What Not To Do When Growing Silver Carpet As A Grass Alternative

For hundreds of years, Americans have used grass in their landscapes to create a lawn. While the practice used to be a sign of wealth, it is now commonplace in suburbia and beyond. But now, many are turning away from traditional grass to not only bring more interest to their landscapes but also decrease maintenance, incorporate native plants, and foster more healthy ecosystems. One beautiful grass alternative to consider for your lawn is silver carpet (Dymondia margaretae), a drought-resistant silver and green ground cover that grows little yellow flowers and will never require mowing. Sounds perfect, right? Well, not quite. If you decide to go this route, there are some location factors to consider and practices you want to avoid.

If you love the look of silver carpet and feel like it's the best grass alternative for your lawn, consider your location on the map. This South African native ground cover will die in heavy frost, so if you live in a place that freezes each year or regularly dips below 28 degrees Fahrenheit, don't choose silver carpet. However, if you live in USDA zones 9b through 11, this lovely lawn substitute could be perfect.

Before adding silver carpet as a durable grass alternative, think about its location in your yard. Don't add silver carpet to a place that tends to hold water. While this ground cover does need regular watering to establish itself, it prefers well-drained soil. Also, the last place you want to plant this evergreen ground cover is in complete shade. Silver carpet requires full sun, where it will thrive. There are plenty of other ground cover plants you should grow instead of grass that will love a spot under your trees. That said, silver carpet will tolerate some light shade and still be okay.

Ask yourself how much foot traffic your lawn gets. Do you have pets or children who love to romp in the grass? Don't add silver carpet to that area — unless you're willing to add a walkway through the area for people to use. You could also just find an undisturbed or hardly trampled-upon area to add this hardy plant.

Assuming you already have this lovely grass alternative growing in just the right spot, there are some key care issues you want to adhere to and others you must avoid to keep your silver carpet happy. Be careful not to overwater these plants, as that could lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. That said, underwatering silver carpet also has its consequences — wilting or dry leaves. Water only as needed. 

When planting, don't crowd silver carpet. Space the plants at least 12 inches apart. You want to make sure each plant gets ample sunlight and airflow. And be patient. Silver carpet can take some time to spread, so if you have a large area you need to cover right away, this plant might not be for you.