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Bugleflower
Bugleflower (Ajuga reptans) is a low-growing plant that spreads quickly and
makes a soft, thick mat. If left to grow, it can reach
heights of 2" to 6" (depending on the variety),
and will produce beautiful white, purple or blue flowers.
There are several leaf colors available, including purple,
pink and variegated varieties. So, if you're in the mood
for something really funky, why not plant a purple lawn?
Bugleflower will grow in sunny or shady areas and can
be mowed just like grass, although you will need to do
so less often. |
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Bugleflower
(Ajuga reptans) |
White Clover*
The most cost-effective choice is white clover (Trifolium
repens), sometimes known as Dutch clover, which creates
a thick green carpet-like ground cover. Many people spend a
lot of time and resources trying to eradicate clover from their
lawns, but it really is a useful plant. It belongs to the legume
family and these plants are natural hosts to a kind of bacteria
that fixes nitrogen out of the air. Therefore, by over seeding
your grass lawn with clover, you get a cost-effective source
of fertilizer.
Since clover has a longer root than lawn grass, it's more drought
tolerant. In fact, you shouldn't have to water it at all. In
times of extreme drought, clover will simply go partially dormant
and cease to grow, whereas lawn grass will usually turn brown
and crispy.
Clover doesn't need to be mowed as often as grass and if you
let it reach its full height, usually around 4" to 6",
it will produce attractive and fragrant flowers. It also grows
much better than grass does in compacted soil, so you can say
goodbye to that aerator rental you've been thinking about. One
word of caution though, clover can be quite slippery when damp
or wet.
*Editor's Note: Please note, under certain circumstances,
white clover can cause problems with toxicity in animals, particularly
livestock. (Government of Canada Poisonous Plants Information
System: www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/poison) |
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