Some newer herbicides are highly selective for certain weeds, particularly grasses, and can be used safely on several groundcover species. Read product labels carefully, or consult with your local Cooperative Extension Service office, to choose appropriate materials for a given groundcover and weed combination, even after plants are established. New plantings will need weekly irrigation until well established. Generally, an inch of water applied weekly will do. Dry slopes and areas of severe competition may need watering during any dry periods.
Ground covers benefit from yearly fertilization.
Be sure to water after fertilizing. Some ground covers are improved by occasional shearing. All Euonymus species can be clipped at a 4 to 6 inch height. A rotary mower with special high wheels is ideal. Shrubs such as junipers can be pruned in the manner appropriate to more upright shrubs.