024 at 11:33 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 19, 2024, 12:47 PM EDT

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