For example, ground covers control erosion when planted on slopes or banks. They are effective lawn substitutes in areas too shady to support the growth of grasses. These low-growing plants become attractive accents for areas too narrow to accommodate shrubs. Wide-spreading ground covers engulf large areas in carpets of attractive foliage. Ground covers eliminate costly and time-consuming maintenance such as mowing, edging and trimming.
English ivy is a practical ground cover for use in large shaded areas.
Ground covers are also valued for aesthetic reasons. They soften harsh architectural lines of buildings and parking lots. They provide contrast with foliage, form and flowers. When skillfully interplanted with trees and shrubs, ground covers impart a textural balance to the planting. Ground covers also give unity to the landscape by tying together all the elements of the planting.