How to Grow Desert-adapted groundcovers
Wikimedia Commons
Desert-adapted groundcovers
Various species (e.g., Delosperma spp., Dymondia margaretae, Aptenia cordifolia)
groundcoverDesert-adapted groundcovers are low-growing, drought-tolerant plants that spread horizontally to cover soil, suppress weeds, and reduce water needs in arid landscapes. These hardy plants thrive in hot, dry conditions with minimal water and maintenance once established. They're ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and other water-wise landscape applications.
When should you plant Desert-adapted groundcovers in your zone?
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Example Desert-adapted groundcovers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Desert-adapted groundcovers
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Desert-adapted groundcovers
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Desert-adapted groundcovers dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 5-11; most thrive in zones 8-10
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Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung transplants or seedlings are small and fragile with minimal root systems
Water lightly but consistently for 4-8 weeks. Mulch lightly with gravel (not organic mulch, which retains moisture). Protect from extreme heat and foot traffic. Remove weeds competing for resources.
Vegetative Growth
2-6 monthsPlant develops runner stems or spreading rosettes; foliage expands horizontally across soil
Gradually reduce watering frequency as roots deepen. Space plants appropriately to allow for spreading. Remove any winter-damaged stems in spring. Weed competition declines as coverage increases.
Flowering
4-8 weeksMany desert groundcovers produce colorful flowers (pink, yellow, purple, red, white) above foliage
Blooms appear in spring or early summer depending on species. No special care needed; flowers attract pollinators. Deadheading is optional but can encourage more blooms in some species.
Full Coverage
Year-round (1+ years to achieve full coverage)Mat fully carpets intended area with dense foliage; minimal weeds visible; plants interconnected
Virtually maintenance-free once established. Drought-tolerant; no supplemental watering needed in most climates. Light pruning to remove dead wood in early spring. Monitor for occasional pest issues.
Winter Dormancy
2-4 months (depending on zone)In cooler zones, foliage may brown, yellow, or thin as growth slows; some evergreen species persist
Stop watering entirely or reduce to minimal levels. Do not fertilize. Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring after danger of frost passes. Avoid foot traffic on frozen plants.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap; provide adequate air circulation; rarely a serious issue in established plantings
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Remove by hand; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure well-draining soil to reduce moisture-related susceptibility
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; do not mulch with organic material that retains moisture; replant in amended soil if severe
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and
(in moister microclimates)
Remove debris where pests hide; use copper tape barriers; hand-pick; dryer conditions generally prevent problems
Uses
Erosion control and soil stabilization
HouseholdDense, spreading root systems and low-growing foliage stabilize slopes, reduce erosion in arid environments, and minimize soil disturbance. These plants are particularly valuable for preventing dust and runoff on disturbed or exposed areas. [source]
Water conservation and xeriscaping
HouseholdDesert groundcovers require minimal to no supplemental water once established, significantly reducing landscape irrigation needs and water bills. They are cornerstone plants in drought-resistant landscape design and sustainable gardening. [source]
Pollinator and wildlife habitat
WildlifeColorful spring flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while providing nectar and pollen sources. The dense foliage offers shelter for ground-nesting bees, beneficial insects, and small mammals. [source]
Aesthetic landscaping and weed suppression
HouseholdDiverse colors, textures, and flower displays create attractive, low-maintenance landscape features while dense coverage naturally suppresses weeds and reduces overall garden maintenance demands. [source]
Container gardening and rock garden displays
CraftMany desert groundcovers are perfectly suited to shallow containers, troughs, alpine pots, and rock gardens, allowing gardeners in any climate to enjoy these hardy plants indoors or on patios with proper drainage. [source]
Harvest Tips
Groundcovers are not harvested for food; however, cuttings can be propagated in spring or early summer by taking 2-3 inch stems, allowing to callus 1-2 days, then planting in well-draining soil. Established plants can be divided in spring for transplanting to new areas.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Desert groundcovers like ice plant (Delosperma) have developed specialized succulent leaves that store water, allowing them to survive months without rain. Some can lose 80% of their water content and recover within days of precipitation.
- 🌱 Many desert groundcover species are native to extreme environments such as the Namib Desert (Dymondia margaretae from Namibia) and South African semi-arid regions, where they evolved alongside grazing animals and severe drought conditions.
- 🌱 Desert groundcovers can reduce surface soil temperature by up to 10-15°F compared to bare soil or hardscape, providing microclimate benefits to nearby plants while also reducing heat reflected into surrounding areas.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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