How to Grow Lichen and Native Groundcovers
Lichen and Native Groundcovers
Various species (Lichen: Division Ascomycota & Basidiomycota; Groundcovers: Multiple families)
groundcoverLichens are symbiotic organisms combining fungi and algae or cyanobacteria, while native groundcovers are low-growing perennial plants adapted to local ecosystems. Together they create resilient, low-maintenance living carpets that suppress weeds, prevent erosion, and support local wildlife. These are among the most sustainable landscaping options available.
When should you plant Lichen and Native Groundcovers in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Lichen and Native Groundcovers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lichen and Native 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 Lichen and Native Groundcovers
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lichen and Native Groundcovers dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by region; native groundcovers thrive in their native zones; lichens adapt to virtually all zones
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Get my Lichen and Native Groundcovers timeline →Growth Stages
Colonization/Establishment
1-2 years for groundcovers; 2-5+ years for visible lichen coverageLichens slowly establish on rock or soil surfaces; groundcover plugs develop root systems and begin vegetative spread
Keep groundcovers consistently moist; avoid foot traffic; do not disturb lichen surfaces; allow 1-2 years for full establishment
Vegetative Spread
Ongoing for 2-5+ years until full coverageGroundcovers expand outward through rhizomes, stolons, or layering; lichens grow incrementally, becoming more visible and covering more area
Minimal watering after establishment; remove competing weeds manually; do not fertilize heavily; maintain loose soil structure
Mature Coverage
Indefinite; maintains for decades with minimal careGroundcovers form dense, continuous carpet; lichens reach visible maturity with distinctive colors and textures
Occasional light raking to remove debris; resist urge to rake/disturb lichen; minimal intervention required; monitor for invasive species
Reproduction
Seasonal flowering for groundcovers; continuous for lichenGroundcovers may flower and produce seed (species-dependent); lichens reproduce via spores and vegetative fragments
Allow flowers to mature; avoid pesticides; protect from disturbance to support lichen reproduction
Long-term Maintenance
IndefiniteEstablished plantings require minimal care; lichens continue slow growth and provide ecological benefits indefinitely
Remove invasive species; avoid heavy foot traffic; do not use herbicides or fungicides; monitor for pests only if problematic
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand in cool mornings; encourage natural predators; use beer traps in severe cases
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Hand-pull; use targeted herbicide on cut surfaces; never allow seeding; monitor annually
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Establish clear pathways; install stepping stones; restrict access to sensitive areas; provide alternative routes
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Improve drainage if problematic; allow as part of ecosystem; thin only if smothering groundcover
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Reduce fertilizer input; encourage distance from roadways; plant in areas with low air pollution
Uses
Pollinator and Habitat Support
WildlifeNative groundcovers provide nectar and pollen for insects; low-growing varieties create shelter for ground-nesting bees and beneficial arthropods. Lichens provide critical food for elk, reindeer, and invertebrates. [source]
Erosion Control and Soil Stabilization
HouseholdRoot systems prevent soil erosion on slopes and banks; reduce runoff and improve water infiltration. Lichen and groundcover combination stabilizes fragile slopes without need for erosion matting. [source]
Air Quality Monitoring and Improvement
EcologicalLichens serve as bioindicators of air pollution and improve air quality by absorbing airborne particulates. They capture and store nitrogen, enriching poor soils. [source]
Water Management and Stormwater Reduction
HouseholdGroundcovers reduce stormwater runoff by 50-70% compared to bare soil and turf; improve groundwater recharge. Reduce cooling costs and urban heat island effect. [source]
Traditional and Ethnobotanical Uses
MedicinalVarious native groundcovers have traditional medicinal uses (e.g., wintergreen oil for topical pain relief). Lichens produce unique compounds studied for antimicrobial properties; used in traditional dyes. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Lichens and groundcovers are not typically harvested; maintain by light raking to remove dead debris (minimal disturbance); prune groundcovers only if encroaching on desired plants; never harvest wild lichen for commercial purposes
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lichens are among Earth's oldest living organisms—some colonies are over 4,500 years old, making them older than bristlecone pines. A single lichen grows only about 1 mm per year, yet some cover thousands of acres.
- 🌱 Lichens are nature's air quality sensors; their absence indicates severe air pollution. Conversely, healthy lichen diversity indicates excellent air quality—they've been used to map pollution zones in industrial cities.
- 🌱 Native groundcovers can reduce lawn maintenance time by 80% compared to traditional turf, requiring no mowing, minimal fertilizer, and minimal water once established while supporting 5-10x more insect and wildlife species.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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