Don't limit yourself to lawn. Many attractive low-growing groundcovers are available, and they make good alternatives in spots too shady for grass. When you first install the groundcover of choice, you'll need to weed and water frequently. Once established, though, these plants need very little maintenance. Periwinkle, or vinca (figure A), is a trailing perennial that requires partial or full shade and moderate water. It produces star-shaped blue or violet flowers in the spring and early summer. Vinca is easily kept low by mowing in the early spring before active growth begins. (Note: Vinca is extremely invasive and must be kept in check at its borders if you don't want it to take over.) Ajuga (figure B), a perennial, is available in several foliage colors and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. Ajuga may migrate to your lawn unless contained. It produces flower spikes in spring and summer. Pachysandra (figure C) is a perennial groundcover that will thrive in light or heavy shade. It requires regular water and if properly cared for, will reward you with many white alyssum-type blossoms in summer. These plants prefer a slightly acid soil. Pachysandra is a good alternative to lawn. English ivy (Hedera helix) cultivar 'Thorndale' (figure D) is hardy in northern climates. Ivy requires full sun or, in hot climates, partial shade. ( Note: English ivy is extremely invasive and if uncontrolled will form "ivy deserts" that choke out native vegetation and grow up trees. It is considered a serious problem by the California Exotic Pest Plant Council.)
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