Keep in mind while planning that ground covers also will conceal exposed tree roots that could otherwise make it difficult to mow under some trees. Both of these ground covers are reliable, easy to grow and relatively fast spreading. Monkey grass, although not a true grass, looks a lot like a grass and will tolerate light traffic. Asian jasmine requires more maintenance, since it is a running vine that must be edged and cut back periodically to keep it looking neat. But it grows equally well in sun or shade - making it ideal for planting areas that include sun as well as shade.
Ground covers provide variation in plant height, texture and color in the landscape.
But they aren't the only plants you could consider. Many plants thrive in partially shaded to shady conditions - defined as two to four hours of direct sun during the day. In fact, gardening in a shady area provides a chance to grow a wide variety of beautiful plants. Plus, gardens in shady areas often are easier to maintain, since there generally are fewer weed problems. For colorful bedding plants suitable for shady areas, try impatiens, coleus, wax begonia, browallia, pentas, salvias, caladium and torenia.