Our goal at Pretty is to help you make all things lovely–your home, yourself, your gifts, and your garden. But nothing ruins a pretty garden like weeds. If you’ve ever waged war against stubborn weeds, you know the battle can feel endless. But the prettiest way to win? Ground covers. These low-growing plants don’t just smother weeds — they also add color, texture, and a polished look to your landscape. Whether you want a carpet of blooms, lush greenery, or something that thrives in tricky spots, the right ground cover can transform your garden with less effort than you think. Courtesy of Courtney Sixx, Founder and Co-Designer of Bouquet Box, here are six of our favorite options for beauty that works as hard as you do.

Ground Covers: Plants to Beat the Weeds

Low-growing plants that spread quickly to form a dense cover, ground covers are ideal for areas where grass is difficult to grow or maintain.

Benefits of Ground Covers

These plants help prevent soil erosion, reduce weed growth, and add aesthetic value to landscapes. They also tend to be low-maintenance and drought-resistant.

Which Ground Cover To Choose?

The USDA divides the United States into zones so that you’ll have a better idea of what grows in your area. Find your zone on a map by visiting tps://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/

Creeping Phlox Ground Cover for Zones 3–9

For zones 3-9, Courtney recommends this thick, flowering cover. It grows best in full sun to partial shade.

Mazus Reptans for Shady Gardens

Thriving in zones 4-9, Mazus, aka “Creeping Mazus,” maintains its lovely green leaves even into the fall. Mazus prefers moist soil and spreads rapidly.

Ajuga Ground Cover for Color and Erosion Control

This deep-purple flowering plant prevents soil erosion in Zones 3-10 and “adds charm to any garden,” Courtney says.