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Q: Is there a ground cover that will let other flowers, such as bulb flowers like tulips or hyacinths, come up through it after it's established? I'd like to line my walk with a flowering ground cover, with some other flowers as accents. I wanted to use vinca (dark evergreen, not the variegated variety), but I've heard that it's so strong that it will smother any bulbs. Is this true, and if so, is there another ground cover that would allow this? Or will any ground cover be too thick?
Thanks!
KParke
A: KParke,
I see no reason why you can't plant vinca and bulb varieties together. Vinca is shallow rooted and able to out compete weeds but shouldn't interfere with deeper-rooted bulbs or shrubs, especially early-blooming bulbs like hyacinths or tulips. If vinca starts to outgrow its space, shear it back hard in early spring. It prefers partial to full shade, so I'm assuming those are the conditions near your walk.
Daffodils are another bulb variety that would make beautiful accents with vinca's dark green, shiny leaves. Depending on your soil and light conditions, and your color preferences, you have quite a few options for ground cover. For example, several varieties of both hosta and sedum offer interesting foliage as well as colorful blooms. I've also seen vinca growing along walkways where shepard hooks and hanging baskets were used as accents. Baskets require a bit more maintenance, but also offer you the ability to change accents at will.
About The Author: Ellen Brown is our Green Living and Gardening Expert. Click here to ask Ellen a question! Ellen Brown is an environmental writer and photographer and the owner of Sustainable Media, an environmental media company that specializes in helping businesses and organizations promote eco-friendly products and services. Contact her on the web at http://www.sustainable-media.com
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